Part one

木清酒汤汤

Focusing on "Unnecessary Words," this part tackles the most persistent challenge for Chinese English learners: redundancy. Through numerous bilingual examples, the authors expose how Chinese linguistic patterns invisibly distort English writing—such as redundant category nouns (e.g., “problem,” “aspect”), synonym stacking (e.g., “carefully consider and deliberate”), and empty phrases (e.g., “the fact that”). These issues stem from mechanically transplanting Chinese grammar and logic into English, resulting in bloated language that strays from English’s inherent conciseness. The principles of “eliminating redundancy” and “using direct language” proposed in the book are not mere linguistic tricks but a form of cognitive training, pushing learners to break free from their native language framework and reconstruct expressions through English logic. Particularly commendable is the authors’ approach: they go beyond theoretical critique by incorporating intensive contrastive exercises, guiding readers to develop an intuitive self-editing ability through practice. This three-dimensional model of “examples + methodology + exercises” elevates the book beyond a typical grammar manual, transforming it into a practical guide for cultivating authentic English sensibility.

The success of this section lies in its “diagnostic teaching method.” The authors act as linguistic doctors: first dissecting typical “symptoms” (e.g., “accelerate the pace of reform”), then prescribing concise solutions (“accelerate reform”), and finally allowing readers to perform “surgical” exercises themselves. This pedagogy is not only efficient but profoundly enlightening: it teaches learners that language refinement is not abstract theory but stems from rigorously questioning the necessity of every word. Furthermore, the examples span formal writing and daily communication, highlighting the universality of Chinglish issues. For instance, the contrast between “solve the problem of pollution” and “solve pollution” vividly demonstrates English’s verb-centric nature, whereas Chinese relies on “category noun + verb” structures. Such comparisons not only help readers correct errors but also deepen their understanding of Sino-English cognitive differences, laying a foundation for cross-cultural communication.

Overall, the value of this section extends far beyond that of an error-correcting manual. It is a profound exploration of the relationship between language and cognition, challenging learners to confront native language interference and reshape their English expression through “deletion” and “reconstruction.” The recurring theme—*brevity is power*—encapsulates the golden rule of English writing. For anyone striving to shed “translationese” and pursue authentic English, this section serves as an essential primer.