Research on Bilingual Dictionary Definitions

Author: Wei Xiangqing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: This series systematically explores translation theory issues from the perspective of translation studies development. The selected topics possess considerable theoretical depth and originality, with research characterized by systematicity, openness, and innovation. The "New Perspectives in Translation Studies Series" has clear objectives: First, the selected topics are designed to have substantial theoretical depth and originality, contributing to the theoretical development and advancement of translation studies. Second, research is expected to be systematic, ensuring quality through a strong problem awareness, scientific methodologies, rigorous arguments, and comprehensive data. Third, research should be open-ended, requiring scholars to possess a broad theoretical perspective while keeping abreast of the latest developments in international translation studies, with a spirit of exploration and a commitment to innovation. With the support of colleagues in the translation field and the efforts of the authors, our aspirations can gradually be realized.
The research in this book, in terms of its theme, still falls under traditional foundational theoretical studies. However, compared to previous studies on the translation of bilingual dictionary entries, this research exhibits distinct innovative features. These innovations are primarily reflected in four aspects: First, the redefinition of the research subject. Second, the innovative research orientation. Third, the innovative theoretical basis. Fourth, the expansion of new research areas. This book represents an initial systematic attempt to study the translation of bilingual dictionary entries, holding significant importance for the systematic construction of bilingual dictionary theory. In this regard, the research in this book should be characterized by a proactive awareness of theoretical construction.
On the other hand, since the reform and opening-up, the compilation and publication of bilingual dictionaries in China have flourished like never before. However, high-quality bilingual dictionaries that truly meet the linguistic and cultural cognitive needs of foreign language learners remain scarce. The overall quality of bilingual dictionary compilation needs further improvement. Moreover, with the continuous introduction of monolingual dictionaries from Western countries, competition in the dictionary market has become increasingly fierce. To maintain the initiative in bilingual dictionary compilation and remain invincible in competition, we must produce more high-quality bilingual dictionaries. Practical progress, however, relies on theoretical guidance. The research in this book is also a theoretical exploration grounded in the current state of bilingual dictionary compilation and publication in China, carrying positive practical significance.
The book is divided into seven chapters. Chapter 1 is the introduction, which briefly outlines the research content and objectives of the book. It also provides a review and analysis of the history and current state of research on similar issues in lexicology, particularly in bilingual dictionary studies, proposing the unique orientation, methodology, and multifaceted theoretical basis of this book. Chapter 2 serves as an important foundation for the book’s arguments, primarily elaborating on the complexity of natural vocabulary semantics. Additionally, this chapter thoroughly discusses and distinguishes the linguistic meaning of natural vocabulary from its pragmatic meaning, while also carefully analyzing the characteristics of bilingual dictionary users—foreign language learners—in terms of lexical semantic learning. Chapter 3 focuses on the systematic characteristics of the translation of bilingual dictionary entries. Starting with a reevaluation of the purpose of bilingual dictionaries, the author analyzes the main shortcomings of traditional bilingual dictionary translation functions and discusses the corresponding functions of modern bilingual dictionary translation. On this basis, the author further explores the systematic characteristics of modern bilingual dictionary translation from the perspective of modern systems theory, namely the holism, hierarchy, and dynamism of the bilingual dictionary translation system. Chapter 4 discusses the prototype characteristics embodied by the constituent elements of the bilingual dictionary translation system. This chapter is inspired by the cognitive construction learning theory from modern psychological research, emphasizing that modern bilingual dictionary translation should benefit the construction of foreign language learners’ lexical semantic knowledge by carefully selecting and arranging content in the dictionary text. Additionally, the various stages of the bilingual dictionary translation system should exhibit prototype characteristics, as prototypes play a significant role in lexical semantic cognitive construction. Chapter 5 explores the special issues of bilingual dictionary translation. Bilingual dictionary translation has clear cognitive value orientation. Moreover, in terms of practical methods and form, bilingual dictionary translation differs significantly from general text translation, showing distinct characteristics of adaptive translation. At the end of this chapter, the author analyzes and compares specific types of bilingual dictionary translation practices with concrete examples, offering practical value. Chapter 6 addresses the critical issues of bilingual dictionary translation, which is also a relatively important topic. From the perspective of systematic construction in modern lexicology theory, dictionary criticism is an indispensable component of lexicological theoretical research. Naturally, the theoretical study of bilingual dictionary translation must also focus on the critical issues of bilingual dictionary translation. Chapter 7 is the conclusion of the book. The research in this book is only an exploratory attempt in the study of bilingual dictionary translation, and there is still considerable room for expansion in this field. First, the issue of formal innovation in bilingual dictionary translation. Second, the issue of structural optimization in bilingual dictionary translation. Third, bilingual dictionary translation research should also focus on the translation of Chinese bilingual dictionaries. The author of this book will continue to explore and discover new theories based on this research, combining them with practical experiences in bilingual dictionary compilation.