Some Remarks on the Lexicographic Treatment of German Antonyms Cover Image

Několik poznámek k lexikografickému zpracování německých antonym
Some Remarks on the Lexicographic Treatment of German Antonyms

Author(s): Martin Šemelík
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies
Published by: AV ČR - Akademie věd České republiky - Ústav pro jazyk český
Keywords: German; lexicography; antonyms; word-forming elements; polysemy

Summary/Abstract: The subject matter of the paper is Wolfgang Müller’s dictionary of antonyms: “Das Gegenwort- Wörterbuch. Ein Kontrastivwörterbuch mit Gebrauchshinweisen”. It predominantly focuses on how the dictionary meets the needs of its users. In this regard, the analysis reveals that Wolfgang Müller’s dictionary shows considerable weaknesses especially in (a) the coverage of the lexis, (b) the provision of antonyms in the case of polysemous lexemes and (c) the quality of information in the microstructure. On the other hand, it is worth noting that the dictionary includes word-forming elements. As their inclusion in the macrostructure enables users to understand items that are not listed in the dictionary, this fact represents the main advantage of Müller’s dictionary. Nonetheless, in terms of price and general value the final product itself can hardly be regarded as a special bargain.

  • Issue Year: 91/2009
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 37-44
  • Page Count: 7
  • Language: Czech