The German Sign Language (DGS) - German dictionary will be the first comprehensive corpus-based dictionary of DGS. The development of the dictionary is an important step in the documentation, research and teaching of German Sign Language. It is going to be a basic reference point for all those who use this language or are interested in it. It will document the usage of signs in context and will therefore be of significant practical benefit for several user groups.

Target audience

The dictionary addresses different target audiences. Among those are learners of DGS with German as their first language such as parents of Deaf children, late Deaf signers, hearing people working with the Deaf and sign language interpreters. It has equally benefits for native signers. People who are theoretically and practically studying the structure of DGS, e.g. sign language teachers or linguists, are also a part of the target audience.

Characteristics

The dictionary will be developed on the basis of a wide collection of data from all over Germany. The description of signs is based on the analysis of their usage in various contexts. The dictionary shall fulfil several interests and offers therefore different views of the contained information. It will also offer different possibilities of usage and the searching of words so that, for example, all information will be accessible in both languages (German and DGS).

Final product

The dictionary is expected to be produced electronically in 2023. To cope with users desires to the planned dictionary a user survey will be carried out in 2011. You will find more information about the survey on this site.