Geology, encyclopedic dictionary

1999/06/13 Kilden, Pette

• Geologia

In other languages we will explain this small introductory revolt, already consolidated. The rocks are divided into three large groups: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Since these are the main divisions, in each group there are several subgroups, so there are several types of sedimentary rock. For example, within the sedimentary rocks of organic or biogenic origin are hydrocarbons, that is, oil and natural gas. Therefore, natural gas is a type of rock. Could we say that this gas is of stone if by definition the stone is a solid, resistant and of diverse chemical composition? It is clear that no, so the rock and stone are not the same. And if not, look at French, Spanish or English, in the dictionary you will find all the payments. Each word must have a concrete meaning to produce a communication in the Sciences, that is, that the Tower Babel does not occur.

Scientists are speakers of differentiated language. This language allows the exchange of ideas as accurate as possible with other scientists in the same area. However, these specialized languages in the different areas of Science must adapt to one's own language, since they are formed only by special words, so it is necessary to integrate them into common languages. For example, tectonics, stratigraphy, mineral and fossil are typical words of Geology, although they often become words of the street, as it happens with the dinosaur, plate tectonics and oil. Therefore, when introducing the words of Geology in the Basque Country, we must be continually present in the fact that we speak of words with a specific language, with terms of fixed and concrete meaning. For this insertion, of course, the Basque language has several tools, but its use is not easy. Already forgotten, marginalized or in a small region, the appropriate words for the Specialized Basque are for the Specialized Basque, but it is not always enough. Purists would only accept words in Basque form, but other extremes would drive any loan, with their original writing. Wisdom is based on balance.

But here someone would ask me: What is the Basque Dictionary of Geology for? We are in the year 2000 and so far we have lived with total tranquility this dictionary. Do we need so much Geology?

Let us not forget that Geology is one of the most basic sciences. Through it we begin to know the deep Sima of Time, the complicated transit of Life and the complex machine of the World. Geology, however, is the basic pillar of the economy of our society. Where would we be without metals, asphalt, gasoline, cement, plastic, underground water, building materials, fertilizers, etc. ? I do not say that all natural resources are geological, no, but somehow all this type of resources is based on Earth. Land delivery and land withdrawal. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods are often harmful to individuals. We face geology through knowledge. For this purpose, teaching is the most basic tool. And those of us who work in Basque teaching have so far been in need of this dictionary. The illusion and need have thrown away the heavy chariot of this dictionary. In total, seven years and the sweat of twenty companions have finished with this load to the dock of the editorial. There is the flower and the fruit. Suggest aloud what you can taste and improve, instead of silencing. As in the cycle of the rocks, the vocabulary is used and are put in place, the sediment of the words is transported, and those that remain are accumulated and fixed, in order to facilitate the space of the dictionary.

Despite being left behind, Ongi Etorri Euskara to the newborn and Zorionak, to the exhausted and hopeful parents after a long childbirth!

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