Drawing up the macrostructure of a Nguni dictionary, with special reference to isiNdebele

Abstract

In this article a four-step methodology is proposed for the creation of the lemma-sign list of a Nguni-language reference work. The theoretical principles are illustrated throughout with a full- scale case study revolving around isiNdebele For the suggested approach raw corpus data is utilised, and only standard, straightforward and widely-available software tools are required to process the data. Apart from the inherent value of having an entire macrostructure at one's disposal right from the start of a dictionary project, it is shown how such a list can also be used for both predictions and measurements on lemma-sign, page and time levels As such, drawing up the macrostructure of a dictionary automatically leads to a ‘ruler’ with which the entire lexicographic process can successfully be monitored. Specifically for isiNdebele, suggestions are made for the way ahead.