Official unveiling of the Oxford Qazaq Dictionary in Great Britain

25 January 2024

The Oxford Qazaq Dictionary represents a collaborative lexical initiative between Oxford Languages Network and the National Bureau of Translations in Kazakhstan. Developed using the methodology and technology of the globally renowned Oxford Dictionaries, which are most trusted around the world. The compilation of this dictionary spanned four years, involving the expertise of over 50 linguists specializing in the lexicons of both Kazakh and English languages.

The first edition of the Kazakh-English and English-Kazakh Oxford Qazaq Dictionary was developed by the National Translation Bureau and the International Society "Qazaq tili" under the direction of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The dictionary received official approval from the globally renowned Oxford University Press and was released in a print run of 10,000 copies.

This inaugural edition of the Oxford Qazaq Dictionary encompasses over 60,000 words across 1300 pages. To enhance user convenience, a diverse array of concepts, along with literal and alternative meanings of the same word, are arranged based on the frequency of usage.

In creating the dictionary, changes in the lexicons of both Kazakh and English languages were taken into account, especially those related to the latest developments in modern culture, information technology, medicine, economics, finance, and trade. Moreover, the dictionary includes concise instructions explaining the rules of English and Kazakh grammar, pronunciation, and spelling. Examples of conducting business and electronic correspondence in the Kazakh language are also provided.

Based on this dictionary, the Kazakh language is set to be integrated into the Oxford Global Languages platform. The primary objective of this initiative is to establish a shared global language corpus that brings together dictionaries of the 100 most essential and foundational languages worldwide. The Oxford Qazaq Dictionary solidifies the position of the Kazakh language within the largest and most authoritative lexical network, offering an opportunity to become part of the global linguistic community.

Published with a print run of 10,000 copies, the dictionary received support from Freedom Holding Corp., a conglomerate specializing in financial operations, retail brokerage services, investment consulting, securities trading, as well as providing investment banking and underwriting services through its subsidiaries. The common shares of the holding are currently traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market and KASE. Timur Turlov, a Kazakh entrepreneur and financier, serves as the founder of the holding.

The dictionary is already available in the libraries of educational institutions across the country and is accessible for purchase in bookstores.

Additional Information:

The International Society «Qazaq Tili» was established on September 22, 1989, and stands as the largest public organization in Kazakhstan devoted to the advancement of the Kazakh language and culture. This commitment extends to the integration of cutting-edge technologies in language teaching and usage.

Oxford University Press holds the distinction of being the largest publishing house in the United Kingdom. The financial turnover of the organization surpasses even the combined figures of leading American publishers and Cambridge University Press. With branches in 60 countries worldwide, Oxford University Press plays a pivotal role in shaping the global cultural and educational landscape.