this post was submitted on 12 Aug 2025
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oh man, asking a kid in this era to look something up in the dictionary is quite the challenge.
In this book? why? why not just look it up online?
BECAUSE GODDAMNIT REASONS AND SHIT
The dictionary is now online and often includes an audio recording of the word or phrase of interest. Online is not always better than physical, but this is one of the cases where it is likely better. If you're suggesting a less convenient method of doing something, it makes sense to request a reason. In this case I have to agree with the kids.
Knowing the international phonetic alphabet is still sometimes useful, when you have a word without an audio pronunciation or trying to transcribe a particular pronunciation
reasons and shit: Today's generation - fortunately in many ways - hasn't developed the skills needed to look something up. While you can mirror wikipedia and we generally always have access mostly - it's still a valuable skill. ESPECIALLY now that AI is crufting up search results rapidly.
Now, if you're visiting a dedicated dictionary site, well then you just have to deal with ads and cruft. None of that in Websters dead tree edition.
Do these always justify a trip to the bookshelf? Nah. But it is a useful thing to do a few times a month so they have experience seeking sources of information that aren't digital.