Lexikos (Dec 2013)

What is a Lexicographical Database?

  • Henning Bergenholtz

DOI
https://doi.org/10.5788/23-1-1205
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 23
pp. 77 – 87

Abstract

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Fifty years ago, no lexicographer used a database in the work process. Today, almost all dictionary projects incorporate databases. In our opinion, the optimal lexicographical database should be planned in cooperation between a lexicographer and a database specialist in each specific lexi­cographical project. Such cooperation will reach the highest level of success if the lexicographer has at least a basic knowledge of the topic presented in this paper: What is a database? This type of knowledge is also needed when the lexicographer describes an ongoing or a finished project. In this article, we provide the description of this type of cooperation, using the most important theo­retical terms relevant in the planning of a database. It will be made clear that a lexicographical data­base is like any other database. The only difference is that an optimal lexicographical database is constructed to fulfil the requirements for a specific lexicographical project.

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