How to Use a Rhyming Dictionary

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By NinaH
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You're trying to write a poem. You need a rhyme for "pretend," and you can't think of anything. The purpose of a rhyming dictionary is to give you all the possibilities, in case one of them will jog your creativity and ideas. Here's how to use a rhyming dictionary.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Rhyming dictionary
Online rhyming dictionary site

Step 1

Check to see if your rhyming dictionary is organized into different sections for the number of syllables. Some of them start with one-syllable words, and then progress to three- and four-syllable words at the end.
Step 2

Look up the last syllable of the word you wish to rhyme. In the case of "pretend," this is "end." Try one-syllable words, and make a list of those you might use. Then look at two-syllable words, and then longer ones.
Step 3

Think of similar spellings or sounds, if you might like a slant rhyme.
Step 4

Try an online rhyming dictionary. Type in the word, and it will give you lists of one-, two-, three- and four-syllable words. You will find some repeats, since there are phrases that re-use the same rhyming syllable.