In:Handbook of Terminology: Volume 4. Terminology planning in Europe
Edited by Rossella Resi and Frieda Steurs
[Handbook of Terminology 4] 2025
► pp. 239–255
Terminology as cornerstone of language vitality and practical language policy
The Latvian case
Published online: 26 September 2025
https://doi.org/10.1075/hot.4.ter15
https://doi.org/10.1075/hot.4.ter15
Abstract
Terminology development in Latvia is a scientific and practical effort that is highly regulated
and standardised due to the role of terminology in fostering strong official language policy and vitality of the
Latvian language in all scientific and practical fields. This article gives an introduction into Latvian official
language policy and provides a detailed description of institutional mechanisms for the development of terminology as
well as practical and grammatical aspects that must be observed when developing Latvian terminology.
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.Language situation in Latvia
- 2.1Official language policy
- 2.2Role of terminology within language planning
- 3.Institutions standardising and developing terminology
- 3.1Historical development of terminology
- 3.2Status, structure, and decisions of institutions
- 3.3Publication and popularisation methods
- 3.4Collaboration between linguists and field experts
- 3.5Public engagement in development of terminology
- 3.6Suggestions for new terms in Latvian
- 3.7Popularisation of term suggestions and public attitude
- 4.Relationship with major contact languages
- 4.1Differences between the national and EU terminology
- 5.Term formation principles and methods
- 5.1Linguistic qualities of terms
- 5.2Systematic approach
- 5.3Term formation methods
- 5.3.1Loans
- 5.3.2Adaptation
- 5.3.3Explanation
- 5.3.4Translation
- 5.3.5Semantic change
- 5.3.6Compounding
- 6.Conclusions
Note References
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