The Semi-Algorithmic Approach to Formation of Latvian Information and Communication Technology Terms

Abstract

. Information and Communication Technology terms are mainly formed in English and then secondary–formed in other languages. Because of the differences in the morphological and term–formation traditions in various languages, the results of secondary term formation tend to be somewhat chaotic. Latvia’s Information and Communication Technology terminologists and linguists have developed a rather rigorous, semi–algorithmic approach to term formation that has been approbated for over thirty years. This paper aims to describe this approach and show its viability on an example of the most commonly used terms. We also analyse the usage of the officially approved terms in texts and the possible reasons why they sometimes encounter resistance from everyday users. In conclusion, we summarise the research regarding the current situation in the secondary ICT terminology in Latvian and provide insight into possibilities for further development.