Problems of Modern Terminology: Theoretical Approaches and Development Trends

The article analyzes the main theoretical approaches to the study of terms within the frame-work of modern terminology, outlines the current problems of this linguistic field and identifies its leading trends in the context of interdisciplinary and globalization changes. It is proved that modern terminology covers both theoretical and applied aspects, offering a multidirectional methodological framework. The main areas of terminology studies are identified, among which theoretical, cognitive, functional, historical and applied ones occupy a leading place. It is proved that the cognitive approach allows us to comprehend the term not only as a linguistic unit, but also as a representative of conceptual knowledge reflected in mental models. It is clarified that the functional vector of the study provides an analysis of the pragmatic potential of terms in professional discourse, which contributes to the optimization of communication in the scientific environment. It has been found that the term theory of text provides an opportunity to study the structural organization of term-rich texts within different functional styles. It has been established that applied terminology, in particular terminography and standardization of terms, contributes to the unification of terminology systems, increasing the efficiency of communication in industry areas. The author outlines the formation of three research paradigms - traditional, functional and cognitive - which reflect the evolution of the methodological approach to the study of terms. It has been found that the leading methods of terminological analysis are descriptive, comparative, component, logical-semantic, contextual, etc., which provide a multilevel comprehension of the language material. It is determined that the synergistic model of the terminological theory requires taking into account external linguistic factors, in particular, socio-cultural, legal and technological ones. It is concluded that the term should be considered as a communicative tool capable of reflecting linguistic, cognitive and socio-cultural characteristics.