China Language Annual (1994)

Author: Li Xingjian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1995-08-01
Features: 1993 was a pivotal year for the rejuvenation of Chinese linguistic research and the modernization of academic studies in China. Several historic events took place that year. In 1993, the pioneer of Chinese linguistic research, the distinguished linguist, and the Chief Consultant of the Journal of Chinese Linguistics, Professor Lu Shuxiang, celebrated his 90th birthday. Since the 1930s, Professor Lu Shuxiang had tirelessly engaged in linguistic research, language teaching, and the popularization of language knowledge. His research covered a wide range of fields, including linguistic theory, Chinese grammar, Chinese dialects, the history of the Chinese language and ancient Chinese, cross-linguistic comparison, Chinese as a second language teaching, language teaching, language reform, writing and style, dictionary compilation, and the collation of ancient texts. Professor Lu Shuxiang's rigorous academic approach, serious scientific spirit, pragmatic theoretical orientation, and selfless dedication to nurturing talent were not only a model for the linguistic community but also an exemplary figure for intellectuals in China. To summarize Professor Lu Shuxiang's significant academic achievements, learn from his rigorous academic attitude, and further advance the development of linguistic studies in China, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences solemnly held an academic symposium to celebrate his 90th birthday in the CAS Academic Auditorium on October 20. Scholars of all generations gathered, showcasing the prosperity and continuity of China's linguistic endeavors.
In 1993, with the advent of the information age, facing the backdrop of domestic reform and opening-up, and increasing exchanges with Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and the international community, the study and application of Chinese were poised to become a pressing issue of the times. There was a growing call within the Chinese linguistic community to accelerate progress, innovate methods, and focus on serving society and addressing real-world needs. To this end, two academic conferences were held in Beijing that year, featuring middle-aged and young scholars as the primary participants. These conferences aimed to reflect the spirit of the 20th century, align with the development trends of contemporary linguistics, exchange research findings from various regions, and advance Chinese language studies in China. The conferences covered a broad range of topics with a broad perspective. A notable feature was the recognition that language behavior is deeply embedded in various social factors and relationships. Research on linguistic phenomena must be conducted within the broader context of social life, incorporating other social factors for comprehensive analysis, and striving to build a modern linguistic theory with Chinese characteristics.
On April 26, 1993, the "Academic Symposium on the Modern Chinese Dictionary" was held in Ningbo. The Modern Chinese Dictionary had a clear compilation purpose and silently contributed to the standardization of Chinese. It inherited the fine traditions of Chinese lexicography while introducing numerous innovations, marking a milestone in the history of Chinese dictionary compilation. Since its publication, the Modern Chinese Dictionary has made significant contributions to promoting Mandarin and advancing the standardization of Chinese. However, language is constantly evolving. With the rapid changes and diversity of modern social life, language, especially its dynamic component—vocabulary—has undergone notable transformations. Under the new circumstances of reform and opening-up, a surge of new words and phrases has emerged, many words haveed new meanings and usages, and specialized scientific terms and dialectal expressions have increasingly permeated and entered colloquial language. To promote the standardization of Chinese and address these linguistic changes in modern society, the Chinese Ministry began substantive work on the Modern Chinese Standard Dictionary. Undoubtedly, the compilation of the Modern Chinese Standard Dictionary will hold epoch-making significance.