A conceptual vocabulary for semantic engineering
The BSI Lexicon develops a structured and evolving conceptual vocabulary for semantic engineering, artificial intelligence and related fields of research.
It is not intended as a conventional dictionary or as a repository of definitive definitions. Its purpose is to examine established terminology, clarify conceptual distinctions, identify relations between terms, and investigate areas in which existing conceptual frameworks may require further differentiation or development.
Some entries address concepts already established in linguistics, philosophy, logic, artificial intelligence, law or other disciplines. Others examine emerging terminology or develop distinctions and provisional concepts arising from BSI’s own research.
Terminological Method & Standards
Terminological clarification precedes conceptual extension.
The BSI Lexicon distinguishes established terminology from emerging usage and from concepts, distinctions or extensions proposed within BSI’s own research.
Its terminological work is informed by internationally recognised principles and standards, including ISO 704:2022 for terminology work,ISO 1087:2019 for terminology science and vocabulary, and, where artificial intelligence is concerned, ISO/IEC 22989:2022 for AI concepts and terminology. Relevant European, sector-specific and domain standards are additionally examined where applicable.
For each substantial entry, BSI first investigates established definitions, disciplinary usage, terminological history, neighbouring concepts, relevant literature and applicable standards. A BSI-specific distinction or conceptual extension is introduced only where this prior analysis identifies a problem that existing terminology does not adequately resolve.
Research Status & Interpretive Caution
The Lexicon is a research instrument, not an authority of final definition.
Definitions and distinctions presented in the BSI Lexicon reflect the state of the literature, standards and conceptual analysis examined at the time of publication. Where terminology is established, BSI seeks to represent existing usage as accurately as possible while acknowledging disciplinary variation and competing definitions.
Where BSI proposes a distinction, interpretation or conceptual extension, it is explicitly presented as a research proposal rather than as an authoritative or universally accepted definition.
Lexicon entries may therefore be revised as terminology evolves, new literature or standards emerge, conceptual difficulties are identified, or alternative interpretations provide stronger explanatory value.
The purpose of the Lexicon is not to close terminological discussion, but to make it more precise.
Browse the lexicon
Entries are added progressively. Select a letter to browse available concepts.
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