![](http://i.imgur.com/oAqaFzQ.jpg)
paarthurnax
Current dictionary entries have a fairly simple layout - the word, part of speech, definition, and notes. It's rudimentary, but works for what it is. As our understanding and perspective of the language grow, the dictionary itself will need some updating. ![](http://i.imgur.com/OmytDlE.jpg)
Here's a sample for what I envision an updated dictionary entry could look like. The goal here is to develop dictionary entries beyond one or two-word translations, provide sources and examples, and delve deeper into the words than what word notes can currently do. Each entry will have the following sections: - Word - Dovahzul and English transcriptions
- Pronunciation - IPA pronunciation of the word
- Word Type - part of speech, following the additions of this post
- Canon Defnition - the official definition exactly as it is presented in canon material such as the Prima game guide
- Expanded Definition - a fuller definition listing all the different senses, parts of speech, etc.
- Usage - citations of canon usage with official translation and sources
- Connotation - describe the word's inherent meanings more in depth, especially to differentiate it from similar words
- Etymology - list any possible root words, compounds, prefixes, or suffixes
- Notes - any other facts, trivia, or info about the word
This layout incorporates the new parts of speech, which I've been thinking about for a long time but haven't been able to implement because of the old layout. It also provides much more information than the current dictionary entries. Altogether, these changes will help people understand the language better and lend the site much more credibility. If this were to be implemented, I would plan to do it for canon words only. The number of non-canon words is far too vast for something like this to be done for the whole dictionary. Non-canon words would continue to use the old layout. It's unfortunate in a way, but this level of detail would be a significant step forward for the language, and in my opinion it'd be more unfortunate to let the non-canon hold it back (as it is wont to do). My thoughts on non-canon go deeper than that but that's perhaps a discussion for another day. As always, let me know your thoughts and feedback.
paarthurnax
Administrator August 16, 2015 |
Current dictionary entries have a fairly simple layout - the word, part of speech, definition, and notes. It's rudimentary, but works for what it is. As our understanding and perspective of the language grow, the dictionary itself will need some updating. ![](http://i.imgur.com/OmytDlE.jpg)
Here's a sample for what I envision an updated dictionary entry could look like. The goal here is to develop dictionary entries beyond one or two-word translations, provide sources and examples, and delve deeper into the words than what word notes can currently do. Each entry will have the following sections: - Word - Dovahzul and English transcriptions
- Pronunciation - IPA pronunciation of the word
- Word Type - part of speech, following the additions of this post
- Canon Defnition - the official definition exactly as it is presented in canon material such as the Prima game guide
- Expanded Definition - a fuller definition listing all the different senses, parts of speech, etc.
- Usage - citations of canon usage with official translation and sources
- Connotation - describe the word's inherent meanings more in depth, especially to differentiate it from similar words
- Etymology - list any possible root words, compounds, prefixes, or suffixes
- Notes - any other facts, trivia, or info about the word
This layout incorporates the new parts of speech, which I've been thinking about for a long time but haven't been able to implement because of the old layout. It also provides much more information than the current dictionary entries. Altogether, these changes will help people understand the language better and lend the site much more credibility. If this were to be implemented, I would plan to do it for canon words only. The number of non-canon words is far too vast for something like this to be done for the whole dictionary. Non-canon words would continue to use the old layout. It's unfortunate in a way, but this level of detail would be a significant step forward for the language, and in my opinion it'd be more unfortunate to let the non-canon hold it back (as it is wont to do). My thoughts on non-canon go deeper than that but that's perhaps a discussion for another day. As always, let me know your thoughts and feedback. |