Structural Analysis of Specialised Dictionary of Islamic Terms: Implications for Future Design

This study examines the microstructure of several selected specialised dictionaries of Islamic terms in Islamic studies. This study focuses on the arrangement and format of entries found in the dictionaries to identify aspects that can be improved and to improve the quality of producing specialised dictionary of Islamic terms. Specialised dictionaries are important in providing accurate definitions and explanations of terms specific to a particular field. It can help students and non-speakers of the source language in the field of knowledge to understand concepts accurately. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyses three specialised dictionaries of Islamic terms to assess consistency, effectiveness and accessibility through structural analysis of the terms compiled in the dictionaries. The study findings show that the dictionaries successfully provide definitions and explanations of the terms, but can still be improved regarding the arrangement and presentation of entries, as well as the density of information in the definitions provided. The study recommends a more systematic microstructure arrangement to information presentation in specialised dictionaries of Islamic terms to enhance their usefulness and effectiveness based on the users’ level of language skills and knowledge on the subject matter. Subsequently, it can reduce the language and information gap in assisting the acquisition of knowledge in Islamic studies.