When it comes to language and linguistics, two names stand out among the rest: Oxford and Cambridge. For centuries, these two prestigious institutions have been at the forefront of language education, research, and documentation. Their dictionaries, in particular, are considered the gold standard for language learners, writers, and scholars around the world. But the question remains: which one is better, the Oxford Dictionary or the Cambridge Dictionary?
History And Heritage
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of language and lexicography, let’s take a step back and appreciate the rich history and heritage behind these two institutions.
The University of Oxford, founded in the 12th century, is one of the oldest universities in the world. Its dictionary, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), was first published in 1884 and has since become the definitive record of the English language. With over 170 years of research and documentation, the OED is considered the most comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of its kind.
On the other hand, the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is another ancient institution with a strong tradition of scholarship and research. The Cambridge Dictionary, first published in 1995, is a more recent addition to the world of lexicography, but it has quickly gained a reputation for its accuracy, clarity, and user-friendliness.
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED)
So, what makes the OED so special? For starters, its sheer scope and scale are unmatched. With over 170,000 entries, the OED is a behemoth of a dictionary that covers the English language from its earliest recorded roots to the present day. The dictionary’s coverage is so comprehensive that it includes:
- Every word in current use, from obscure technical terms to everyday colloquialisms
- Historical words and senses, tracing the evolution of the English language over time
- Quotations from literature and other sources, providing context and illustration for each entry
- Etymologies and pronunciation guides, helping users understand the origins and sounds of each word
The OED’s authority and prestige are unquestionable, but its greatest strength lies in its meticulous research and documentation. The dictionary’s editors are renowned linguists and scholars who have spent decades studying the English language, and their expertise shows in every entry.
A snippet from the OED
To give you a flavor of the OED’s style and content, here’s an entry for the word “gobemouche”:
“gobemouche, n.
Etymology: < French gobemouche, f. gob(i)er to gape, stare foolsihly + mouche fly, literally one who is caught by the bait of a fly.
A person who is easily deceived or manipulated; a dupe.
1904 F. T. jane North Sea iii. 123 The gobemouche, the born gambler, and the poor wight who has lost his all.”
The Cambridge Dictionary
While the OED is an exhaustive record of the English language, the Cambridge Dictionary takes a more focused approach to language documentation. Its scope is narrower, but its coverage is no less impressive.
The Cambridge Dictionary is designed for language learners, teachers, and professionals who need a reliable and user-friendly reference guide. With over 140,000 entries, the dictionary covers:
- Everyday vocabulary, with clear definitions and examples
- Technical and specialized terms, including business, science, and technology
- Colloquialisms and idioms, with explanations and context
- Audio pronunciation guides, helping users master the sounds of English words
The Cambridge Dictionary is praised for its clarity, concision, and accessibility. Its editors are experienced linguists and language teachers who have crafted a dictionary that is both informative and easy to use.
A snippet from the Cambridge Dictionary
Here’s an entry for the word “vlog”:
“vlog, n.
[verb logging]
A type of blog that consists of videos rather than written entries, often used to record and share personal experiences, thoughts, and opinions.
Example sentences:
- She started a vlog to document her travels around the world.
- The vlog has become a popular way for people to share their daily lives with others.”
Comparison Time
Now that we’ve explored the features and strengths of both dictionaries, it’s time to compare them. Here are some key differences:
- Scope and coverage: The OED is a more comprehensive dictionary, covering the entire history of the English language, while the Cambridge Dictionary focuses on contemporary language use and everyday vocabulary.
- Target audience: The OED is geared towards scholars, researchers, and language enthusiasts, while the Cambridge Dictionary is designed for language learners, teachers, and professionals.
- Writing style and tone: The OED is known for its formal, academic tone, while the Cambridge Dictionary is more conversational and accessible.
| Feature | Oxford English Dictionary | Cambridge Dictionary |
|---|---|---|
| Scope and coverage | Comprehensive, covering entire history of English language | Focused on contemporary language use and everyday vocabulary |
| Target audience | Scholars, researchers, language enthusiasts | Language learners, teachers, professionals |
| Writing style and tone | Formal, academic | Conversational, accessible |
The Verdict
So, which dictionary reigns supreme? The answer depends on your needs and goals. If you’re a scholar, researcher, or language enthusiast who needs a comprehensive record of the English language, the OED is the undisputed champion. Its sheer scope, authority, and prestige make it an invaluable resource.
On the other hand, if you’re a language learner, teacher, or professional who needs a reliable and user-friendly dictionary for everyday use, the Cambridge Dictionary is an excellent choice. Its focus on contemporary language, clarity, and accessibility make it an indispensable tool for anyone working with the English language.
Ultimately, both dictionaries are essential tools in the world of language and linguistics. Rather than pitting them against each other, we should celebrate their unique strengths and contributions to our understanding of the English language.
What Is The Main Difference Between The Oxford And Cambridge Dictionaries?
The main difference between the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries lies in their approach to lexicography. The Oxford Dictionary, also known as the OED, is considered more comprehensive and focuses on tracing the historical development of words. It includes a vast range of words, including obsolete and obscure terms, making it a valuable resource for scholars and researchers. On the other hand, the Cambridge Dictionary takes a more modern approach, focusing on contemporary language usage and including a wider range of international words.
While both dictionaries are respected and widely used, the Oxford Dictionary is often considered the gold standard in academic and literary circles. Its historical focus and extensive coverage of words make it an essential tool for anyone studying language, literature, or history. The Cambridge Dictionary, on the other hand, is often preferred by language learners and users who need a more accessible and up-to-date reference.
Which Dictionary Is More Popular Among Linguists And Language Learners?
Among linguists and language learners, the Oxford Dictionary is often considered the more prestigious and widely used reference. This is due in part to its long history and reputation for comprehensiveness, as well as its availability in print and online formats. However, the Cambridge Dictionary has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among language learners, due to its more modern and user-friendly approach.
The Cambridge Dictionary’s online platform, Cambridge Dictionary Online, offers a range of interactive features and multimedia resources that make it an attractive option for language learners. Additionally, its focus on contemporary language usage and international vocabulary makes it a valuable resource for learners who need to stay up-to-date with the latest language trends.
What Is The History Behind The Oxford Dictionary?
The Oxford Dictionary has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The first edition, published in 1884, was the brainchild of James Murray, a Scottish lexicographer who sought to create a comprehensive dictionary that would cover all aspects of the English language. Over the years, the dictionary has undergone several revisions, with the most recent edition being published in 2010.
Today, the Oxford Dictionary is considered one of the most authoritative and respected dictionaries in the world, with over 170,000 entries and 600,000 word forms. Its historical focus and extensive coverage of words make it an essential tool for scholars, researchers, and language learners alike.
Is The Cambridge Dictionary Only Available Online?
No, the Cambridge Dictionary is not only available online. While its online platform, Cambridge Dictionary Online, offers a range of interactive features and multimedia resources, the dictionary is also available in print format. In fact, the Cambridge Dictionary has been publishing print editions since the 1990s, and its print editions are widely used in schools, universities, and libraries around the world.
The print edition of the Cambridge Dictionary is particularly popular among students and teachers, who appreciate its concise and accessible format. However, the online edition is also widely used, particularly among language learners who need access to up-to-date language resources and interactive features.
How Often Are The Dictionaries Updated?
Both the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries are regularly updated to reflect changes in language usage and new word entries. The Oxford Dictionary is updated quarterly, with new words and senses added to its online edition. The print edition, on the other hand, is updated every 10-15 years, with the most recent edition being published in 2010.
The Cambridge Dictionary is also updated regularly, with new words and senses added to its online edition every month. Its print edition is updated every 5-7 years, with the most recent edition being published in 2019. Both dictionaries have a team of lexicographers and researchers who work tirelessly to ensure that the dictionaries remain up-to-date and reflect the latest language trends.
Can I Use Both Dictionaries For Academic Purposes?
Yes, you can use both the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries for academic purposes. While the Oxford Dictionary is often considered the more prestigious and widely used reference, the Cambridge Dictionary can also be a valuable resource for academic research. In fact, many scholars and researchers use both dictionaries to cross-check information and gain a more comprehensive understanding of language usage.
Both dictionaries are widely recognized and respected in academic circles, and can be cited as sources in academic papers and research. However, it’s worth noting that the Oxford Dictionary’s historical focus and comprehensiveness make it a more suitable choice for research in language, literature, and history, while the Cambridge Dictionary’s modern approach and international vocabulary make it a better choice for research in fields such as linguistics and language teaching.
Are There Any Other Dictionaries That Are Similar To The Oxford And Cambridge Dictionaries?
Yes, there are several other dictionaries that are similar to the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries. Some notable examples include the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the Collins English Dictionary, and the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English. These dictionaries offer similar features and resources to the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries, including comprehensive coverage of words, phrases, and senses.
However, it’s worth noting that each dictionary has its own unique features and approaches to lexicography. For example, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is known for its focus on American English, while the Collins English Dictionary is known for its concise and accessible format. Ultimately, the choice of dictionary will depend on your individual needs and preferences as a language user or researcher.