ARCHIVED 1.2.6. Comparative and Monolingual Terminology
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Monolingual terminology is performed, as you might have guessed, in only one language. Monolingual terminology work might be carried out in the context of language management efforts for the language in question. For example, terms may need to be created for existing concepts to replace foreign-language terms that were adopted in the workplace. Or new concepts may be introduced into a society with new industries, and terms may need to be created to designate these concepts.
Outside of concerted language management activities, monolingual terminology work may be necessary to ensure effective communication, for example, when a concept is being designated by a number of different terms within a particular group of speakers and the selection of a preferred term is called for, or when a subject field is evolving rapidly and the precise analysis and definition of concepts and identification of the terms that designate them are necessary. The preparation of a terminology case file with a view to standardizing usage may be required.
Comparative terminology is carried out in two or more languages. In this case, concept analysis must be performed in each of the languages involved. concept systems are not always identical between any given pair of languages. Through terminology research, concepts may be matched where possible, and equivalent terms can then be identified.
Conversely, a comparison of the concept systems, together with the process of term identification, may reveal gaps in one or the other of the languages under study, and the creation of equivalent terms may be required to ensure the proper transfer of specialized knowledge between language communities as well as effective communication among members of the language communities involved.
In the latter case, the role of the person(s) responsible for terminology management in the communities involved is to describe the gaps, consult with colleagues and specialists in the subject field, and propose designations to fill them. In order for the proposed term to be acceptable and valid, it must be based on sound knowledge of the target language’s rules of lexical formation, must be harmoniously integrated into the existing set of terminology, and must be clearly presented as a proposal.
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