GREGG SHORTHAND DICTIONARY

INTRODUCTION
A dictionary is primarily a reference book. A good dictionary, however,
properly used, should be far more than that. This is particularly true of a
shorthand dictionary, which should be a guide so clear that a beginner can
readily locate the shorthand outline for any given word, but which at the
same time should possess all the resources needed to satisfy th.e most advanced
writer, whether a teacher or a court reporter.
The Gregg Shorthand Dictionary should not only teach the beginner,
but should help the expert to crystallize his knowledge by careful classification
of the shorthand forms and consistency in the use of abbreviating devices.
In the present dictionary, we have endeavored to do these things. In this
brief Introduction we shall state some of the principles followed in obtaining
consistency of outline. These rules cover the treatment of some frequent
sound combinations, and a thorough acquaintance with them will often make
it unnecessary to refer to thtt word list itself for an outline.
One of the most fascinating featu res of Gregg Shorthand is the manner
in which the principle of analogy is applied. Nothingis more helpful to the
shorthand writer than this principle properly used In effect, it means that,
once you have learned the forms for one or more words of any classification,
you may then write any similar word ending in the same way. For example,
when you know the shorthand forms for agitate and hesitate, and therefore
know that the ending tate is expressed by to, you can write any similar words,
such as dictate or imitate.
In other words, the material given in this Introduction is not to be memorized,
but is to be studied intelligently in order that you may see the underlying
principles governing the formation of the outlines. Nothing is arbitrary
-there is always a reason why, even though at first sight it may not be
apparent.
iv