Feature

Cambridge University Press is always committed to its readers, particularly in terms of its lexicographical endeavour. Recently it has come up with the third edition of its “Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary". With the new edition, it adds new teeth to its advantage so that it can rival the other heavyweight Oxford University Press that has an edition of its Learner's Dictionary. CUP goes, very obviously, a step forward with the third edition. The third edition has also increased in volume. Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary is popular to its readers for its clear definitions and adequate examples. The new edition has continued its tradition of defining and exemplifying words clearly. It has been made richer and easier with hundreds of pictures and illustrations which highlight variations in meaning that are essential for advanced learners. Hundreds of new words have also been added, as expected, which keep learners right up-to-date. In the entry arrangements, the most frequently used words are highlighted so that one can know what is really important.

The third edition of CALD offers many new features: Extra help, Let's talk, Common mistake, Word partner, etc. 'Extra help' section provides illustrations, photos and maps, which will certainly enhance readers' understanding of words and their meaning. Innovative 'Let's talk' section focuses on conversation and how people really speak in day-to-day situations. 'Common mistake' boxes, based on real learner errors from Cambridge ESOL exams, help one to avoid typical mistakes. Thesaurus boxes provide alternatives to over-used words, helping learners to expand vocabulary and make their English sound more natural. 'Word Partner' boxes show the learners how to use words as a native speaker would.

The third edition of CALD is accompanied with a CD-ROM like earlier but with added features. Every word has been recorded in British and American English, which makes it an ideal study companion. One can even record one's own pronunciation and compare it with the standard. 'My Notes' lets one add a note to any entry in the dictionary. Extra collocation information and thousands of extra example sentences increases its usefulness to the readers. The SMART thesaurus turns the dictionary into a thesaurus at the click of a button. QUICKfind, a mini pop-up version of the dictionary, gives one instant definition when surfing the web and reading on screen.

The third edition of CALD has been made ideal for FCE, CAE, CPE, BEC and IELTS preparations, besides general preparations and learning in any situations or exams, as there are alternative exercises in CD. With its sound record in CD, it can help one to become a confident, natural-sounding English speaker, I believe.

In Bangladesh, the third edition of Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary is available at the Friends Book Corner, which has a head office at Rafin Plaza, Nilkhet, Dhaka. Under a legal deal with the publisher, the price of the book has been brought down for the Bangladeshi users.So hurry up to collect one.

Throughout her life she bears many hardships, but she works joyfully without betraying any sign of sadness! Probably it's love which makes her to proceed without complaining. The relation between a mother and a child is the best relation ever.

Why do the tears come flowing out when a mother gives birth to a child? It's because she waits month after month for the child to come, who will fill her up with great joy and peace of mind.

So what does 'mother' mean?

Is she only supposed to give but get nothing in return? No! Kids like you and me have great feelings of love for their mother! So, if you want to open your heart, then go ahead! Let us express our deep love towards our mothers on the very special day - 'Mother's Day!’