中式英语阅读之鉴chapter1&2读书笔记

油炸绿番茄

Summary of the Content:
Chapter1: Unnecessary Nouns and Verbs
The first chapter delves into the issue of unnecessary nouns and verbs in writing, emphasizing that removing these elements can clarify the intended meaning without loss of information. The author identifies category nouns as the most frequent type of unnecessary words in Chinglish. The discussion then proceeds to highlight two primary scenarios:

 Unnecessary verb + noun : Phrases like "make every effort to" are dissected to show how they can be simplified without sacrificing clarity.

 Unnecessary verb + unnecessary noun + third word : Examples such as "try our best to" are used to demonstrate how verbosity can be reduced to improve readability.

The author, however, acknowledges that there are situations where these structures should be retained, depending on the context and intent of the original text.

Chapter2: Unnecessary Modifiers
In the second chapter, the focus shifts to unnecessary modifiers, which the author categorizes into five types:

 Redundant modifiers : These include obvious redundancies, adverbs of time, and the overuse of "various." For instance, phrases like "various types of" are often unnecessary and can be eliminated without affecting the meaning.

 Self-evident modifiers : Words that inherently carry the meaning of an adjective, making additional modifiers redundant. For example, "readjustment" inherently implies a proper adjustment, so adding "proper" is superfluous.

 Intensifiers : The misuse of intensifiers with both weak and strong words is addressed. Common redundant intensifiers like "active/actively" and "effective/effectively" are highlighted as areas where writers can streamline their language.

 Qualifiers : These are examined, particularly how they can lead to overexplanation and dilute the impact of a sentence.

 Clichés : The chapter also discusses clichés and their tendency to weaken the originality and effectiveness of writing.

The author stresses that the decision to retain or remove these modifiers depends on the context and the specific situation in which they are used.

2.Evaluation
The author's writing style is remarkably engaging and accessible. The use of vivid and creative metaphors, such as comparing unnecessary words to a writer "clearing their throat before coming to the point," makes the content more relatable and memorable. This approach not only simplifies complex concepts but also adds a layer of humor and wit, making the learning process enjoyable. The clarity and directness of the language ensure that readers can easily follow the arguments and examples presented.
The author provides a wealth of rich and typical examples to illustrate the points being made. These examples are not only relevant but also well-explained, making it easier for readers to understand the concepts being discussed. The inclusion of real-world examples adds a practical dimension to the chapters, helping readers to see how the principles can be applied in their own writing.
3.Reflection
Personal Writing
One of the most significant takeaways from these chapters is the realization of how many redundant expressions I have unknowingly used in my writing. For instance, phrases like "make every effort to" and "try our best to" were once staples in my writing, but now I understand that they can often be simplified without losing meaning. This has led me to be more mindful of my word choices and to actively seek out unnecessary words and modifiers in my drafts. The result is a more concise and effective writing style that better conveys my intended message.
The author's comment at the end of Chapter 1 about translation software—“they cannot distinguish between meaningful and meaningless uses of the same phrase. That is the difference between you and a machine”—resonates deeply. In the era of AI and machine learning, where algorithms can generate text and perform translations, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of these tools. While they can be incredibly useful, they lack the nuanced understanding and critical judgment that humans possess. This realization underscores the importance of maintaining and developing human writing skills, as they remain irreplaceable in ensuring clarity, precision, and effectiveness in communication.