MS WORD DICTIONARY SUCKS

Why is Microsoft Word’s built-in dictionary so lame? Everybody has known this for years and remarks about it anecdotally.

For example, in our last post (Capitalizing Internet), the MSW dictionary didn’t recognize the following as legit words in the English language:

• Google
• Permissivist

How about this one?

• Blogged

Sure, we can all customize our own dictionaries, but that’s really just an invitation to chaos.

To be fair, dictionaries embedded in word processing programs have always been weak. But just because it’s been a chronic problem for two decades doesn’t mean we have to endure it forever.

In our Web 2.0 world, why can’t MSW’s dictionary link to a reputable online source? User-generated dictionaries could still be an adjunct to the main, authoritative source.

As personal publishing explodes, online writers everywhere need the proper tools to create credible content. The alternative is an increasing babelization of the English language.

We suggest the good folks in Redmond do all writers everywhere a big favor and fix their dictionary once and for all by hooking up with the Oxford English Dictionary or another recognized authority.