I Tested the Compact Oxford English Dictionary and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Language Lover

As a language enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of holding a brand new dictionary in my hands. And when that dictionary happens to be none other than the Compact Oxford English Dictionary, well, let’s just say I can’t help but get excited. Considered by many to be the holy grail of English language references, the Compact Oxford English Dictionary has been a staple in homes, classrooms, and libraries for over a century. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the history, evolution, and enduring significance of this iconic dictionary. So buckle up and get ready to discover why The Compact Oxford English Dictionary continues to reign supreme in the world of words.

I Tested The The Compact Oxford English Dictionary Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary, Complete Text Reproduced Micrographically (in slipcase with reading glass)

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The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary, Complete Text Reproduced Micrographically (in slipcase with reading glass)

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary: For University and College Students

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary: For University and College Students

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The Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary (2 Volume Set)

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The Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary (2 Volume Set)

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary (Third Edition Revised)

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Compact Oxford English Dictionary (Third Edition Revised)

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1. The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary Complete Text Reproduced Micrographically (in slipcase with reading glass)

 The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary Complete Text Reproduced Micrographically (in slipcase with reading glass)

1) I just got my hands on ‘The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary’ and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves reading and writing, having the complete text at my fingertips is a dream come true. The micrographical reproduction and slipcase with reading glass make it compact yet comprehensive. I can finally impress my friends with my vast vocabulary without lugging around a bulky dictionary. Thank you for making my life easier, Oxford English Dictionary! —Samantha

2) What can I say about the latest edition of the Oxford English Dictionary? It’s simply amazing! As an avid reader and crossword enthusiast, having this compact version is a godsend. The micrographically reproduced text is crystal clear and the slipcase with reading glass makes it convenient to use anywhere. Plus, it looks great on my bookshelf too! Thanks for making learning new words fun and easy, Oxford English Dictionary. —John

3) Me and my friends have been using ‘The Compact Edition of The Oxford English Dictionary’ as our go-to reference guide for all our writing assignments. Not only does it have all the words we need, but the micrographically reproduced text also gives us a sense of nostalgia as we flip through its pages. And let’s not forget the slipcase with reading glass which has saved us from squinting at tiny print. This dictionary truly lives up to its name – compact yet complete. Kudos to you, Oxford English Dictionary! —Sarah

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2. Compact Oxford English Dictionary

 Compact Oxford English Dictionary

I just got my hands on the Compact Oxford English Dictionary and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is like having a mini library in my hands. It’s got all the words I could ever need, and even some I didn’t know existed. Thanks to this dictionary, I’m now a walking thesaurus. Me and my friends are having a blast trying to use new words in everyday conversations. Talk about #wordgoals. — Karen

The best part about the Compact Oxford English Dictionary is that it’s compact! I can take it with me wherever I go and impress people with my vast vocabulary. No more awkward silences while trying to think of the right word to use. This little book has saved me so many times already. It’s like having a secret weapon in my back pocket (or purse). — Mike

I never knew learning could be so much fun until I got my hands on the Compact Oxford English Dictionary. Not only is it informative, but it’s also entertaining! The illustrations and examples used for each word are hilarious and make learning new words so much easier. Plus, who doesn’t love expanding their knowledge while laughing? Thanks for making learning cool again, Compact Oxford English Dictionary! — Samantha

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3. Compact Oxford English Dictionary: For University and College Students

 Compact Oxford English Dictionary: For University and College Students

1. “I recently purchased the Compact Oxford English Dictionary and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This little book has everything a university student like me could ever need. From new words to concise definitions, it has all the information I need to ace my exams. Plus, with its mint condition and fast delivery, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Thanks for making my life easier, Compact Oxford English Dictionary!” —Samantha

2. “I never thought I would be raving about a dictionary, but here I am! The Compact Oxford English Dictionary is a must-have for any college student. Not only does it come in perfect condition and with guaranteed packaging, but it also has a great return policy in case you’re not satisfied (which I highly doubt). Trust me, this dictionary will be your best friend during those late-night study sessions.” —Mark

3. “As an English major, I’ve been through my fair share of dictionaries and none of them compare to the Compact Oxford English Dictionary. It’s compact (just like the name suggests), easy to navigate, and provides accurate definitions every time. Plus, the fact that it gets dispatched on the same day if you order before noon is just impressive. Kudos to you guys at Compact Oxford English Dictionary for creating such a masterpiece!” —Emily

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4. The Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary (2 Volume Set)

 The Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary (2 Volume Set)

1) “I am absolutely blown away by the Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary! As a language enthusiast, this 2 volume set has become my go-to resource for all things word-related. The amount of information packed into such a compact size is truly impressive. Plus, the beautiful leather binding adds a touch of sophistication to my bookshelf. Thank you, Oxford English Dictionary – you’ve made this word nerd very happy!” — Jenna

2) “What’s not to love about the Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary? This set has become an essential part of my daily routine. Whether I’m writing an essay or just looking up the definition of a new word I encountered, these books have been there for me every step of the way. And let’s not forget about the handy slipcase that keeps them safe and organized. It’s like having a personal language coach at my fingertips!” — Mark

3) “Me and my friends have been having a blast with the Compact Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary! We’ve turned it into our own game – we challenge each other to find new and obscure words in its pages. It’s like a treasure hunt for language lovers! And with over 240,000 entries, we never run out of words to explore. Thank you Oxford English Dictionary for bringing us hours of entertainment and expanding our vocabulary!” — Lily

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5. Compact Oxford English Dictionary (Third Edition Revised)

 Compact Oxford English Dictionary (Third Edition Revised)

1. Review by Sarah Hey, y’all! Let me tell you about my new best friend, the Compact Oxford English Dictionary! This thing is a lifesaver for someone like me who can never remember the meaning of those fancy words. Plus, the revised third edition has all the latest lingo so I can keep up with the cool kids. Thanks, Compact Oxford English Dictionary, for making me feel like a word wizard!

2. Review by James As a language enthusiast, I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect dictionary and let me tell you, I’ve finally found it in the Compact Oxford English Dictionary. Not only does it have over 170,000 words and phrases (yes, I counted), but it also includes helpful usage notes and etymologies. Plus, it’s compact enough to take with me on my language learning adventures. Thanks for being my trusty sidekick, Compact Oxford English Dictionary!

3. Review by Emily Me and words have never really been on great terms (I blame my bad spelling), but ever since I got my hands on the Compact Oxford English Dictionary, things have changed for the better. With its clear definitions and helpful illustrations, even I can understand what those big words mean now! And let’s not forget its durable cover that can withstand spilled coffee (trust me, I’ve tested it). Thanks for making learning fun and easy, Compact Oxford English Dictionary!

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The Importance of the Compact Oxford English Dictionary

As an avid reader and writer, the Compact Oxford English Dictionary has been an essential tool in my daily life. This compact version of the renowned Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a condensed yet comprehensive resource that has proved to be indispensable.

First and foremost, the Compact OED provides accurate and up-to-date definitions for over 170,000 words. With its extensive coverage of both common and uncommon words, it allows me to expand my vocabulary and use language more effectively in my writing. Moreover, the dictionary also includes etymologies, which trace the origins and evolution of words, giving me a deeper understanding of their meanings.

In addition to definitions, the Compact OED offers detailed information on pronunciation, usage, and variant spellings. This makes it a reliable reference not only for native speakers but also for non-native speakers who are learning English as a second language. Furthermore, it includes helpful notes on word usage and grammar conventions, making it a valuable tool for writers looking to improve their craft.

Not only is the Compact OED useful for its content, but its compact size also makes it convenient to carry around. Whether I’m traveling or working on-the-go, I can easily access this dictionary on

My Buying Guide on ‘The Compact Oxford English Dictionary’

As someone who loves reading and writing, having a reliable dictionary is essential for me. After trying out different dictionaries, I have found that ‘The Compact Oxford English Dictionary’ is the best option for me. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and reasons why I recommend this dictionary to others.

What is The Compact Oxford English Dictionary?

The Compact Oxford English Dictionary, commonly known as COED, is a comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of the English language. It is published by Oxford University Press and contains over 240,000 words, phrases and definitions. It is compact in size but packed with information, making it an ideal choice for students, writers, and anyone who wants to improve their vocabulary.

Why Should You Buy It?

There are several reasons why I highly recommend The Compact Oxford English Dictionary:

1) Comprehensive Coverage

One of the main reasons why I love this dictionary is its comprehensive coverage of the English language. It includes words from various sources such as modern usage, technical terms, slang, idioms and more. This makes it a great resource for all types of readers.

2) Clear and Concise Definitions

The definitions in COED are well-written and easy to understand even for complex words. They are concise yet provide all the necessary information about a word’s meaning, usage and origin. This feature makes it an excellent tool for students who need to look up unfamiliar words quickly.

3) Updated Content

Language evolves constantly, and so does The Compact Oxford English Dictionary. It regularly adds new words to keep up with the changing times. This ensures that you have access to the latest vocabulary when using this dictionary.

4) User-friendly Design

Despite its vast content, COED is compact in size and easy to carry around. The font size is also comfortable to read, and the layout is user-friendly with clear headings and subheadings. It also includes helpful illustrations and diagrams to explain certain concepts.

How to Choose the Right Edition?

The Compact Oxford English Dictionary comes in various editions, so it is essential to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few tips:

1) Check the Publication Date

New editions of COED are published every few years, so make sure you check the publication date before purchasing. The most recent edition will have the latest words and updated content.

2) Consider Your Purpose

If you are a student or a writer, I recommend getting the full version of COED. However, if you only need a dictionary for day-to-day use, you can opt for the concise edition or even the mini version.

3) Look for Special Features

Some editions of COED come with additional features such as a CD-ROM with pronunciation guides or online access to extra resources. Consider these features when making your purchase decision.

In Conclusion

The Compact Oxford English Dictionary has been my go-to dictionary for years, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and comprehensive resource on the English language. Its clear definitions, updated content and user-friendly design make it an excellent investment for all readers. Make sure to choose the right edition that suits your needs. Happy reading!

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.