Principles and Methods for Semantic Association Processing Between Single Character Entries and Multi Character Entries in Chinese Dictionaries#br#

Cheng Rong

Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2026, Vol. 11 ›› Issue (3) : 88-96.

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Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2026, Vol. 11 ›› Issue (3) : 88-96. DOI: 10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20260307

Principles and Methods for Semantic Association Processing Between Single Character Entries and Multi Character Entries in Chinese Dictionaries#br#

  • Cheng Rong
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Abstract

In Chinese dictionaries, it is necessary, feasible, dynamic, and complex to generalize the meanings found in single character entries so that they fully cover the morphemic meanings involved in multi character entries. This mechanism is essential for constructing a lexicographical knowledge network and helping readers understand the motivations behind word formation in commonly used words. Decades of compilation and revision experience with the Modern Chinese Dictionary has shown that this goal can be effectively achieved by adding new sense items or refining definitions. Whenever a dictionary adds multi character entries, it must take into account whether the single character entries adequately cover the corresponding senses. Given the complexity and ambiguity of semantic relations, certain associations may be temporarily omitted if unclear; otherwise, it is necessary to summarize and establish such connections. There are five main methods to achieve this: defining and summarizing shared semantic components; providing definitions combined with related multi character words; explaining meanings using synonymous multi character words; co-interpreting with two related multi character words; and illustrating associations with examples of multi character words formed from shared morphemic meanings. To further improve quality, authoritative dictionaries need to supplement or fine tune new words whose senses exist in multi character entries but are absent in single character entries, continue to add and enhance well-accepted new words and meanings, and maintain consistency between the characters in the main word forms of multi character entries and the standardized head characters of single character entries. To enhance the efficiency and scientific rigor of compilation and revision, it is urgent to optimize computer aided lexicographical database platforms. Authoritative dictionaries should innovate their compilation and revision paradigms, accelerate the improvement of high quality content, and better meet social needs.

Key words

authoritative dictionaries / single character entries / multi character entries / semantic association

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Cheng Rong. Principles and Methods for Semantic Association Processing Between Single Character Entries and Multi Character Entries in Chinese Dictionaries#br#[J]. Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning. 2026, 11(3): 88-96 https://doi.org/10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20260307

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