Building Terminology in the Kadazandusun Language

Abstract

In 1995, the Kadazandusun language was created as a standard form of all the Dusunic group of languages so that it might be taught in schools as a language subject. In the planning of Kadazandusun, terminology building involves both the creation of new terms that appropriate present-day categories and artefacts, and the selection of suitable terminology from a large pool of vocabularies. While the former task involves the more technical aspects of borrowing and word compounds, the latter is principle based and criteria dependent: Which terms should be selected out of the variety of language choices and on what basis? Based on interviews with members of the Kadazandusun terminology committee, this account of Kadazandusun terminology development examines the criteria set to govern selections; how cultural knowledge and values affect decision making; the resistance to borrowing dependency; the place of terminology within the Kadazandusun language plan; and the setting-up of a terminology panel. Language planning in the area of terminology development for the minority and indigenous Kadazandusun shows that while terminology discussions centre on making appropriate choices, the task itself is a complex one and requires language planners to be positive and committed if a terminology database is to be developed.

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