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WordWeb Dictionary by Xword.com |
WordWeb Dictionary is one freeware program every computer shouldn't be without. A Complete dictionary and thesaurus for your word processing needs. |
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4.8 Megs HERE! |
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WordWeb Dictionary by Antony Lewis Last issue, I reviewed APSC spell checker, a great piece of freeware to fix all of the little spelling errors that I always seem to find. Many times while I'm reading or writing, I find myself pulling out the dictionary, just to find out what some of the words MEAN! Introducing (Drum roll here please!!) Word Web Dictionary and thesaurus. This freeware program is a great compliment to APSC as it will give you tons of info on any word that is in it's database. Here's the story: Platform........(yes, this is new!) Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, NT Downloading........ Size zipped: 4.7 megs (.exe file) Size Installed: 6.8 megs It was quick and easy. The download is a 4.8 meg, self install, .exe file. The connection had no problems and I had the file in one minute on a DSL connection. Web Site.......... The site is built around their Web Word Pro. The link will take you to the page for the freeware version. There are download links along on the bottom of the page, separating the different countries from where the download will originate. The download link is the Canadian link. Click on your choice, and your on your way. The site is easy to read using the san serf and arial fonts. The author also allows you to join the WordWeb News List. Installation.......... Find your file and double click. The installer gives you a few options to chose from such as where you would like to locate the icons. Hehehehe........ here's a pic of the installer!!:
I'll bet you didn't think I'd ever put a pic of that did you? :) After a few more clicks, it's installed and ready to go. There's nothing else to do! Well, I always reboot, but that's from years of habit. You really don't have too. Help Files.......... The help files are full of references to their "Pro" model. In fact, you'll have to dig a bit to actually get to the help files for the freeware program, but they're there. They are well written, easy to follow, and even have a couple of screenshots. There's nothing fancy here such as a tutorial or walk through so I suggest reading them over a couple of times to get an idea of the program. Interface........... There's nothing fancy here but just like A.P.S.C., you don't need fancy when you dealing with words. The layout is expandable to the full screen but it's not really necessary as you can run this program in a small window quite well. There is an option that lets you keep the program "on top" which has been rather handy as I do this review. :) There's a box for your word above two more boxes. These two bottom boxes show the meanings of the word and the grammatical references to the word. To the right are the button icons which you can use to find more information. This layout is small and sweet. At my size setting, I can place it in the corner and it is there on top for when I need it while I'm doing typing, such as now! :) Here's a pic of the window with a random word I just happen to select :)
Features........... As a FULL dictionary and thesaurus, it has much to offer. You not only get the spelling of the word, but the meanings dealing with every category for that word such as nouns and verbs. You are also given synonyms, attributes, the different types, and the types of the subject word. This dictionary is quite complete as I was able to check some really strange words without any problems. As a spell checker, I was able to obtain the proper spelling for quite a few errors (I tend to have many of them in my first draft!!) though I wouldn't use this specifically as a spell checker but more as a solid, all purpose dictionary and thesaurus dealing with the makeup of the English language. On that scope, it has to rate top of the class! :) As an example, the word "subject" highlights the Nouns, Verbs, and Adjectives on the right, which can give you a tabbed choice of Types Of, Types, Part Of, Similar, Synonyms and Causes. Here's a pic:
Problems......... The program has worked flawlessly. I have checked the meaning of many words since I first installed it and it works great. I was not fussy on the many references to the "Pro" version at installation and in the help files, but there is no mention of it when the program is being used. Closing......... Combined with A.P.S.C., this is one piece of freeware that shouldn't be missed on anyone's desktop. This program, along with A.P.S.C. will improve your knowledge of English as well as make writing stories, diary entries, and e-mail that much more enjoyable.
Enjoy Buzzy J
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