Terminological studies as domain analysis

Abstract

This paper aims to thoroughly analyze terminological studies as a particular modality of domain analysis (DA). To this end, we establish the following methodological sequence: i) a broad description of the field of terminology, with emphasis on a general characterization of the theoretical currents and the two traditional types of research: systematic research and punctual research; ii) review of the background information on the theoretical and methodological intersection between terminology and knowledge organization (KO); iii) the problematization of terminological studies seen as DA, based on the study of background information and a series of trigger questions. The answers to these questions will allow us to progress in their understanding. The results show the need to further define the profile of terminological studies to use them in KO better. They also suggest considering terminological studies as a separate DA category, specifically in relation to language for special purposes (LSP) and discourse analysis. Finally, the preliminary conclusions will guide future research in the field. In particular, we stress that terminological research methods seem not to be sufficiently recognized as suitable for application in KO.