Perceptions of language service technologies and reference works by Chinese users in the era of generative AI

Abstract

As paper dictionaries, digital reference works, machine-translation systems, and emerging AI-based language tools increasingly coexist, there is a need to reassess how users evaluate these resources and what kinds of lexicographic support they now require. Drawing on user reviews and questionnaire data from over one thousand Chinese learners of advanced English, this study shows that, for most of these users, traditional paper and digital dictionaries are no longer perceived as sufficient for many of their real-world tasks. Instead, they express a growing demand for more adaptive and context-sensitive forms of lexical assistance. Beyond definitions, they expect support with authentic usage, genre- and domain-related terminology, and culturally-rich language needs. The findings also suggest that recent AI technologies may reshape lexicographic practice, raising questions about the future scope of lexicography and the role of lexicographers.