Terminology development for lesser-used languages in bilingual contexts : the Maltese case

Abstract

The chapter discusses terminology in the complex linguistic landscape of Malta, highlighting the socio-historical development and bilingual dynamics of the Maltese language. The interplay between Maltese and English in contemporary society is examined with a focus on language use in education, media, and professional domains, to illustrate why Maltese terminology is mainly determined by the translation requirements of Maltese as an offical EU language. The chapter describes the different research and methodological perspectives of various local and EU bodies and their impact on standardisation in Maltese terminology. It also gives an account of the efforts to disseminate terminology in Maltese, the attitudes of end-users, and discusses the future prospects of terminology for the Maltese language.