LEXICOGRAPHICAL GAPS IN INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE MEDIA: A CASE FOR SPECIALISED ENGLISH-IGBO MEDIA COMMUNICATION DICTIONARIES

Abstract

The rapid global expansion of media communication systems has underscored the critical need for specialised lexicographical resources to address existing linguistic disparities, particularly in indigenous African languages such as Igbo. Despite the increasing demand for culturally relevant media content, the absence of standardised terminology in Igbo poses significant challenges for journalists, broadcasters, and digital content creators who operate within Igbo-speaking contexts. This study investigates the necessity of a specialised English-Igbo dictionary for media communication, proposing a foundational lexicon comprising 50 key terms alongside their linguistically and culturally appropriate Igbo equivalents. Theoretically anchored in Wittgenstein’s (1953) Use Theory of Meaning, which emphasises contextual usage in determining semantic value, and the Alphabetisation Rule for systematic terminology organisation, this research adopts a qualitative lexicographical methodology. Through a combination of term extraction from existing media glossaries, native speaker consultations, and expert validation, the study establishes a preliminary framework for standardising Igbo media terminology. Findings reveal that the absence of such a dictionary impedes effective media communication among Igbo speakers, reinforcing the dominance of English in professional discourse. The study advocates for systematic terminology development to preserve linguistic identity and enhance media literacy in Igbo. It contributes to broader discussions on indigenous language revitalisation and calls for collaborative efforts between linguists, lexicographers, and media practitioners to ensure the sustainability of Igbo in an increasingly digital and globalised media environment.