Verb Dictionary Support
FAQ's
We got a lot of questions about Brown's Spanish Verb Dictionary. Learn more by reading through these answers. You'll get an idea of what the app does and find that Spanish is truly within your reach. Click the questions below to get the corresponding answers.
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Is this a full dictionary?
No, this dictionary focuses on verbs. Verbs are substantial enough to merit having their own dictionary. Students of all levels should have a full dictionary alongside their verb dictionary. In addition to the full verb definitions included in this dictionary are nouns and adjectives relating to each verb.
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Is there a free version?
We don't have a free version.
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Is this going to help me learn Spanish?
Yes. Your success in learning Spanish is directly related to your contact time with the language. You should be using available tools that can remedy the difficulties that English speakers encounter with learning Spanish. Verbs are a major hurdle in acquiring confidence and understanding. Brown's was designed specifically to alleviate these problems, whether you're just starting or you've been studying for some time.
All language students should carry reference material with them, especially when traveling. Now that we have the iPhone and iPod Touch, there is no reason to not have a collegiate quality verb guide in your pocket. See our recommendations on usage.
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Does it work on iPad?
Yes, the iPhone/iPod Touch application will work on the iPad, with identical functionality. It is, however, designed for hardware with a smaller screen, so the visuals will be limited on the iPad. A version optimized for the iPad is currently in development. If you purchase the iPhone version now, you will not have to purchase the app again when it is finally released with iPad compatibility. The apps will be one in the same.
Please note: The app does not work on iPad generation 1 with OS 3.2. Please update the OS to at least version 4 before using.
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How do I download updates?
iPhone: Keep an eye on the App Store icon on your device and you'll see when Brown's is ready to be updated.
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I already have the application on my iPhone, do I have to buy it again for my iPod Touch or iPad?
No, iTunes app store applications can be installed on up to 5 devices per purchase. Use the same iTunes account to download to your secondary device, and it will download for free.
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With what versions of iOS does it work?
iOS 3.0 or newer (except iPad 3.2).
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What does sb mean? or What does sth mean?
Sb means somebody, and sth means something. These abbreviations were mostly eliminated in version 2.9 on the iPhone.
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How many verbs are there in the app?
Over 2,600 Spanish verbs.
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Can I really learn 2,600 Spanish verbs?
Yes, but it takes some time. First of all you must have a use for a word before you actually internalize it. If you had a handle on 100 verbs, you'd be off to a great start in Spanish. Don't let 100 intimidate you either! Brown's can help you make sense of the patterns that repeat from verb to verb. The numbers melt away when completely immersed in the learning process.
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What is a conjugation?
Here is a present tense conjugation for "to eat" in English.
You may remember verbs being written this way if you've taken any foreign language courses in school. Now, take a look at first table on this screen from the app. We see this same sort of information, but in Spanish. The words differ slightly and that makes reading and speaking much more difficult at first. This is precisely why you need to study them! This app can help you understand conjugations.Singular Plural I eat we eat you eat you (all) eat he eats they eat -
What are tenses?
We use tenses to give a sense of time to what we're saying. For example "yesterday I went", and "tomorrow I will go." We can describe things that happened in the past, things happening right now, and things happening in the future. You have to learn the rules to be understood. For example there are a few ways to express an idea in the past. "I was thinking" versus "I thought" convey two different ideas, though they both represent time that has already passed. We've summarized the tense rules for easy reference. The summaries include a lot of examples. Remember that examples make Spanish come alive.
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Why are verbs so important?
Because verbs are everywhere. Verbs describe anything that is moving or happening. If you are serious about diving right into Spanish, you have to get serious about making the conjugations second nature. Without verbs we cannot say much of anything in a second language. You can't say "I'm hungry", nor "Where is the bathroom?" Even in simple sentences like these you won't be understood unless you've learned a certain amount of verbal structure.
All students need to master verbs.
You need to know conjugations, definitions, and when your assumptions are correct or incorrect. Brown's is a great app for reference. Continue your daily study and make the app handy when you're reading or writing. In doubtful situations this verb dictionary is going to feel like a lifesaver. No matter what way you look at it, all students need to master verbs.
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How do you recommend I use this app?
As previously stated, your success is directly related to your contact time with the language. To speak Spanish fluently, you need to be studying every day, even if for only a few minutes. Proficiency grows when you exercise your knowledge through vocabulary.
We recommend that you keep this app available in your pocket when traveling, reading, or writing. Compare the conjugation and definitions to what you see and hear. Double check your emails or your homework. Keeping it handy as questions present themselves increases your practice time and cultivates your interest in Spanish.
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How do you make sense of unknown words?
To make sense in conversation or text with unknown words, focus on the gist of the paragraph. Even students that have been studying for years will miss words or complete ideas in dialogue with native speakers. But that's okay. Remember that language is a vehicle to communicate thoughts and ideas and the main point is often what's most important. You'll sweep up the details as you push forward in your studies and have more experience with common phrases and sayings.
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What if I find a mistake?
Please let us know about it! We make updates frequently, so when you notify us you are assured the correction will come in the next update.
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Is it compatible with accessibility software for visually impaired users?
The iPhone version works quite well with the built in voice over software using iOS 4. Approximately 70% of the app is readable by the voice over system and it is being actively developed.
Known Issues
iPhone Version
- Sometimes the three letter index disappears. The app needs to be restarted to bring it back. [iPhone]
- The app does not work on iPad generation 1 with OS 3.2. Please update the OS to at least version 4 before using.
Requested Features
Users have requested the following additions be made to the app. These features are planned for coming releases. Fill out this form to request a new feature.
- Search conjugated forms — For example: return tener when searching tengo.
- Verb of the day [iPhone] — Everyday a random verb is shown to you via a popup message. This encourages studying and exposes students to new words.
- Increase Accessibility [iPhone] — Make the iPhone app more compatible with the Voice Over software that is included with the iPhone/iPod Touch OS.
- Look up undefined verbs [iPhone] — Use a search engine to look up undefined verbs from within the app.