Technique G55:Linking to definitions

Applicability

All technologies that include links.

This technique relates to:

3.1.3: Unusual Words (Sufficient using a more specific technique when used with G101: Providing the definition of a word or phrase used in an unusual or restricted way)
3.1.4: Abbreviations (Sufficient when used with G102: Providing the expansion or explanation of an abbreviation)

Description

The objective of this technique is to make the definition of a word, phrase, or abbreviation available by providing the definition, either within the same Web page or in a different Web page, and establishing a link between the item and its definition.

Links are a powerful option for providing access to the definition of a word, phrase, or abbreviation. A user can use the link to find the definition quickly and easily, and then return to their place in the content via the user agent's Back button.

Examples

Example 1

Technical terms and abbreviations in an article about sports injuries are linked to definitions in a medical dictionary.

Example 2

A textbook contains a glossary of new vocabulary words introduced in each chapter. The first occurrence of each of these words is linked to its definition in the glossary.

Example 3

A general glossary of abbreviations is provided. All occurrences of abbreviations are linked directly to the appropriate definition within that glossary.

Example 4

The word jargon is linked to its definition in the WCAG2 Glossary.

Example 5

The word "modulo" is jargon used in Web content about mathematics. A definition for modulo is included within the Web page. Each occurrence of the word modulo is linked to its definition.

Example 6

A Japanese idiom is linked to its definition. This example uses a link within the page to navigate to the definition of an idiomatic expression.

              <p>...<a href="#definition">さじを投げる</a>...</p>
                <h3>脚注：</h3>
                <dl>
                <dt id="definition" name="definition">さじを投げる</dt>
                <dd>どうすることもできなくなり、あきらめること。</dd>
                </dl>

Tests

Procedure

For each word, phrase, or abbreviation to be defined:

Check that at least the first instance of the item is a link.
Check that each link navigates to the definition of the item.

Expected Results

Checks #1 and #2 are true.