PROPOSAL FOR LEXICOGRAPHIC DEFINITION FOR SPANISH VERBS AND ADJECTIVES

Although the traditional lexical dictionary has not thus far systematically introduced information on the manner in which the lexical units of a language must or can be combined, it seems possible to argue that such a task can in fact be implemented by resorting to a powerful device, namely the "contour" of the lexicographic definition. In fact, it is our contention that, in so far as this notion is fully apprehended and effectively implemented, it could make a lexicographic dictionary into a useful and efficient reference tool which besides accounting for word meaning may be able to give an account of lexemes' combinatorial potential. That is, within the definition of lexical entries, the lexicographer could provide the key to lexemes' projection to syntax.