The Oxford Essential Dictionary of Difficult Words

This little book has just about any word you might look up, and omits those you won't (e.g., "cat"). In addition, it provides example sentences and explanatory notes for many words (e.g., "further" vs. "farther"). All this in a small and inexpensive package. This is perhaps the only dictionary you'll need.

What a relief it is to know that one does not have to carry around the Oxford English Dictionary to keep one's head above water with the English language. I am often at a loss for the correct spelling or usage of a word that I think is the right one. Common business dictionaries often fail to provide the material for creative writing, and usually fail to provide useful examples. And, of course, it helps to have something handy when someone else decides to show off their language skills.This little gem, "The Oxford Dictionary of Difficult Words" is intended to fill this particular gap. Only 1-1/2" thick, the paperback is just the size for slipping into a briefcase or portfolio. It provides all the basics; pronunciation, parts of speech, and concise definitions, and sample sentences. It covers both technical as well as English usage. So if you are occasionally non-plussed by the appearance of elucubrate or exactly how to use sardonic, this is the handy reference for you.