Techniques for WCAG 2.0

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# G55: Linking to definitions

## Applicability

All technologies that include links.

This technique relates to:

- Success Criterion 3.1.3 (Unusual Words)
  - How to Meet 3.1.3 (Unusual Words)
  - Understanding Success Criterion 3.1.3 (Unusual Words)
- Success Criterion 3.1.4 (Abbreviations)
  - How to Meet 3.1.4 (Abbreviations)
  - Understanding Success Criterion 3.1.4 (Abbreviations)

## 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 his 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.

Example Code:

    <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>

## Resources

No resources available for this technique.

## Related Techniques

- G62: Providing a glossary
- G70: Providing a function to search an online dictionary
- G101: Providing the definition of a word or phrase used in an unusual or restricted way
- G102: Providing the expansion or explanation of an abbreviation
- G112: Using inline definitions
- H40: Using definition lists
- H60: Using the link element to link to a glossary
- H64: Using the title attribute of the frame and iframe elements

## Tests

### Procedure

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

1. Check that at least the first instance of the item is a link.

2. Check that each link navigates to the definition of the item.

### Expected Results

- Checks #1 and #2 are true.

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