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In:Handbook of Terminology: Volume 4. Terminology planning in Europe
Edited by Rossella Resi and Frieda Steurs
[Handbook of Terminology 4] 2025
► pp. 392–407

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Decentralised and expert-driven with a global reach

The English case

 | Université Laval
Published online: 26 September 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1075/hot.4.dec1
Abstract
English’s global reach in various specialised communication contexts (e.g., business, education, research, legislation) sets it apart from other languages as regards terminology planning. The English case is decentralised: multiple well-established varieties of English co-exist and no overarching body has taken charge of terminology planning. Instead, individual corporations, grassroots movements, and large supranational organisations all participate in terminology planning in English, with subject experts taking a leading role. Another notable feature of its global reach is that English is often a starting point for terminology planning in other languages. However, the lack of a single standardised version of English can lead to inconsistencies, both within terminology planning efforts in English and when other languages adopt different varieties as a starting point.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Some distinguishing features of the English case
    • 2.1The presence of other globally influential English-speaking regions
    • 2.2The use of English as a global language for specialised communication
    • 2.3The role of subject experts for primary term formation in English
    • 2.4The lack of a centralised body for language or terminology planning for English
  • 3.Approaches to terminology planning for English
    • 3.1Terminology planning in English by national organisations: The example of The British Standards Institute
    • 3.2Terminology planning in English by international organisations: The examples of the European Commission and the World Health Organization
      • 3.2.1European Commission
      • 3.2.2World Health Organization
    • 3.3Grassroots movements for terminology planning in English
    • 3.4Corporate terminology planning in English
  • 4.Conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
References (40)
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