Descriptionary

The "Descriptionary" at first scanning seemed to be a useful addition to my reference books on words. However, my experience in referring to it for actual information has been one of frustration and discouragement in using this book as an additional word reference. Partly, this is due to the limited number of subject/topic categories (21), such as Architecture and Music, which, of course, means that a great many subject areas are outside of the scope of many of my searches for words. And partly, the selection of words and terms included in the various categories seem to be limited to those that are used in the mass media. In fact, the author includes an excellent list of 1,050 words and terms that are frequently used in the news media show more and by public speakers. He states "These are words and terms every literate person should know, to sharpen both comprehension and communication skills."

In addition to the limitations of the number of categories, the "Descriptionary" has limited usability when searching for specific words and terms that either one can't recall or that one simply doesn't know, e.g., "what is the word/term used to describe the actions of climbers who descend along the sides of tall buildings or mountains in long leaps?". To find that word, one first needs to select one of the 21 categories available. In this instance, the closest is the "Sports" category in which "Mountaineering," appears to be the nearest match to this inquiry. Once there one needs to read the definitions of various words until locating the definition that describes the action, which in this case, is "rappel".

My use of this reference will be limited to reading those listed categories in which I have had minimal exposure, such as "Military" and "Law". In fact, this approach may be what the author had in mind when he undertook this project. show less

A thought provoking addiiton to your reference collection. A dictionary organized by topic rather than alphabetical. A good resource for writers of all sorts.

Terms to help the writer describe. Chapters are categories such as: Animals and Insects, Architecture, Art, Clothing, etc. The last chapter is 1,050 Words and Expressions You Should Know. I think I'll start with this.

A subject organized dictionary.