Fachwort und Fachlichkeit in der Presse und in den neuen Medien

Abstract

This article begins by addressing two central concepts of specialist language research, that have been frequently discussed since their emergence: terminology and expertise. The scalar character of these concepts is demonstrated using a number of synonymous terms for diseases, comparing their use in the press and new media. The material basis for the analysis is the reference corpus of the Leibniz Institute for the German Language in Mannheim and widely used German internet forums. Processes of de-terminologization are then investigated, giving examples of selected musical terms that are used in a figurative sense and serve as metaphors in non-musical contexts. It is noted that specialist terminology not only functions to express technical knowledge, it can also perform the functions of boosting emotionality and prestige. The comparison of the two types of media shows the extent to which a phenomenon that has become widespread in the press during recent decades can also now be found on the internet. The examples also document how the expertise status of specialist terms can change over time and depending on the context of their use.

Keywords

• terminology
• expertise
• de-terminologization
• synonymous terms for diseases
• musical terminology with figurative meanings