中式英语之鉴 读书笔记

Qyi

Reading Notes
Readeryi  
Reading Time: 3 days  
Reading Taskages 63-78 (Chapter on "Redundant Twins")  

Summary of the Content
This chapter focuses on the issue of "redundant twins" in Chinglish, which refers to the use of two words with very similar or identical meanings. These pairs can be nouns, verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, such as "help and assistance" or "discuss and debate."  
1. Definition and Classification of Redundant Twins
   Same Meaning: For example, "skills and abilities" or "discussions and deliberations."  
   Contained or Implied Meaning: For example, "best and thorough efforts" (where "best" implies "thorough").  
   Vague and General Meaning: For example, "healthy and sound" (where the two words are difficult to distinguish).  
2. Methods for Handling Redundant Twins
   Delete One Word: If two words have the same meaning, one can be removed (e.g., changing "correctly and properly" to "correctly").  
   Replace the Pair: If two words are similar but not precise, replace them with a more specific word (e.g., changing "consider and study" to "study").  
   Expand for Clarity: If two words cannot convey the full meaning alone, add words to clarify (e.g., changing "conditions and environment" to "working conditions and social environment").  
3. Origins and Cultural Context
   Redundant expressions are common in Chinese to avoid ambiguity or emphasize meaning, but they are often redundant in English.  
   Translators must decide whether to retain redundancy to stay faithful to the original text.  
4. Case Studies
   Verb Pairs: For example, "introduce and put into effect" (where "introduce" implies "put into effect").  
   Adjective Pairs: For example, "short and brief" (where the two words are identical in meaning).  
   Noun Pairs: For example, "steps and measures" (where the words are similar but not identical).  

Evaluation
The chapter is written in a clear and logical style, using numerous examples to illustrate the classification and handling of redundant twins. The author combines theoretical analysis with practical translation advice, making the content both accessible and highly useful.  

Reflection
This chapter has made me more aware of the need for sensitivity and judgment when handling redundant expressions in translation. While redundancy may be necessary in Chinese, English often requires conciseness and precision. This reminds me to strive for clarity in translation without losing essential meaning.  
Moreover, it has highlighted the importance of cultural context in language use. Understanding and respecting different linguistic habits is crucial in cross-cultural communication. This awareness is valuable not only in translation but also in everyday interactions across cultures.