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lookup_dictionary

Check whether a Chinese expression has recorded figurative usage or is a creative neologism by looking it up in CC-CEDICT with tags for figurative, slang, and idiom markers.

Instructions

Look up a Chinese word or phrase in CC-CEDICT (12.5万条目,含简繁双码), optionally augmented by a project whitelist. Returns definitions, pinyin, and structured tags (has_figurative / is_neologism / is_slang / has_idiom_marker / has_literal_only).

Use cases:

  • Detect whether a Chinese figurative expression has been lexicalized (dead metaphor → intended sense in dictionary) or is creative (live metaphor → not in dictionary).

  • Verify neologisms / slang acceptability.

  • Look up idiom (成语 / 典故) figurative senses.

Returns JSON with: word, found_in_cedict, found_in_whitelist, simplified, traditional, pinyin, definitions, tags, whitelist_note.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
wordYesChinese word or phrase (simplified or traditional accepted)
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It details return structure (word, found flags, pinyin, definitions, tags) and explains tags like figurative and idiom. It omits potential error handling or performance aspects, but overall transparent for a lookup tool.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Description is compact but includes use cases and return structure in a logical order. Could be slightly tighter, but no wasted sentences.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given no output schema, description explains return fields adequately. It covers purpose, use cases, and return format. Missing details on error cases or performance, but sufficient for a simple lookup tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, and the description adds context about whitelist augmentation and return values but does not provide additional parameter-specific constraints (e.g., allowed characters, length limits). Baseline 3 is appropriate.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states it looks up Chinese words in CC-CEDICT, with details on dictionary size, optional whitelist, and return values. It leaves no ambiguity about the tool's function.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly lists three use cases: detecting figurative expressions, verifying neologisms/slang, and looking up idiom senses. This provides clear when-to-use guidance.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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