How to Request an Open-Source Dictionary in Adobe Acrobat Reader
Question details
Users want to integrate an open-source dictionary application like ColorDict directly into the PDF reader's text selection menu to look up words without leaving the app.

- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Android
- Scenario
- Reading PDF documents and needing to quickly look up the definitions or etymology of unfamiliar words using an in-app dictionary.
- Observed behavior
- Adobe Acrobat Reader currently lacks built-in integration with open-source dictionaries, forcing users to exit the reading view to look up words.
Ensure your Adobe Acrobat Reader app is updated to the latest version on the Google Play Store, as developers occasionally add new reading tools based on user feedback.
Submit a Feature Request to Adobe
Since native integration for open-source dictionaries like ColorDict is currently missing, the best approach is to officially request the feature from the Adobe product team.
Adobe relies on user feedback to prioritize new app features. Submitting a structured request explaining the need for language and etymology plugins can help push dictionary integration onto their development roadmap.
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Adobe Acrobat Reader Feature Request or Bug Report Form.
Select Android as your operating system and provide your current Acrobat Reader app version.
Clearly explain that you would like an open-source dictionary option (such as ColorDict) added directly to the text selection menu for seamless word lookup.
Click the submit button to send your request to the product team, and monitor the Adobe user voice forums for any status updates.
Use Android Split-Screen Mode as a Workaround
Use your Android device's native multitasking capabilities to run your preferred dictionary app side-by-side with your PDF document.
Read and Translate PDFs Easily with WPS Office
If your current PDF reader lacks the robust reading and lookup features you need, switch to WPS Office. The WPS PDF reader includes powerful text selection tools and built-in translation features to help you understand complex documents without constantly switching apps.
- 1. Install the App: Download and install WPS Office from the Google Play Store onto your Android device.
- 2. Open the PDF Reader: Launch WPS Office and navigate to the 'PDF' tab to access the integrated PDF reading environment.
- 3. Load Your Document: Open your target PDF file from your local storage or connected cloud drive.
- 4. Select and Translate: Long-press any unfamiliar word or phrase to bring up the text selection menu, then choose the built-in translation or lookup tools to instantly read definitions.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I link ColorDict directly to Adobe Acrobat Reader on Android?
No, Adobe Acrobat Reader currently does not support native integration with external or open-source dictionary applications like ColorDict within its text selection menu.
How do I look up unfamiliar words in Adobe Acrobat Reader?
Without a built-in dictionary plugin, you must long-press the text to copy the word, then exit or switch from the Acrobat Reader app to paste the word into a separate dictionary app or web browser.
Are there other PDF readers for Android that support dictionary lookups?
Yes, several e-reader applications and comprehensive office suites like WPS Office offer built-in translation and reading assistance tools that reduce the need for third-party dictionary plugins.
Will Adobe add a dictionary feature in the future?
Adobe frequently updates its applications based on user demand. Submitting a detailed feature request through their official channels is the best way to encourage the development team to add open-source dictionary support.




