Theoretical Lexicography is a subdiscipline of lexicology concerned with the systematic study, design, and compilation of dictionaries, focusing on the principles, models, and methodologies that underpin dictionary making. It examines the theoretical foundations of how lexical information is organized, described, and presented, rather than the practical creation of dictionaries. Key areas of inquiry include the nature of lexical meaning, the structure of dictionary entries, the classification of dictionary types, user needs, and the application of linguistic theories to lexicographic practice.
Theoretical Lexicography
December 16, 2025
8 Sections
Overview
01
Overview and Introduction
Defining the scope, etymology, and fundamental objectives of theoretical lexicography as an academic discipline distinct from practical lexicography.
02
Historical Development and Origins
Tracing the evolution of lexicographic theory from early glossaries to modern structuralist, generative, and corpus-based approaches.
03
Core Concepts and Fundamental Principles
Examining key theoretical constructs, such as lemma selection, microstructure, macrostructure, lexical semantics, and lexicographic functions.
04
Structure and Components of a Dictionary Entry
Analyzing the internal architecture of dictionary entries, including headwords, definitions, examples, pronunciations, etymologies, and usage labels.
05
Types and Classifications of Dictionaries
Surveying typologies based on linguistic coverage (monolingual, bilingual), purpose (descriptive, prescriptive), and format (print, digital).
06
Applications and Use Cases
Exploring the practical implications of theory in language teaching, computational linguistics, terminology management, and user-centered design.
07
Criticism and Controversies
Addressing debates on descriptivism vs. prescriptivism, bias in definitions, cultural representation, and the limitations of existing theoretical models.
08
Future Directions and Emerging Research
Investigating current trends, including corpus-driven lexicography, artificial intelligence, linked data, and the globalization of lexicographic theory.
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