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Definition Lists and Accessibility

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From: Dennis Deacon
Date: Aug 15, 2015 9:59AM

I've been a fan of definition lists for a while now. I use them when have
have a list of paired information, such as a FAQ. To me, this makes
semantic sense.

During the past few months however, I have receive a sizable amount of
feedback stating that definition lists can confuse screen reader users and
should be avoided, with the exception of possibly a glossary of terms.
While my intent is to do what is accessible, I can't get past the semantics
of a definition list making sense in other cases. Admittedly, I used it
more for layout of information, but I've drifted away from that.

Can someone point out specific information on how definition lists can
confuse screen reader users, and the best alternative for paired lists?

--
Dennis Deacon
Email: <EMAIL REMOVED>
Website/Portfolio: dennisdeacon.com
Blog: dennisdeacon.com/blog
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/dennisdeacon