What is Lexicography?

  • Henning Bergenholtz Department of Afrikaans and Dutch, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa and Centre for Lexicography, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
  • Rufus H. Gouws Department of Afrikaans and Dutch, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa
Keywords: independent discipline, information tool, lexicographer, lexicographic practice, lexicographic theory, lexicographic tool, lexicography, lexicology, metalexicography, scientific lexicography, terminography

Abstract

Within the field of lexicography there are numerous differences when it comes to the interpretation of the term lexicography and differences in determining the nature, extent and scope of this term. Although it is widely accepted that lexicography consist of two components, i.e. theoretical lexicography and the lexicographic practice, different definitions of lexicography give no unambiguous reflection of this distinction and of the individual components. This paper looks at some prevailing diverse uses and interpretations of the word lexicography. This is followed by proposals to ensure a transformative, unified and comprehensive interpretation of this concept.
Published
2012-11-14
How to Cite
Bergenholtz, H., & Gouws, R. H. (2012). What is Lexicography?. Lexikos, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.5788/22-1-996
Section
Artikels/Articles