What if English Learners wrote the Dictionary?

Have You Ever Wondered… What If You Wrote the Dictionary?

Most English learners use dictionaries every day. They check the meaning of words, study pronunciation, and explore examples. But have you ever thought: What if English learners like me wrote the dictionary?

Let’s imagine that. What would change? Would the words be simpler? More fun? More useful? Let’s explore this creative idea and discover what it tells us about learning English.

The Learner’s Dictionary Dream. Image by Englishconv

1. Definitions Would Be Simpler (And Funnier!)

Many English dictionary definitions are full of formal words and grammar. They can be hard to understand, even for native speakers!

Traditional Dictionary:

Procrastinate: to delay doing something that you should do, usually because you do not want to do it.

Learner Dictionary (Maybe):

Procrastinate: to say "I'll do it tomorrow" every day.

English learners often explain words using real-life situations. This makes the meaning easier to remember—and a little funnier too!

2. More Real-Life Examples

English learners often learn best through examples, not just definitions. If learners wrote the dictionary, it would be full of everyday situations and useful phrases.

Example:
Word: Awkward
Learner-style example:

"It was awkward when I said 'Good night' instead of 'Good morning' to my boss!"

These examples connect to real experiences, making new vocabulary more relatable.

3. New Words Would Be Added

English learners sometimes invent their own words or use words in creative ways. If they wrote the dictionary, we might see entries like:

• Confusement (n.): A mix of confusion and embarrassment during English class.

• Wordnesia (n.): When you forget a word you definitely know, right when you need it.

• Grammarectomy (n.): What happens when grammar disappears during speaking practice.

These aren’t “official” words—but they express real learner experiences!

4. Pronunciation Help Would Be Personal

Instead of just using phonetic symbols, learner-written dictionaries might include tips like:

• “Comfortable”: Just say "comf-ta-bul"—skip a few sounds!

• “February”: It’s okay if you say “Feb-yoo-airy.” Most native speakers do, too!

These shortcuts and advice can help other learners feel more confident and relaxed when speaking.

5. Grammar Notes Would Be Friendly

Grammar in learner dictionaries might feel more like advice from a friend, not rules from a textbook.

Standard Note:

Use present perfect for actions that happened at an unspecified time.

Learner Note:

Use present perfect when the time is not clear or not important. If you say “I have eaten,” it doesn’t matter when—only that you are not hungry now!

Final Thought: Everyone Has Something to Teach

If English learners wrote the dictionary, it would be full of personality, real-life stories, and practical advice. And maybe that’s what language is really about—communication, not perfection.

So, the next time you learn a new word, ask yourself:

• How would I explain this in my dictionary?

• What example would I give?

• What funny memory or situation is connected to this word?

By thinking like this, you not only remember vocabulary better—you also become an active part of the language.

Because English isn’t just made by native speakers. It’s made by everyone who uses it. Including you.

Did You Enjoy This Article?
Try this activity: Choose 3 new words you’ve learned recently and write your own dictionary entries for them—definitions, examples, tips, or even drawings!