A critical evaluation of the front matter: the case of Kriel, Pharos and Oxford Northern Sotho-English bilingual dictionaries

Abstract

Northern Sotho bilingual dictionaries have existed since the 1970s as a tool for learners, teachers and translators of that time to understand and comprehend the language better. This study provides different perspectives on how the front matter can affect the user-friendliness of the bilingual dictionary. This study evaluates the structure, content and presentation of the front matter in Kriel, Pharos and Oxford Northern Sotho-English bilingual dictionaries. Content analysis was used to evaluate the structure of the front matter among the three bilingual dictionaries. This article made use of the functional theory of lexicography. The theory advocates for a bilingual dictionary that provides a clear description and directive of how the target user should use it, with relevant and concise information. The analysis of the front matter focused on the details about the publication, the user manual and the length. It was identified that there are inconsistencies in the presentation of the front matter. The front matter of each dictionary has its successes and failures.