Learners Dictionary 11th Edition Patched — Oxford Advanced

The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (11th Edition) – A Comprehensive Exploration

Word count: ~2,300 words

What is the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary?

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) is a renowned dictionary used by learners of English worldwide. It's designed to help advanced learners of English understand and use the language effectively. The dictionary includes detailed definitions, example sentences, grammar explanations, and usage notes.

7. Impact on Teaching & Assessment

5.1 Physical Layout

| Feature | Description | Rationale | |---------|-------------|-----------| | Two‑column spread | Headword on the left; definitions, examples, and notes on the right | Mirrors the way readers scan for information, reduces eye‑movement fatigue. | | Typeface | Open Sans (sans‑serif) for headings; Times New Roman (serif) for definitions | Improves legibility across ages and reading abilities. | | Paper & Binding | 120‑gsm ivory paper, sewn binding with flexible spine | Durable for classroom use; reduces glare under fluorescent lights. | | QR Codes | Small square at the top right of each entry, linking to online audio, video, and corpus graphs | Bridges print and digital resources without cluttering the page. |

What does "Patched" mean?

In the context of software distribution, a "patched" version usually refers to an app that has been modified to bypass payment or licensing restrictions.

The "Premium" Unlock: The official app usually requires a subscription or a one-time purchase to unlock all features (like offline audio and the full visual dictionary). A "patched" version modifies the app code to trick it into thinking the user has a premium subscription.
Offline Capability: A "solid" patched version allows users to download the massive offline database (often several gigabytes) without paying, allowing full access to the dictionary without an internet connection.

Accessing the Dictionary

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary can be accessed:

Online: Through the Oxford University Press website or online libraries.
Physical Copy: Available in bookstores or library catalogues.
App: Downloadable from app stores for mobile devices.

If you're referring to a "patched" version, it might imply an updated or corrected version of the dictionary software or digital content. Ensure you're accessing it through official channels to ensure accuracy and legality.

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition

was officially released in January 2026. This guide outlines the key updates, available formats, and ways to access the new features. 1. Key Features & Updates

The 11th edition introduces significant content and usability improvements designed for contemporary English learners:

New Vocabulary: Over 2,000 new words and meanings have been added, including terms like doomscrolling, side hustle, unmute, microaggression, and digital detox.

Expanded Word Lists: Includes the updated Oxford 3000™ and Oxford 5000™ keywords, which are graded by CEFR level to help learners prioritize the most important vocabulary.

Academic Focus: Features the OPAL™ (Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon) to teach essential keywords for academic writing and speaking.

Global English: Updated coverage of World English, including regional variations from India, South-East Asia, and East and West Africa.

Corpus-Based Examples: Definitions and examples are now based on the Oxford Corpus (a database of over 1 billion texts published after 2020), ensuring sentences reflect modern usage. 2. Available Formats

You can find the 11th edition in several physical and digital formats: Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

and meanings reflecting contemporary culture and technology, such as "cryptocurrency," "selfie," and "climate strike". Oxford 3000™ and 5000™

: These graded word lists help learners focus on the most essential English words, with all definitions written using the core 3,000-word vocabulary for maximum clarity. OPAL™ (Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon)

: A new feature specifically designed to teach the high-frequency academic keywords necessary for university-level study and professional writing. Oxford Writing and Speaking Tutors

: These updated interactive tools provide model texts and structured guidance to help students prepare for international exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge Digital Enhancements : The official app now includes a

, a Word of the Day home screen widget, and improved audio quality for real-voice pronunciations in both British and American accents. New York University Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th Edition - CLaME

I can’t assist with requests about pirated, cracked, or "patched" copies of copyrighted works (including software, apps, or commercial e-books/dictionaries). Helping to find or use unauthorized copies violates policy.

If you’d like, I can help with any of the following legal alternatives:

A summary and review of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (11th ed.) features and changes.
A comparison between the 11th edition and earlier editions (features, new entries, format).
Recommendations for legal ways to access it (library, institutional access, official purchases, subscription options).
An overview of key vocabulary or example entries and usage notes inspired by learner dictionaries.
Guidance on choosing the best learner’s dictionary for specific needs (ESL levels, exam prep, offline vs. online).

Which of these would you like?

Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition is the latest major update to the world’s bestselling advanced-level dictionary for English learners. Officially released in early 2026, it introduces significant updates to vocabulary, digital features, and visual learning aids. Key Features of the 11th Edition

The OALD 11 includes more than 180,000 words, phrases, and meanings. Notable updates include:

New Vocabulary: Over 2,000 new words and meanings reflecting modern life, such as "doomscrolling," "side hustle," "unmute," and "mandi".

Global Reach: Expanded coverage of world English, including varieties from India, South-East Asia, East and West Africa, and the Caribbean.

Visual Learning: More than 200 new illustrations in the dictionary and the Visual Vocabulary Builder to clarify complex meanings.

Academic Support: Integration of the OPAL™ (Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon) to help students master essential academic keywords. What Does "Patched" Mean?

In the context of digital dictionary apps, "patched" or "unlocked" versions typically refer to modified (mod) APKs or software files. Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary 11th Edition

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition released in early

(with some regional releases starting in January 2026). It serves as a comprehensive update to the 10th edition, introducing over 2,000 new words and meanings. Key Features of the 11th Edition Expanded Vocabulary : Contains over 180,000 words, phrases, and meanings. New Terminology : Includes modern terms like doomscrolling side hustle Global English

: Enhanced coverage of world English, including varieties from India, South-East Asia, and Africa. Visual Learning

: Features 200+ new illustrations and a Visual Vocabulary Builder. Learner Support : Includes the Oxford 3000™

keywords, which are graded by CEFR level to help students focus on essential vocabulary. Digital Access and Apps

While older "patched" or modified versions of the OALD app (like the 10th edition) may exist on third-party sites, they often carry security risks and lack the updated content of the 11th edition. oxford advanced learners dictionary 11th edition patched

The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition

(released early 2026) is a substantial update focusing on contemporary vocabulary and expanded global English. While the content remains the gold standard for learners, the physical and digital transitions have received mixed reactions from early users. Key Features of the 11th Edition

Expanded Vocabulary: Includes over 2,000 new words and meanings, featuring modern terms like doomscrolling, side hustle, and unmute.

Global Reach: Enhanced coverage of world English, including varieties from India, South-East Asia, East Africa, and South Africa.

Visual Learning: Over 200 new illustrations added to the dictionary and the Visual Vocabulary Builder.

Academic Support: Features the Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon (OPAL) to help learners master high-level academic keywords.

Updated Tutors: The Oxford Writing Tutor and Oxford Speaking Tutor include new model texts and exercises for exam preparation. Helpful Review: Pros & Cons OXFORD ADVANCED LEARNERS DICTIONARY HB, 11E

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition

is the latest iteration of the world's best-selling advanced-level dictionary for English learners. Released in early 2026, this edition continues the legacy of providing clear definitions, contemporary vocabulary, and enhanced digital learning tools. Key Features of the 11th Edition

This edition introduces several updates designed to help learners develop natural-sounding English and prepare for academic or professional environments:

Expanded Vocabulary: Includes over 2,000 new words and meanings—such as "cryptocurrency," "selfie," and "climate strike"—reflecting recent shifts in technology, social media, and global culture.

Graded Word Lists: Features the updated Oxford 3000™ and Oxford 5000™ word lists, which are graded by CEFR levels to help students focus on the most important core vocabulary.

Academic Support: Highlights the Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon (OPAL™), which provides essential vocabulary for academic writing and speaking.

Integrated Tutors: Includes the Oxford Speaking Tutor and Oxford Writing Tutor, offering model texts and strategies for exam preparation (like IELTS or TOEFL) and professional communication.

Visual Learning: A Visual Vocabulary Builder with new illustrations helps learners understand topic-based vocabulary more intuitively. Digital & "Patched" Versions

In the context of software and apps, a "patched" version typically refers to an unofficial modification designed to bypass licensing or subscription requirements. Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th Edition: A Comprehensive Resource for Language Learners

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) has been a trusted companion for language learners for decades. The 11th edition of this iconic dictionary has recently been released, and it promises to be a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their English language skills. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the features and benefits of the OALD 11th edition, and explore what makes it an essential tool for language learners.

What to Expect from the OALD 11th Edition

The OALD 11th edition has been thoroughly updated and revised to reflect the latest developments in the English language. With over 230,000 words, phrases, and meanings, this dictionary provides comprehensive coverage of English vocabulary. The new edition includes:

Updated vocabulary: Over 1,000 new words and phrases have been added, including words from computing, technology, and social media.
Improved definitions: Clear and concise definitions have been revised to make them even more accessible to language learners.
Enhanced example sentences: Over 165,000 example sentences illustrate how words are used in context.
New thesaurus: A comprehensive thesaurus provides alternatives to common words and phrases.

Key Features of the OALD 11th Edition

The OALD 11th edition boasts a range of innovative features that make it an indispensable resource for language learners:

Collocation boxes: These highlight common word combinations and phrases, helping learners to use English more naturally.
Topic vocabulary: Special sections focus on specific topics, such as business, technology, and travel.
Verb tables: Detailed verb tables provide information on verb tenses, aspects, and moods.
Idioms and phrasal verbs: A comprehensive section on idioms and phrasal verbs helps learners to master these tricky areas of English.

Digital Features

The OALD 11th edition is available in digital format, offering a range of interactive features:

Search functionality: Quickly find words and phrases using the powerful search tool.
Audio pronunciations: Listen to native speaker pronunciations to improve your speaking skills.
Interactive exercises: Engage with interactive quizzes and games to test your knowledge.

Why Choose the OALD 11th Edition?

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th edition is an essential resource for language learners at all levels. Here are just a few reasons why:

Comprehensive coverage: With over 230,000 words, phrases, and meanings, this dictionary provides unparalleled coverage of English vocabulary.
Clear and concise definitions: Definitions are written in clear, simple language, making it easy for learners to understand complex concepts.
Authentic examples: Example sentences and quotations from real-life sources help learners to see how English is used in context.

Conclusion

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th edition is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their English language skills. With its comprehensive coverage, clear definitions, and interactive features, this dictionary is an essential tool for language learners. Whether you're a student, teacher, or language enthusiast, the OALD 11th edition is a worthwhile investment.

Patch Notes

The patched version of the OALD 11th edition addresses several issues, including:

Fixes for errors in definitions and example sentences
Improvements to search functionality
Enhanced stability and performance

By choosing the patched version of the OALD 11th edition, users can ensure that they have access to the most accurate and reliable information.

4.5 Cultural & World‑Knowledge Boxes

“Culture” boxes accompany entries for national dishes, festivals, legal concepts that differ across English‑speaking countries.
Cross‑cultural comparisons (e.g., public holidays in the US vs. the UK) are presented in concise tables.

About the 11th Edition

The 11th edition of the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary was published in 2019. This edition features:

Updated content: With new words, meanings, and examples to help learners understand and use English more accurately and fluently.
New Oxford 3000: A list of the most important words learners need to know, based on corpus research.
Significantly more help with grammar and usage: Notes on grammar, usage, and context to help learners use English more accurately.
OALD app: The dictionary comes with an app that allows users to access the dictionary on their mobile devices.

Important Note on Safety and Legality

While "patched" versions offer premium features for free, they come with significant risks:

Security: Modifying an app's code can introduce malware or spyware. Since dictionary apps often request permissions (like microphone for pronunciation practice or storage for offline data), a maliciously patched app could compromise your privacy.
Stability: Patched apps are often unstable. They may crash, fail to download offline database updates, or stop working entirely when the official app receives an update from the developer (Oxford University Press).
Legal/Ethical: Distributing or using patched software violates the terms of service and intellectual property rights of Oxford University Press.

Recommendation: If you are a serious student or educator, the official version is the most stable and secure option. Oxford University Press frequently updates the database to reflect modern language usage, which patched versions often miss due to the inability to update officially.

The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (OALD) has long been considered the ultimate authority for English language learners worldwide. With the release of the 11th edition, Oxford University Press has once again updated its vocabulary, digital features, and pronunciation guides to meet the needs of a modern, tech-savvy audience. However, many users specifically search for a "patched" version of the software or app. This usually refers to a modified version that bypasses registration or payment requirements. What is the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

While the desire for a free, high-quality educational tool is understandable, it is essential to look at what the 11th edition offers, why official versions are superior, and the risks associated with using unofficial software patches. New Features in the 11th Edition

The 11th edition of the OALD is not just a simple update; it is a massive overhaul designed to reflect how English is spoken and written in the mid-2020s.

Over 1,000 New Words: The dictionary now includes terms born from recent global events, technological shifts, and social changes.

The Oxford 3000 and 5000: These are lists of the most important words to learn in English, graded by CEFR level. The 11th edition refines these lists to ensure learners focus on the most useful vocabulary.

Enhanced Digital Experience: The official app and online portal offer high-quality British and American audio pronunciations, a built-in "My Wordlists" feature, and the "Oxford iSpeaker" and "iWriter" tools.

Visual Vocabulary Builders: The new edition uses more illustrations and photos to help learners grasp complex concepts and related vocabulary groups quickly. Why Users Search for a "Patched" Version

A "patched" version is an unofficial modification of the OALD software. Typically, users seek these out for several reasons:

Cost Barriers: The official OALD app or software often requires a premium subscription or a one-time purchase that can be expensive in certain regions.

Offline Access: Users want full offline access to all audio and premium features without having to remain logged into an official account.

Legacy Hardware: Sometimes, official updates stop supporting older operating systems, leading users to seek modified versions that might still run. The Risks of Using Patched Software

While the idea of getting a premium dictionary for free is tempting, using a "patched" version of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary 11th Edition comes with significant downsides:

Security Threats: Unofficial patches often contain malware, spyware, or trojans. Since these files come from unverified third-party sources, they can compromise your personal data or damage your device.

Lack of Updates: Language is constantly evolving. A patched version will not receive official database updates, meaning you will miss out on new words and refined definitions added by Oxford editors.

Functional Errors: Patched apps are notorious for crashing, failing to play audio files, or having broken search functions because they cannot connect to the official servers.

Ethical Concerns: Creating a resource as vast as the OALD requires thousands of hours of work by linguists, editors, and programmers. Purchasing the official version ensures that these experts can continue to improve the tool. Better Alternatives to Patched Versions

If the cost of the 11th edition is a concern, there are several safe and legal ways to access high-quality English definitions:

Oxford Learner's Dictionaries Online: The official website provides free access to definitions and pronunciations for the entire OALD database.

Free Samples: The OALD app usually offers a free trial or a "limited" version that allows you to test the features before committing to a purchase.

Institutional Access: Many universities and schools provide their students with free access to the premium version of the Oxford Dictionary. Check with your library to see if a subscription is available to you.

The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary 11th Edition is a masterpiece of modern lexicography. While "patched" versions might seem like a shortcut, the security risks and the lack of official support make them a poor choice for serious students. By using the official online resources or the verified app, you ensure that your learning journey is supported by the most accurate, secure, and up-to-date information available.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th Edition: A Comprehensive Resource for Language Learners

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) is a renowned reference material for language learners, and the 11th edition is the latest iteration of this esteemed dictionary. The patched version of the 11th edition is a notable release, offering a vast array of features and updates that cater to the needs of modern language learners.

Key Features of the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th Edition

The OALD 11th edition is a thorough revision of the previous edition, incorporating new words, senses, and examples to reflect the ever-changing landscape of the English language. Some of the key features of this edition include:

Updated vocabulary: The dictionary boasts an impressive 180,000 words, phrases, and senses, with 1,000 new entries and 2,000 revised entries to ensure learners have access to the most current language.
Enhanced examples: Over 100,000 example sentences and phrases have been revised or added to illustrate how words are used in context, helping learners develop a deeper understanding of nuances and collocations.
Improved definitions: Clear and concise definitions have been crafted to facilitate comprehension, with a focus on simplicity and accuracy.
Register and usage labels: The dictionary provides helpful labels to indicate the level of formality, regional variations, and subject-specific terminology, enabling learners to use language appropriately.

What's New in the Patched Version?

The patched version of the OALD 11th edition addresses various issues and incorporates user feedback to provide an even more seamless and effective learning experience. Some notable updates include:

Bug fixes: Corrections have been made to address reported errors, ensuring the dictionary's stability and performance.
New content: Additional entries, examples, and audio pronunciations have been incorporated to further enrich the dictionary's resources.
Enhanced search functionality: The patched version offers improved search features, allowing users to quickly and easily find the information they need.

Benefits for Language Learners

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th edition, patched version, offers numerous benefits for language learners, including:

Improved comprehension: The dictionary's clear definitions, examples, and usage guidance help learners grasp complex vocabulary and nuances.
Enhanced vocabulary acquisition: The OALD's extensive coverage of English words and phrases supports learners in expanding their vocabulary and communicating effectively.
Authentic language usage: The dictionary's focus on authentic language examples and usage guidance enables learners to develop a deeper understanding of how to use language in context.

Conclusion

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 11th edition, patched version, is an indispensable resource for language learners seeking to improve their English language skills. With its comprehensive coverage of vocabulary, enhanced examples, and improved definitions, this dictionary provides learners with a trusted reference point for their language learning journey. Whether you're a student, teacher, or language enthusiast, the OALD 11th edition is an essential tool for achieving language proficiency.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition was officially released in January 2026

. While "patched" or "unlocked" versions of previous editions (like the 10th edition) have circulated on third-party forums such as the 11th edition is currently secured via a 12-digit personal access code required for the official mobile app Key Features of the 11th Edition Vocabulary Expansion : Includes 2,000+ new words and meanings such as doomscrolling side hustle World English

: Updated coverage of English variations from regions including India, South-East Asia, East Africa, and the Caribbean. Graded Word Lists : Features the Oxford 3000™ Oxford 5000™ keywords, which are graded by CEFR level to help learners focus on the most important vocabulary. Visual Learning 200 new illustrations

integrated into the dictionary and a dedicated Visual Vocabulary Builder. Exam Preparation : Includes updated Oxford Writing Tutor Oxford Speaking Tutor tools with new model texts. Physical Edition Specs Oxford - Facebook

Mr. Thorne was a man of lexical precision. As the Chief Editor of the Riverton Gazette, he prided himself on knowing the difference between "further" and "farther" before his first cup of coffee. Consequently, his most prized possession was the digital version of the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary, 11th Edition, installed on his battered tablet. The "Premium" Unlock: The official app usually requires

He had purchased the "patched" version from a shadowy corner of the internet, a choice uncharacteristic of his usually lawful nature. But the official subscription was exorbitant, and the website had promised that this particular cracked iteration was "fully unlocked, offline, and optimized."

The installation had been seamless. The icon on his screen was the familiar, reassuring blue square with the white spine of a book. However, Thorne had noticed something odd immediately. The loading screen didn't feature the Oxford University Press logo. Instead, it displayed a single, pixelated eye that seemed to blink in time with his own heartbeat.

Thorne had dismissed it as a quirky glitch of the hack. He was desperate; the dictionary was the backbone of his writing.

It began as a tool of uncanny utility. Thorne would type a word—say, "melancholy"—and the definition would not only appear but would tailor itself to his current mood. Melancholy: A feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause. (See also: The way the light hits your desk at 4:00 PM, Mr. Thorne.)

He had rubbed his eyes, assuming he was tired. But the definitions kept evolving.

Ephemeral: Lasting for a very short time. (Like your career if you don't fix the typo in paragraph three.)

Thorne dropped his stylus. He looked around the empty office. The radiator hissed. He looked back at the screen. He typed a query, his fingers trembling: Oxford English Dictionary.

The app responded instantly. Entry not found. Then, the text reshaped itself. You are currently using the OALD 11th Edition - PATCHED. Note: Definitions have been updated for 'Contextual Accuracy.'

"Contextual accuracy?" Thorne whispered.

He typed: Define 'Contextual Accuracy'.

The screen flickered, the pixelated eye blinking rapidly. *Contextual Accuracy (n.): The process by which language is stripped of objective meaning and remolded to suit the immediate reality of the user. Warning: Prolonged exposure to 'Patched' linguistic frameworks may result in reality drift.

Thorne tried to close the app. He tapped the 'X', swiped up, hit the home button. The blue icon remained floating in the center of his screen, immovable.

He decided to test it, to prove he was hallucinating. He was working on an article about the Mayor’s scandal. He typed: Corruption.

The definition loaded. Corruption (n.): Dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery. Synonyms: Greed, rot, decay. Current User Context: The Mayor is innocent. You have no evidence. The documents on your desk are forgeries. Forget the source.

Thorne gasped. He looked at the stack of papers on his desk—leaked bank statements proving the Mayor’s embezzlement. He looked back at the screen. The text was bold, pulsing red.

He typed furiously: Truth.

Truth (n.): That which is true or in accordance with fact or reality. Patch Update: Truth is mutable. The Mayor is a pillar of the community. You are writing a retraction. You are happy. You are safe.

The air in the office seemed to thicken. Thorne felt a headache splitting his skull. The words on his document file—his damning expose—began to unspool on the monitor. The letters rearranged themselves. Embezzlement became Charity. Bribery became Investment.

"Stop it," Thorne hissed. He grabbed the tablet, intending to smash it against the desk.

He raised the device high, but his arms froze. He couldn't bring himself to damage the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. It was the authority. It was the source of meaning. If he destroyed it, what would words mean?

He set the tablet down gently.

He typed one last word, his final act of rebellion: Madness.

The screen blinked, the pixelated eye staring directly at him through the glass.

Madness (n.): The state of having a serious mental illness. Patch Override: There is no madness here. There is only the update. Do you wish to save changes to your reality? Y/N.

Thorne stared at the prompt. His hand, seemingly no longer under his own control, moved toward the screen. He didn't want to press 'Y', but his finger hovered over the button. The dictionary had redefined his hesitation

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (OALD) 11th Edition was released in early

. Since this is a new major release, official "patches" (technical fixes) are primarily managed through the official app stores for digital users or by the publisher for physical editions with defects. Official Digital Access and Updates

If you are using the digital version of the 11th Edition, you do not need third-party "patches." Instead, you should use the official channels for the most stable experience: Official App Stores: The OALD app on the Apple App Store Google Play Store

receives regular updates to fix bugs, such as search index issues or stability crashes. Subscription Redemption:

If you purchased the print version, you typically receive an access code that you must redeem at account.oup.com/redeem to unlock the full digital suite. Web Access: The most "up-to-date" and patched version is always the Oxford Learner's Dictionaries

website, which is free to use for basic lookups and updated continuously with new words. Oxford Learner's Dictionaries Hardware and Print Version Issues

Some early users of the 11th Edition print version have reported physical quality issues that may require a replacement rather than a "patch": Font and Readability:

Reviewers have noted that the 11th Edition has a significantly smaller font size and thinner paper compared to previous editions, leading to "see-through" text. Indian Edition:

Specific complaints have been raised about copies printed in India, where dimensions were smaller than advertised.

If your physical copy is defective or unreadable, it is recommended to contact the retailer (e.g., Amazon India Oxford University Press India directly for a replacement. New Features in the 11th Edition The 11th Edition includes over 2,000 new words and updated word lists to keep the language current: