The term RISK in project management: Equivalence and terminographic modelling across selected languages

Abstract

This study aims to examine terminology in the field of project management across English, Slovak, Spanish, Italian, and German, and to propose a model for entries in a multilingual project management lexicon that ensures conceptual accuracy even in cases of asymmetrical equivalence or the absence of a direct equivalent. The research is grounded in international terminological standards, including ISO 704 (2009), ISO 1087 (2019), and ISO 21506 (2024), as well as the theory of equivalence (Cabré, 1999) and contemporary approaches to terminology and terminography (Bergenholtz & Tarp, 2003; COTSOES, 2003). Within a case study framework, we have  applied the method of componential analysis to the concept of risk to validate the terminographic entry model that aligns with ISO standards. Based on the results of analysis,  the study proposes a model for lexicon entries that is compatible with ISO standards and provides recommendations for translators, terminographers, and project managers. The proposed model offers a systematic framework for the development of specialized project management dictionaries and underscores the necessity for open-access, regularly updated, and internationally harmonized terminological databases to support effective collaboration in global project environments.