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ICT Skills 2

Do you know how to change the default user dictionary? (12/24)

Yes

Find out

To check the spelling, Word uses a default dictionary that can be changed. If you want to use a new dictionary which is included in the list of dictionaries used by Word you need to:

  • Go to the Tools menu

  • Click Options

  • Select the Spelling & Grammar tab

  • Click Custom Dictionaries

  • In the Dictionary list box, select the dictionary to be used

  • Click the dictionary name for changing the default dictionary for all languages. In case the list includes dictionaries for more than one language, click the dictionary name under All languages
  • For changing the default dictionary for a specific language, click the dictionary name under the language heading
  • Finally click Change Default

From now on Word will use the default custom dictionary you specified.

Using an external dictionary

You can also use a custom dictionary which does not belong to Word - a so called "third-party" dictionary. The dictionary must be already installed on your computer in order to add it in the Word list of dictionaries.

  • Click Options
  • Select the Spelling & Grammar tab
  • Click Custom Dictionaries and then Add
  • Locate the folder with the custom dictionary you want
  • Double-click the dictionary file
  • To set this dictionary as the default dictionary click the dictionary name and then Change Default
  • Finally activate the custom dictionary in the Tools menu

Why is this information important for translators and translation teachers?-
When working with several languages, translators must know how to change the default dictionary of Word in order to be able to spell check with the appropriate dictionary.

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