the classical Arabic efforts in the field of dictionaries compilation and the modern ones.
Arabs are the first people who made the first perfect dictionaries in the world by the 9th century. I know that other Eastern nations such as Chinese one have a great contribution in compiling dictionaries, but I have no idea about the first perfect chinese dictionary. thanks a lot for interest.
Arabic lexicography refers to the study and compilation of dictionaries for the Arabic language. It has developed over centuries and can be categorized into two main periods: classical and modern Arabic lexicography.
Classical Arabic Lexicography:
1. Early Efforts: The roots of Arabic lexicography can be traced back to the early Islamic period. Scholars like Al-Khalil ibn Ahmad Al-Farahidi and Al-Jawhari compiled dictionaries to document the vocabulary of the Quran, poetry, and Arabic literature.
2. Al-Qamus: The most significant work of classical Arabic lexicography is "Al-Qamus" by Al-Firuzabadi. It is a comprehensive Arabic dictionary that includes etymology, definitions, and usage examples. Al-Qamus served as a foundation for subsequent Arabic dictionaries.
3. Focus on Classical Arabic: Classical lexicography primarily focused on the vocabulary and usage of Classical Arabic, which was the language of the Quran, Islamic texts, and literature from the pre-Islamic era to the medieval period.
Modern Arabic Lexicography:
1. Expansion of Vocabulary: Modern Arabic lexicography reflects the expansion of the Arabic language and its usage in contemporary contexts. It encompasses the vocabulary used in various fields such as science, technology, politics, and economics.
2. Multivolume Dictionaries: Modern Arabic dictionaries, like "Al-Mawrid" by Rohi Baalbaki and "Lisan Al-Arab" by Ibn Manzur, are extensive and multivolume works that cover a wide range of vocabulary from classical to modern Arabic.
3. Linguistic Analysis: Modern lexicography incorporates linguistic analysis, providing information on word origins, derivations, meanings, pronunciation, and usage in different dialects and regions.
4. Digital Lexicography: With the advancement of technology, digital dictionaries and online resources have become popular. Online platforms and mobile applications offer quick access to Arabic dictionaries, including interactive features like audio pronunciation and search functions.
Modern Arabic lexicography has expanded in terms of vocabulary usage in several ways:
1. Scientific and Technological Terminology: With advancements in science and technology, modern Arabic lexicography has incorporated a vast range of technical terms and terminology related to fields such as medicine, engineering, computer science, and telecommunications. This expansion allows for the accurate interpretation and understanding of these specialized areas.
2. Political and Societal Terminology: Modern Arabic lexicography has also adapted to reflect the changing political and societal landscape. It includes vocabulary related to politics, governance, international relations, social issues, and cultural phenomena. This expansion ensures that dictionaries are up-to-date and relevant to contemporary discourse.
3. Globalization and Borrowed Words: The influence of globalization has led to the incorporation of borrowed words from different languages into modern Arabic lexicography. As Arabic speakers interact with other cultures and languages, new terms are assimilated, reflecting the multicultural nature of modern society. These borrowed words are often included with Arabic transliterations and explanations.
4. Colloquial and Dialectal Vocabulary: Modern Arabic lexicography recognizes the importance of colloquial and dialectal variations of Arabic. Dictionaries now include vocabulary specific to different dialects, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the language across various regions. This expansion reflects the diversity and richness of Arabic as a spoken language.
5. Neologisms and Slang: Modern Arabic lexicography has also embraced the inclusion of neologisms and slang terms that emerge within contemporary Arabic-speaking communities. This expansion captures the ever-evolving nature of language and keeps dictionaries relevant to current usage.
Therefore, modern Arabic lexicography has expanded its vocabulary usage by incorporating scientific and technological terminology, political and societal terms, borrowed words, colloquial and dialectal vocabulary, as well as neologisms and slang. This expansion ensures that dictionaries remain comprehensive and reflective of the dynamic nature of the Arabic language in the modern world.
Both classical and modern Arabic lexicography play a crucial role in preserving the Arabic language, documenting its vocabulary, and supporting language learners, researchers, translators, and those interested in Arabic linguistics.
Arabic language is outstandedly rich with its Lexicography .Among tens of them ,is "Al-Ain","Tahtheeb Alnafs".Godspeed to you.
thanks! but this is the first step to build a giant achievement......
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