Transformation of the Lexicographic Paradigm in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The present study arises from a critical reflection on the transformations underway in contemporary lexicography, driven by the pervasive integration of artificial intelligence throughout all phases of the dictionary lifecycle. Its objectives are twofold: first, to identify emerging trajectories in modern lexicographic practice, and second, to detect paradigm shifts within lexicography as a discipline in the context of widespread LLM adoption. By exploring the convergence of natural and artificial intelligence, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the new lexicographic reality currently taking shape. The study examines how the transition from purely digital to intelligent digital technologies affects the structural, substantive, procedural, pragmatic, and parametric dimensions of dictionary systems. In addition, it seeks to characterize the various manifestations – or hypostases – of the dictionary that define the contemporary lexicographic landscape. Attention is also given to the evolving role of the lexicographer as a subjective agent, and to the prospective directions in which lexicographic practices may develop. As part of its conceptual contribution, the paper introduces the terms sustainable lexicography and eco-lexicography (both borrowed from English) into Russian-language academic discourse – terms that, to the best of the author’s knowledge, have not previously appeared in this context. The theoretical framework draws on scholarship by Russian and international researchers in lexicography, computational linguistics, and corpus linguistics. The empirical focus is primarily on English-language dictionaries, dictionary portals, and aggregators. Particular attention is devoted to the lexicographic potential of AI-driven tools, especially intelligent chatbots. The methodological approach integrates several analytical procedures: theoretical linguistic analysis of the relevant literature, comparative analysis, critical evaluation of dictionary content, semantic and contextual analysis, and generalization. It is anticipated that the findings will offer new insights into the evolving practices of dictionary creation and use, and will support a balanced consideration of the advantages and limitations inherent in human-AI collaboration in future lexicographic work.