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Nuttcase Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

The limitation of dictionaries

It seems that certain dictionary entries are either too vague or too precise, and as a result omit certain meanings a word can possess. Do you agree with me or not? Take this example for instance. According to AskOxford, the word qualify can mean

modify (a statement) by adding restrictions or reservations

There is nothing wrong with that entry, but compare this to this entry from American Heritage:

To modify, limit, or restrict, as by giving exceptions.

Adding reservations is more general than giving exceptions; although their meanings converge a bit. What do you think and why? Thank you for your time.
  

Top answer

Hello, nutcase-- and welcome to English Forums. I agree that some dictionaries are more lucid than others and that no dictionary can include everything. However, I see no substantial difference in clarity or precision between adding reservations and giving exceptions .

  • Hello, nutcase-- and welcome to English Forums.
  • I agree that some dictionaries are more lucid than others and that no dictionary can include everything.
  • However, I see no substantial difference in clarity or precision between adding reservations and giving exceptions .
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6 Answers
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Hello, nutcase-- and welcome to English Forums.

I agree that some dictionaries are more lucid than others and that no dictionary can include everything. However, I see no substantial difference in clarity or precision between adding reservations and giving exceptions.
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Thank you for your take on this.

I have to agree that there is not much difference. However, I think adding reservations applies to more instances than giving exceptions. Isn't that correct?
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The possibilities for both seem infinite to me.
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Well, for instance, one can say: I think you are wrong, although I was wrong on a number of occasion without realizing it.

The bolded part is a reservation, but not an exception.
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So what? I fail to see your point, nutcase.
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Adding a reservation encompasses giving exceptions, but is not defined as it.

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