How to Add Custom Words to Microsoft Office Web Dictionary
Question details
The user wants to add valid company terms to a custom dictionary in Office web applications so they are no longer flagged as misspelled.
- Product
- Microsoft Office Web Apps
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Editing or reviewing a PowerPoint file stored on SharePoint using the Microsoft Office online web application.
- Observed behavior
- Valid company terms are flagged as misspellings, and the user is unable to find an option to create or edit a custom dictionary directly within the web application interface.
Ensure you have access to a locally installed desktop version of Microsoft Office, as the online web applications have limited dictionary customization features.
Use a Desktop Office Application to Add Words
Since Office web apps generally do not support creating or editing custom dictionaries, you must use the locally installed desktop version to add your custom terms.
Microsoft's online web applications rely on a standard cloud-based dictionary. To permanently add custom jargon, acronyms, or company names to your dictionary, the file must be edited using the full desktop software.
While viewing your file in the Office web app (such as Word or PowerPoint online), look at the top ribbon and click the 'Editing' or 'Viewing' dropdown, then select 'Open in Desktop App'.
Once the document opens in your desktop Office application, find the company term or word that is marked with a red squiggly underline.
Right-click the misspelled word and select 'Add to Dictionary' (or navigate to 'Spelling' > 'Add to Dictionary') from the context menu to save it to your local custom dictionary.
Submit Feature Feedback to Microsoft
If you heavily rely on the web app for collaborative work, you can submit feedback to Microsoft requesting custom dictionary support online.
Try WPS Office for Better Dictionary Control
Frustrated by the limitations of Office web apps? WPS Office is a powerful, lightweight, and completely free alternative that gives you full control over your documents, including comprehensive local custom dictionary support. It allows you to easily manage spell-check preferences while maintaining high compatibility with your existing workflow.
- 1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint document directly.
- 3. Customize Dictionary: Right-click any flagged custom word and select 'Add to Dictionary' to easily update your local spell-check preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sync my desktop custom dictionary with Office online apps?
No. Currently, Microsoft Office web applications do not sync with or utilize the custom dictionaries created in the desktop versions of the software.
Why are valid company terms marked as misspelled in SharePoint?
Office online apps use a standard, global cloud-based dictionary that does not recognize specialized industry terms, acronyms, or specific company jargon out-of-the-box.
Is there a workaround to ignore spell check for specific words online?
Yes. You can right-click the flagged word and select 'Ignore All' in the web app. However, this is temporary and you will likely need to repeat this process the next time you or a colleague opens the document online.
Where is the custom dictionary stored on my computer?
For Windows desktop Office applications, custom dictionaries are typically stored as .dic files in the local AppData directory, usually found at %appdata%\Microsoft\UProof.
