Office for Mac Issues

How to Fix Word for Mac Repeatedly Requesting Custom Dictionary Access

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing a recurring issue where Microsoft Word for Mac constantly prompts for permission to access the Custom Dictionary file, failing to remember the choice even after 'Grant Access' is clicked.

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Using the spell check or custom dictionary feature in Microsoft Word for Mac.
Observed behavior: Word repeatedly displays a prompt requesting permission to access the Custom Dictionary file and does not save the 'Grant Access' permission for future sessions.

Before you start

Ensure your macOS and Microsoft Word application are updated to the latest versions, as outdated software can sometimes cause file permission and sandboxing glitches.

Solution 1Recommended

Move the Custom Dictionary to the Default Permitted Folder

macOS sandbox restrictions often trigger this loop if the dictionary is saved in an unauthorized location. Moving it to the default Office folder usually resolves the issue.

Because of Apple's strict sandboxing rules, Microsoft Word is only allowed to access specific folders on your Mac automatically. If your custom dictionary is located elsewhere, macOS will continuously block background access.

Locate the Dictionary File

Open Finder and locate your custom dictionary file, which is typically named Custom Dictionary.dic.

Move to the Office Folder

Move the file to the default sandbox location for Office applications: ~/Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/Custom Dictionaries.

Re-link in Word

Open Microsoft Word, go to Preferences > Spelling & Grammar > Dictionaries. Add the dictionary from the new location and click 'Grant Access' when prompted.

Accessing the Library Folder: If the Library folder is hidden on your Mac, open Finder, click 'Go' in the top menu bar, hold down the 'Option' key, and click 'Library' when it appears.

Solution 2

Create a New Custom Dictionary

If moving the file doesn't work, the dictionary file itself might be corrupted or lack proper user read/write permissions. Creating a new one can fix the prompt loop.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word for Mac repeatedly ask for custom dictionary access?

This happens due to macOS 'sandboxing' security features. If the dictionary file is stored in a location that Word isn't explicitly permitted to access, macOS will repeatedly block access, causing the recurring prompt even after you click 'Grant Access'.

Where should the custom dictionary be stored on a Mac?

To prevent macOS permission errors, the custom dictionary should be stored in Word's default sandbox folder: ~/Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/Custom Dictionaries.

How do I transfer my saved words to a new custom dictionary?

You can open your old .dic custom dictionary file using the built-in TextEdit app on your Mac. Simply copy the list of words, paste them into the newly created dictionary file, and save your changes.

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