Showing papers in "International Journal of Lexicography in 1990"

Introduction to WordNet: An On-line Lexical Database

Abstract: Standard alphabetical procedures for organizing lexical information put together words that are spelled alike and scatter words with similar or related meanings haphazardly through the list. Unfortunately, there is no obvious alternative, no other simple way for lexicographers to keep track of what has been done or for readers to find the word they are looking for. But a frequent objection to this solution is that finding things on an alphabetical list can be tedious and time-consuming. Many people who would like to refer to a dictionary decide not to bother with it because finding the information would interrupt their work and break their train of thought.

Report on the New Oxford English Dictionary User Survey

Abstract: As part of their plan to computerize the Oxford English Dictionary, the Oxford University Press and the University of Waterloo undertook a user survey. The objective of the survey was to establish how respondents now use the Dictionary, to determine the principal facilities that users will require of an electronic version of the OED and to provoke thoughtful responses about applications for the New OED. The survey was, in many respects, a necessary preliminary to all subsequent phases of the project. This report summarizes the principal results of the survey. It includes the questionnaire itself, a tabulation of the individual responses, an analysis of current and predicted patterns of use implied by the responses, and a statistical characterization of suggested applications for the New OED. Anticipated use appears to vary according to user characteristics (including occupation, location, and native language), whether the dictionary is used for research, and on current patterns of use. The findings must remain tentative until more data on actual use are available. Because of the potential diversity, however, database design and marketing should for the time being emphasize flexibility. [The proposed 'electronic version of the OED' should not be confused with the Oxford English Dictionary on CD-ROM available now, which is based on 'the original twelve volume edition, but without its supplement' (G. Jtaye, IJL 2/1 Spring 1989: 85).