Enhancing Semantic Accuracy in English-to-Arabic Translation Dictionaries: Addressing Common Linguistic and Conceptual Challenges in Al-Mawrid Dictionary by Baalbaki

Abstract

Al-Mawrid Dictionary by Baalbaki, a prominent resource for English-Arabic translation, faces notable challenges related to semantic accuracy and cultural localization due to evolving language usage and cultural transformations. This study aims to enhance the reliability and usability of the dictionary through a meticulous analytical investigation, contributing to advancements in both translation studies and lexicography. The study

addresses semantic inaccuracies and conceptual mismatches in some entries of Al-Mawrid, which remains widely used in academic and professional contexts. However, users frequently encounter difficulties in conveying the conceptual and contextual frameworks of modern cultural terms from English into Arabic. The study seeks to address these shortcomings by employing the Translation Quality Assessment model (House, 1997 & 2014) alongside the Semantic Frame model (Fillmore, 2006). A qualitative approach was adopted to analyze twenty contemporary English cultural terms, selected based on the absence of suitable Arabic equivalents. These terms were examined through their entries in Al-Mawrid and analysed in relation to their semantic and cultural functions within their original contexts to assess the adequacy of their translations in preserving meaning and conceptual framing. The findings reveal significant semantic limitations and cultural reduction in the investigated entries. Many translations fail to achieve functional equivalence or reflect the cultural dimension of the terms, such as feedback and burnout, while translations for contemporary terms like selfie and upcycling are entirely absent. Accordingly, the study recommends revising dictionary entries to include contextual explanations and illustrative examples, along with implementing regular updates to ensure linguistic and cultural relevance.