Labels used in the dictionary
The following labels are used with words that express a particular attitude or are appropriate in a particular situation.
approving expressions show that you feel approval or admiration, for example feisty, petite.
disapproving expressions show that you feel disapproval or contempt, for example blinkered, newfangled.
figurative language is used in a non-literal or metaphorical way, as in He didn’t want to cast a shadow on (= spoil) their happiness.
formal expressions are usually only used in serious or official language and would not be appropriate in normal everyday conversation. Examples are admonish, besmirch.
humorous expressions are intended to be funny, for example fisticuffs , ignoramus.
informal expressions are used between friends or in a relaxed or unofficial situation. They are not appropriate for formal situations. Examples are bonkers, dodgy.
ironic language uses words to mean the opposite of the meaning that they seem to have, as in You’re a great help, I must say! (= no help at all).
literary language is used mainly in literature and imaginative writing, for example aflame, halcyon.
offensive expressions are used by some people to address or refer to people in a way that is very insulting, especially in connection with their race, religion, sex or disabilities. You should not use these words.
slang is very informal language, sometimes restricted to a particular group of people, for example people of the same age or those who have the same interests or do the same job. Examples are dosh, gnarly.
specialist language is used by people who specialize in particular subject areas, for example accretion, adipose.
taboo expressions are likely to be thought by many people to be very offensive or shocking. You should not use them.
The following labels show other restrictions on the use of words.
dialect describes expressions that are mainly used in particular regions of the British Isles, not including Ireland, Scotland or Wales, for example beck, nowt.
old-fashioned expressions are passing out of current use, for example beanfeast, bothersome.
old use describes expressions that are no longer in current use, for example ere, perchance.
saying describes a well-known fixed or traditional phrase, such as a proverb, that is used to make a comment, give advice, etc., for example actions speak louder than words.
™ shows a trademark of a manufacturing company, for example Band-Aid, Frisbee.
