Why Certain Words Have Been Purposely Omitted from Dictionaries
Have you ever wondered why some words seem to be missing from general-use dictionaries? This can often be a source of curiosity for language enthusiasts and linguists alike. Let's delve into the reasons behind the inclusion and omission of words in dictionaries, focusing particularly on why certain words are purposely left out.
The Omission of Wordsgoughpteighbteau
One such word that has sparked curiosity is Wordsgoughpteighbteau, a made-up term designed to illustrate irregularities in English spelling. This word is a play on potato, with each syllable altered to reflect irregular pronunciations. For example:
ghough pronounced as /p/ in hiccough (#39;hkp#39;) pteiighbteau pronounced as /t/ in ptomaine (#39;tomen#39;)Interestingly, this fictional word serves as a unique example of how English letter combinations can be inconsistent and unpredictable, prompting discussions on language reform and the challenges of spelling in the English language.
Official Editorial Guidelines and Omissions
Not all words that are missing from dictionaries are fictional or nonsensical. Many omissions are based on editorial guidelines and the space limitations of dictionaries. Here are a few reasons why certain words might be left out:
1. Offensive Language
While many offensive words and phrases are indeed included in some dictionaries, others might omit vulgarities, obscenities, and slurs for reasons of taste and sensibility. In some dictionaries aimed at a younger audience, such as everyday usage and educational texts, these terms might be entirely absent.
For example, the F-word and the N-word may not be included in standard dictionaries like Merriam-Webster, even though they are part of the English language. These words are highly contentious due to their association with historical oppression and cultural insensitivity. Despite their usage and outspoken voices advocating for their inclusion, their omission can still be justified by some editors for moral or cultural reasons.
2. Obsolete Words
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED), often considered the most comprehensive and inclusive dictionary, also omits words that are no longer in common usage. These words may have been prevalent in older literature and writings but have since fallen out of use in modern contexts.
Removal of such words can be seen as a practical decision to keep the dictionary within sane boundaries. However, this practice can be criticized as it may hinder access to historical texts and linguistic context. The omission of words from major dictionaries can create a debate about whether such terms should be included to preserve the richness of the language and its cultural heritage.
3. Editorial Decisions on New Terms
Another area of contention lies in the inclusion of new or emerging terms. Editors must balance the need to keep dictionaries up-to-date with the ever-evolving language and the potential for new (or new-to-the-public) terms to be included. Editors might make different decisions on whether a particular term is in common enough usage to warrant inclusion, leading to variations in which terms appear in different dictionaries.
The OED takes a more inclusive approach, aiming to be comprehensive by documenting the evolution of words through history. Unlike smaller, more concise dictionaries, the OED's vast coverage means it can accommodate a broader range of entries.
Conclusion
The omission of certain words from dictionaries is a reflection of editorial guidelines, cultural sensitivities, and practical considerations. While some may argue for a more inclusive approach, the decisions made by dictionary editors play a crucial role in shaping how the English language is perceived and used by the public.
Understanding the rationale behind these omissions can help us appreciate the complex and evolving nature of our language, and how these decisions impact our understanding of the words we use daily.