Lexical Feature Variation in L1 vs. L2 Chinese Dictionary Definitions: A Multi-dimensional Analysis

Abstract This study applies the Multi-dimensional Analysis (MDA) approach to compare the linguistic features of definitions in an L1 dictionary (The Contemporary Chinese Dictionary) and an L2 dictionary (JUZI Chinese), based on a self-compiled corpus of over 370,000 words. A total of 57 lexical features were examined across six dimensions to systematically investigate how definitions differ between the two dictionaries. The results reveal significant linguistic variation, reflecting the distinct functions and target users of each resource. Specifically, The Contemporary Chinese Dictionary employs more uncommon and diverse vocabulary, characterized by formality, conciseness, a general spatiotemporal orientation, and a technical style, while JUZI Chinese features more common and restricted vocabulary, characterized by informality, elaboration, a concrete spatiotemporal orientation, and a nontechnical style. The most prominent differences appear in the five key dimensions: Common vs. Uncommon Vocabulary, Diverse Vocabulary vs. Restricted Vocabulary, Informal vs. Formal Style, Concise vs. Elaborate Definition, and Concrete Spatiotemporal vs. General Spatiotemporal Word Choice. These findings provide empirical insight into how L1 and L2 dictionaries implement their editorial principles, and demonstrate the value of MDA for assessing definitional variation in lexicographical practice.