WordGenius is a system for publishing dictionaries and reference books electronically, based on eComPress technology from Eurofield Information Systems. [1] The Unabridged and College versions of the Random House Dictionary known as Random House Webster's Dictionary, and the Macquarie Dictionary of Australian English have been published using the technology, along with a thesaurus and spell checker for Microsoft Windows.
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WordGenius features a search engine which is different from other software based reference technologies. Common words can be searched and wild cards can be applied at the beginning or end of words. Puzzle enthusiasts use the ability to search on fragments such as '??agm??ts' to solve crossword puzzles and other word games. The search can be applied to the words or to the definitions, and so facilitates reverse lookups allowing Word Genius dictionaries to be used as a thesaurus.
WordGenius reference works remain compressed on disk, resulting in a small file size with a positive influence on retrieval speed.
Reviewers have commented on the speed and flexibility of searching and the small file size. Some criticism has been made of the fact that the application stays on screen over other applications and could get in the way. Some reviewers of dictionary software criticized the lack of synonyms and other language components. [2] [3] [4]
Babylon Pro Oxford [5] Cambridge Advanced Learners [6] Encarta Right Click [7] Merriam Webster's Collegiate [8] Spell Express [9] Visual Thesaurus [10]
These manufacturers offer their own unique approach to the electronic publication of reference works and so are complementary, rather than directly competitive, with WordGenius. dPubs [11] Eastgate[12] MacroVision[13] There are also a number of technology companies that support publishers with the development of electronic publications. These are not at all competitive with WordGenius, but may use similar tools to develop their publications. They include: MedKnow Publications[14] Publishing Technology PLC[15] Safari Books Online[16]