Laziness and Lexicography: A Contrastive Study

Citation

Li S (2014) Laziness and Lexicography: A Contrastive Study. China Education Guide, 4.

Abstract
Due to the far-reaching impact of computer technology, the making of dictionaries has undergone a dramatic change during the last three decades. It is much easier to compile dictionaries today, and databases provide a far more accurate and complete picture of a language. It is easier to click on a dictionary entry than to pick up a heavy book. In spite of all its benefits, laziness is one of the major side effects of digital technology. This study draws on a case study of my own experience as a lexicographer. It discusses whether the technology based dictionaries are more effective for learning a language and to what extent does the learning process in general - and in particular the learning of a language - depend on inefficient technology? The analysis and summary of the major findings make its case for a challenge to the hegemonic and globalizing practices of lexicographical principles.

Keywords
Laziness; lexicography; computer technology; language learning

Journal
China Education Guide: Volume 4