Technique G55:Linking to definitions
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>
Applicability
All technologies that include links.
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.