"in the dictionary" vs "on the dictionary"

Question

"in the dictionary" vs "on the dictionary"

Both 'in the dictionary' and 'on the dictionary' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'In the dictionary' is used when referring to the location of a word or information within the dictionary. 'On the dictionary' is used when something physically rests on top of the dictionary.

Last Updated: March 06, 2024

Use 'in the dictionary' when referring to the location of a word or information within the dictionary. For example, 'I found the definition of the word in the dictionary.'

Examples:

The word 'apple' is in the dictionary.
Look up the word 'elephant' in the dictionary.
I couldn't find that term in the dictionary.

Alternatives:

inside the dictionary
within the dictionary

Use 'on the dictionary' when something is physically resting on top of the dictionary. For example, 'The cat is sleeping on the dictionary.'

Examples:

There is a cup on the dictionary.
She placed her phone on the dictionary.
The pen is on the dictionary.

Alternatives:

resting on the dictionary
sitting on the dictionary

Answer 1

in the dictionary

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

on the dictionary

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

"in the dictionary" vs "on the dictionary"

in the dictionary

on the dictionary

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