Editing Multi-field dictionary (section)

{{Short description|Specialized dictionary}}
{{Unreferenced|date=December 2009}}
[[File:A supplement to Ures Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures, and Mines, - containing a clear exposition of their principles and practice. (1864) (14595192618).jpg|thumb|''Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures, and Mines'']]

A '''multi-field dictionary''' is a [[specialized dictionary]] that has been designed and compiled to cover the terms within two or more subject fields. Multi-field dictionaries should be contrasted with [[single-field dictionary|single-field dictionaries]] and [[sub-field dictionary|sub-field dictionaries]]. The typology consisting of these three dictionaries is important for a number of reasons. First of all, a multi-field dictionary is an example of the ordinary technical dictionary, covering numerous subject fields, e.g. banking, economics, finance, insurance and marketing.

The main problem with multi-field dictionaries is that they tend to cover one or two subjects extensively, whereas the vast majority of subject are only represented by a limited number of terms.

Secondly, the typical multi-field dictionary tends to be a [[minimizing dictionary]], i.e. it covers only a limited number of terms within the subjects covered.

Thirdly, if the [[lexicographer]]s intend to make a bilingual, maximizing multi-field dictionary they run into problems with the large amount of data that has to be included in the dictionary.

Consequently, the best coverage of linguistic and extra-linguistic aspects within the subject field covered by a dictionary will be found in a [[single-field dictionary]].