* Usage: Dictionaries are primarily about recording and documenting the words that people actually use. If a word is used frequently enough in a language, it's likely to be included.
* Meaning: A word needs to have a clear and established meaning to be included in a dictionary. If it's used inconsistently or its meaning is unclear, it might not be included.
* History: Dictionaries often include words that are historically significant or reflect the evolution of a language, even if they are no longer in common use.
* Variety: Dictionaries aim to provide a comprehensive representation of the language, including words from various fields, dialects, and levels of formality.
* Preservation: Dictionaries act as a record of a language at a particular point in time, helping us understand how language has changed and preserving words that might otherwise be lost.
Important Note:
* Not all dictionaries are the same. Some focus on specific fields, dialects, or time periods. This means that the criteria for inclusion can vary depending on the dictionary's purpose.
* New words are constantly being added to dictionaries. As language evolves, dictionaries need to be updated to reflect these changes.
So, a word is likely to be in a dictionary if it's commonly used, has a clear meaning, is historically significant, and contributes to the overall representation of the language.