The Encyclopedic Dictionary of Applied Linguistics - Essential

In this review of The Encyclopedic Dictionary of Applied Linguistics, the bottom line is simple: this is a focused, up-to-date reference aimed at language teachers, researchers, and graduate students who need quick, reliable explanations of core terms and movements in applied linguistics. The book stands out because it compiles a wide range of concepts into a single handbook, making it practical for lesson planning, syllabus design, or brushing up on unfamiliar terminology. For anyone who regularly consults reference works while preparing classes or writing papers, this volume is a useful desk companion.

Key Features

• Comprehensive coverage: The dictionary gathers key concepts and ideas across applied linguistics so users can find concise definitions without consulting multiple sources.
• Current perspective: Entries reflect contemporary movements and trends, helping teachers stay informed about recent developments in language teaching.
• Handbook format: The layout is designed for quick lookup, which benefits classroom preparation and on-the-spot reference during lesson planning.
• Targeted focus: Emphasis on terms relevant to language teaching ensures most entries have direct classroom or research applications.
• Authoritative voice: As a single-volume reference edited by an established scholar, it provides a consistent interpretive approach to terminology.

Who It's For

The Encyclopedic Dictionary is best for language teachers, applied linguistics students, and educational researchers who need concise, reliable definitions and contextual notes on pedagogical concepts. It suits readers who prefer a single, well-organized volume rather than searching journal articles or multiple textbooks.

Those seeking exhaustive theoretical treatises or full-length textbook chapters on methods and theory should look elsewhere; this work functions as a reference handbook rather than a primary course text. If you need extensive empirical studies or step-by-step teaching guides, supplement this dictionary with specialized monographs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consolidates many applied linguistics terms into one handy reference for easy classroom use.
• Reflects up-to-date movements and trends that keep teachers informed about current discourse.
• Handbook layout supports fast lookup and practical application during lesson preparation.

Cons

• Not a substitute for full-length textbooks when deep theoretical exposition or extensive empirical data is required.

Specifications

Title	The Encyclopedic Dictionary of Applied Linguistics: A Handbook for Language Teaching
Editor/Brand	Keith Johnson
Purpose	Reference guide for language teaching and applied linguistics
Content focus	Key concepts, ideas, movements, and trends in applied linguistics
Format	Single-volume handbook/dictionary
Recommended users	Language teachers, graduate students, researchers

Our Verdict

The Encyclopedic Dictionary of Applied Linguistics is a practical, well-focused reference that adds value to any teacher or student's library because it brings together concise definitions and contemporary perspectives in one place. It is good value for those who need a dependable handbook for lesson planning, term clarification, or quick scholarly reference, though readers seeking deep theoretical treatments should pair it with longer monographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for classroom use?
Yes. Its handbook layout and concise definitions make it easy to consult during lesson planning or when clarifying terminology for students.

Who authored or edited the volume?
The work is presented under Keith Johnson, providing a consistent scholarly approach to the entries.

Does it cover recent trends in applied linguistics?
Yes. The volume emphasizes up-to-date movements and trends relevant to language teaching and applied linguistics practice.