REPRESENTING CULTURE THROUGH DICTIONARIES: MACRO AND MICROSTRUCTURAL ANALYSES

Abstract

This study examines how general English and Uzbek dictionaries represent culture through macro structural and microstructural features. Drawing on cultural linguistics and lexicographic theory, the research demonstrates that dictionaries are culturally embedded artifacts rather than neutral repositories of meanings. Using a comparative, descriptive methodology, the analysis investigates headword selection, organizational principles, definitions, examples, usage labels, and explanatory notes in major English and Uzbek monolingual, bilingual and learner’s dictionaries. The results show that cultural representation is shaped by historical context, ideological priorities and differing lexicographic traditions.