Build your dictionary collection

Online and local dictionaries

An online dictionary sends your query to its service and needs a network connection. A local MDict dictionary reads files installed on this device and can work offline. A dictionary appearing in the catalog does not mean it has already been added or is ready to use.

Use dictionaries whose files you are entitled to use. AALookup supplies a reader and catalog; it does not grant rights to every publisher’s dictionary or transfer your local files through account sync.

Add a dictionary

1. Open the dictionary collection or the dictionary section of Settings. Browse the catalog, inspect a source and add the edition you want. Wait until installation or preparation has finished before searching.
2. For local files, choose the local import action and select the MDX file or its containing folder as offered on your device. On desktop, opening an associated .mdx file can also start import.
3. Keep matching MDD resources and companion files together with the dictionary. Missing resources can leave definitions readable but remove images, styles or audio.
4. Enable the dictionaries you want and arrange their order. Search a familiar word to confirm both text and resources work. On desktop, save the Settings draft to apply pending changes.

Read and personalize entries

Full entries preserve the dictionary’s own formatting and available interactions. Use dictionary selection to focus on a source instead of assuming every dictionary contains the same headword. Per-dictionary appearance and zoom controls help with small or crowded layouts.

On desktop Search, selecting text inside an eligible local entry can preview a matching entry in that same dictionary or offer lookup and pronunciation actions. This selection tool is specific to Search; do not expect it in every embedded learning or lookup panel.

Some dictionary styles and scripts are supplied by the dictionary itself. Use trusted files and changes. A dictionary’s own audio and the app’s pronunciation settings are separate, so a silent entry may need its resource files or a different voice setup.

If a dictionary is missing or broken

• Confirm that it is enabled and that preparation has completed.
• Check local file access and companion resources; moving or deleting files can make an installed source unavailable.
• For online sources, check the connection and whether that source is available. Try another enabled dictionary to isolate the problem.
• Install local dictionaries separately on each device; synchronized words do not install dictionaries.

• Search and history →