Ok, my first suggestion is a tool I personally use every day.

It is the online dictionary leo.org.

So, why is it better than other online dictionaries? Because it is living. leo.org isn’t just a static side, there is a huge community which is with its discussions and suggestions part of the dictionary.

If you won’t find a word in the regular search there will surely be a discussion in the forum where native speakers give the answers to all of your questions. For free, of course.

And if you open an account, which is not necessary to use the translation tool, you will have access to another great feature: the vocabulary drill. This way you are able to design your own lists or use lists from other users to train your vocabulary skills.

All in all a great tool. Check it out!

Kirsten