In which situation would a student most benefit from using a bilingual dictionary?

A bilingual dictionary is particularly beneficial when a student is trying to grasp the meaning of unknown words. In this context, it serves as a resource that allows the learner to see the equivalent words in their native language, which can significantly help in understanding the nuances and context of the unfamiliar terms. Accessing translations and seeing how words are used in different contexts can deepen comprehension and reinforce vocabulary acquisition.

For other scenarios, such as free conversation exercises or during composition writing, relying solely on a bilingual dictionary may disrupt the flow of communication or writing. In these cases, the focus is often on fluency and expression rather than on word-for-word translations. Summarizing texts in English may also require more advanced skills that involve synthesizing ideas rather than simply translating vocabulary, making a bilingual dictionary less practical. Thus, when the goal is decoding and understanding words, a bilingual dictionary becomes an invaluable tool for the learner.