Terminology as a Strategic Support Tool in Crisis Situations such as the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the introduction of numerous terms not fully understandable to ordinary citizens. Time pressure forced us to communicate about large numbers of new concepts, necessitating concept clarification. The aim of this article is demonstrate the usefulness of the traditional terminological method and of terminological ontologies as strategic support tools in crisis situations. Terminological ontologies are advanced concept systems extended by subdivision criteria and characteristics. The article describes fundamental aspects of the traditional terminological method in respect of the interrelation between generic concept systems or terminological ontologies and definitions to ensure qualitative terminological results. Three types of definitions are suggested to meet the needs of the general public. Finally, arguments are provided for the claim that the traditional terminological method as such, in combination with concept systems and terminological ontologies in their capacity of visualisations, may act as strategic support tools. The illustrations are excerpts from a prototype of a Danish terminological ontology of ‘testing’ related to COVID-19.