Spanish Picture Dictionary

While standard Spanish dictionaries are invaluable resources, a Spanish picture dictionary combines language with images to provide an enhanced experience that is beneficial for many users. For those learning Spanish as a second language, the pictures reinforce the words and improve definition recall.

Using an Interactive Spanish Picture Dictionary

Interactive Spanish picture dictionaries are available on the Internet and as software programs. Dictionaries online may contain a number of specific images which users can browse according to beginning letter or specific category -- such as animals, toys, or clothing. Using this type of dictionary usually only requires you to browse or search for the images or categories you are interested in. Typically, the dictionary will include commonly used words and phrases, such as:

  • Action words
  • Objects
  • Colors
  • Shapes
  • Introductions
  • People
  • Feelings
  • Transportation
  • Numbers
  • Simple questions

Some Spanish dictionaries may also use pictures to assist in learning abstract concepts such as time, money, placement, and punctuation. Spanish image dictionary software programs may contain more in-depth features, learning activities, and pronunciation guides. Both interactive Spanish image software and online dictionaries typically include the words in both English and Spanish for easy cross-referencing.

Helpful interactive visual dictionary resources include:

Spanish Dictionary Picture Books for Children

Multiple studies have illustrated that children have an excellent ability to absorb and retain languages. Spanish dictionary pictures books can assist children in learning core Spanish phrases as well as commonly-used objects and words. In addition to the practical application of learning the language, bright colors and vivid images are also engaging and entertaining for children. Spanish dictionaries with pictures for children are available online, bookstores, and libraries.

These are designed for various age groups; books geared for infant and toddler-aged children may have only the simplest words and phrases, while more advanced dictionaries will include phrases and concepts. Most contain simple pronunciation guides to promote accurate verbal language skills.

Recommended Spanish Dictionaries for children include:

  • The McGraw-Hill Spanish Picture Dictionary was developed by educators for optimum association between visual cues and word definitions. Including over 1,400 words and brilliant illustrations, this dictionary is designed for children between the ages of four and nine.
  • The Oxford Picture Dictionary for Kids is available in an English/Spanish version that presents over 700 words contextually through pictures. Organized thematically and with kid-friendly characters, this dictionary makes learning Spanish words and phrases easy and fun.

Spanish Image Dictionaries for Adults

Since accessing new concepts with both visual cues and language can also be highly beneficial for adults, image dictionaries for adults learning Spanish are also available.

Image dictionaries for Spanish words are useful for both learning and refreshing the language. A variety of people may benefit from using the information in these dictionaries, including:

  • Students
  • Readers
  • Translators
  • Business persons
  • Travelers

The Oxford Picture Dictionary in English/Spanish is designed for adults and includes over 29,000 picture definitions and a number of specialized language concepts.

The Macmillan Visual Dictionary English/Spanish version is a highly comprehensive dictionary with useful and beautiful illustrations to enhance the definitions. It's an excellent resource for assisting new learners as well as increasing the existing vocabulary of those familiar with the language. Some print dictionaries also include helpful audio resources such as CDs or CD-ROMs to assist in proper pronunciation and include helpful speaking hints.

Spanish dictionaries with visual enhancements are offered by a variety of trusted publishers in the academic and education arena. These include such names as:

  • http://dictionary.cambridge.org">Cambridge University Press
  • http://www.garneteducation.com">Garnet Education
  • http://www.askoxford.com">Oxford University Press
  • http://www.mcgraw-hill.com">McGraw-Hill

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