Dictionary and Glossary are two terms that are often confused due to the appearing similarity between their meanings. Strictly speaking, there is some difference between the two words. Dictionary is a compilation of words and their meanings and usages. It is highly useful for the student and the writer alike. On the other hand, a glossary is nothing but a word list. It is a list of words that appear in a particular chapter or a lesson. This is the main difference between the two words, namely, dictionary and glossary.
Key Takeaways
- A dictionary is a compilation of words, their meanings, and usages, while a glossary is a list of words that appear in a particular chapter or lesson.
- A glossary is typically added at the end of a chapter or lesson to facilitate understanding of difficult words, while a dictionary is a broader resource that provides information on various aspects of language such as usage, gender, number, parts of speech, and tense.
- The primary purpose of a glossary is to convey the meanings of difficult words in a specific context, while a dictionary is highly recommended for students and writers for general language understanding and usage.
