With over 187,000 clear definitions and entries, coverage of new words, and extra language help, this dictionary seeks to help users keep up-to-date with today's English. Based on the Concise Oxford Dictionary ninth edition, its new features make it easy to use and accessible - providing the language guidance needed for everyday life. Definitions in clear, current English are complemented by extra spelling and pronunciation help for difficult words, with a simplified pronunciation system (not IPA). Usage notes with illustrative examples are included, as well as language panels that offer a greater understanding of how the language fits together. Etymologies are written in a simple, practical style and derivatives are placed at the end of entries in order to make them easy to find. Twenty-one quick reference appendices including time zones, the Beaufort Scale, beverage and cooking measures, laundry codes, clothing sizes, alphabets, the zodiac, the calendar and maths symbols provide further useful information.