Subject-Specific Vocabulary and its Stratification: the Case of Aviation English

The primary focus of the paper is on providing basic characteristics of subject-specific vocabulary classes and stratifying Aviation English vocabulary. Aviation English which serves for professional communication uses discipline-specific vocabulary which defines and transfers professional knowledge. The first part of the paper investigates the most commonly distinguished classes of lexis within the subject-specific vocabulary. They are stated to be terms, semi-technical vocabulary, professionalisms, professional slang and jargon, nomenclature names. Each class is presented in more detail in the second part of the paper. Peculiar features of every class of items are determined in order to enable differentiation from all other groups of lexis. The third part focuses on Aviation English vocabulary stratification. Taking into account the research already existing on the issue and having conducted its critical analysis as well as having thoroughly studied Aviation lexicographical issues and electronic-based aviation word lists, the authors present their view on Aviation English vocabulary stratification providing examples of lexis within each group. 6 groups of lexical items in Aviation English vocabulary are distinguished by the authors: 1) basic aviation concepts; 2) general scientific and interdisciplinary terms; 3) semi-technical vocabulary; 4) nomenclature names (nomens); 5) codes; 6) professional slang and jargon