A rich variety of lexicographical descriptions is available in English, and there is no doubt that this contributes to its status as a world language. The teaching and learning of English can draw not only on a deep-rooted tradition of varied grammatical studies but also on a large range of dictionaries. For the non-native observer conversant with the nature of this language, its history, its development, its vocabulary and grammar, that huge stock of lexicographical resources is particularly useful.