Abstract
The goal of the study is a design of a framework for formalized representation of lexical knowledge, as presented in bilingual dictionaries. Modern lexicography has elaborated sophisticated methods of data analysis (collection) and synthesis of dictionary entries for particular types of users according to their needs.
However, too little research has been done on the possibilities of representation and storage of the knowledge acquired. Lexicographers have seldom made any distinction between the content of the lexical description and the form how it is presented to the users.
Separation of the content from a particular form would allow for re-use of the data for several purposes and for flexible interactive customization of electronic dictionaries for different types of users. The data could also be used in NLP.
In the first part of the study, the general abstract principles of representation of the lexical knowledge presented in bilingual dictionaries are sought on the basis of the existing dictionaries and the modern processes of lexicographical work. The basic structure of dictionary entries is analyzed on examples.
Modern technical approaches, which may contribute to an efficient and high-quality representation of the lexical knowledge in bilingual dictionaries, are summarized and a generic abstract model for representation of lexical knowledge is defined in terms of objects and relations, together with a proposal for a stratified (modular) implementation for separation of language and dictionary specific components from the general model. The second part demonstrates the use of the model for one particular practical task: a detailed description of a limited group of Norwegian nouns in contrast with their Czech equivalents.
Particular specifications for the proposed generic model needed for the description of Norwegian nouns are defined, and the nouns are analyzed and a possible representation of the knowledge is presented using the proposed principles.