← How Dictionaries Decide · Lesson 1 of 3
Use makes a word
Most modern dictionaries describe the language people use rather than decide what is allowed. A word goes in when it is used widely, by many writers, over a long enough time.
So "is it a real word?" usually means "do enough people use it, in enough places, for long enough?" A dictionary records the answer; it does not grant permission.
What usually gets a new word into a modern English dictionary?
A lesson is kept once you've answered the question and written at least 8 words. Nobody grades it; it stays on this device.