The role of the South African national lexicography units in the planning and compilation of multifunctional bilingual dictionaries

Abstract

In my research I will comment on the development of the national lexicography units in South Africa, following the establishment of the eleven official languages in South Africa in the post-apartheid society. I will also outline the weaknesses that exist in the traditional dictionaries to ensure limited mistakes in the lexicographic sector. I strongly believe that bilingual dictionaries in a multilingual society like South Africa, especially printed dictionaries, will play a great role in the African society as there is a shortage of reference sources, to assist translators in the development of our languages. The research will also advocate society to fight the major challenges faced by the national lexicography units in South Africa and other countries. I hope that with the research people will become aware of the necessity of using a dictionary at all times and that dictionaries are not only used for professional purposes by academics and highly qualified people, but can also be used for pleasure.