If the dictionary spelled a word wrong, how would we know?

Answer 1

Use another dictionary to find out :P.

Answer 2

Interesting question! We usually say "The" dictionary, as if there was only one, but of course that's not the case. And it is true that they don't always agree on the spelling or even the definition of a word. Usually, the more recent one would be the best pick, but sometimes it's the difference between English and American. My own choice is to take the one that makes the most sense to me, and be prepared to edit without complaint if a spell-checker or an editor disagrees. Also, there are variants, and a good dictionary will show you both. I may prefer the main one, and my boss the secondary one. Guess whose choice prevails?

Answer 3

Dictionaries reflect common usage, as definitions and pronunciations change, so do the the dictionaries. Compare one from the 20's with one from today, "gay" used to mean "happy"; "queer" used to mean "odd"; "contact" used to be a noun, the verb form was "make contact with"; you used to make a "check" on a paper and write a "cheque" from your bank, still do in Europe; the list is virtually endless. Semantics. the lexicographical discipline which clarifies word meaning and makes accurate expression of ideas possible is now in disrepute. "That's just a matter of semantics" has become the standard response when ever someone makes a false statement. The difference between "wife" and "whore" is a matter of semantics, as is the difference between "lover" and "rapist", the difference between "Christian" and "Nazi", even the difference between "guilt" and "innocence". People use words for the way they sound with no thought for what they might actually mean, not mention their total disregard for the distinction between connotations and denotations. Without clear definitions of what is accurate vocabulary, grammar, and spelling, there is no English, or any other kind of language. That is why 1 in 4 of U.S. High school graduates are rated functionally illiterate and why England will not accept a U.S. High School diploma as qualification to enter a University.

Answer 4

Who exactly is the spelling police who wrote the dictionary? I would guess that if a word is spelled incorrectly that we would assume that the spelling was correct. Who is to say that anything in the dictionary is spelled properly?

Answer 5

We would look it up in an older dictionary. Have a nice day Vern.

Answer 6

if a word in the dictionary really isn't a word, how would we know?

Answer 7

If they all spelled the word wrong, then they would be right. They are by definition, the standard.

Answer 8

go on line dictionary

Answer 9

ask your teacher
but then he'd say "look it up in the dictionary"
and that's no fun

Answer 10

Common sense.