In this article, we consider the problems normally associated with bilingual phraseography and the paradigm that should be used to guide its development. We first present the fundamental aspects that should be taken into account in the characterization of bilingual phraseography. Secondly, we give a general overview of both theoretical and practical bilingual phraseography, paying special attention to the main problems existing in this area. Thirdly, we consider the factors that can determine the development of bilingual phraseography, starting from the notion of the “user needs paradigm” and the contributions from the Function Theory of Lexicography. Finally, we make a brief summary of the main ideas dealt with in the article.