Abstract

The Chinese-English translation of TEM-8 is a test of students’ comprehensive application of language. It is not only a test for students’ Chinese language level, but a test of English application ability of English major students after four years of professional learning. Practice has proved that in the four years of English learning process, students ignore the learning of Chinese language so as to there are some problems in the understanding of Chinese words and sentences. Meanwhile, Chinese-English translation test reflects various typical errors caused by the interference of native language and other reasons in students’ English expression process. Here, this thesis, mainly analyzes some typical errors students made in C-E translation of TEM-8 from linguistic perspective, culture perspective and other personal reasons. In terms of linguistic perspective, there are errors like lacking vocabulary, misusing of morphology and parts of speech, spelling mistakes; errors in sentence structure conversion; incorrect tense and syntax errors. In terms of culture perspective, due to cultural differences between China and foreign countries, students may have bias towards understanding. In addition, the difference in students’ ability of personal competence is also the important reason for the difference in the score. And by analyzing and exploring the origin of these errors, some effective solutions should be come up with to improve students’ capacity and skills of C-E translation for better translation quality and increase the passing rate of TEM-8 examination. For instance, in teaching aspect, teachers should carry out courses on TEM-8 and check students vocabulary and mastery degree of TEM-8 regularly. Students should focus on their Chinese language literacy, enrich their knowledge and broaden their horizons so as to understand the original text.

Finally, the essay reaches a conclusion about the translation of Chinese-English in the hope of providing little for the translation of such issues in TEM-8.

Key words: Chinese-English translation; TEM-8; linguistic perspective; cultural perspective; individual reason.

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

1 Introduction-1

  1.1 Purpose of the Research-1

  1.2 Significance of the Research-1

  1.3 Layout of the Research-2

2 Literature Review-2

3 Influential Factors of Translation-4

  3.1 Linguistic Factors-4

  3.1.1 Vocabulary-4

  3.1.2 Sentence-5

  3.1.3 Grammar-8

  3.2 Culture Factors-10

  3.2.1 The Differences Between Cultures-10

  3.2.2 Style of Cultural Expression-11

  3.2.3 Political Reasons-12

  3.3 Personal Factors-13

  3.3.1 Lack of Translation Skills-13

  3.3.2 Lack of Background Knowledge-13

4 Methods to Improve C-E Translation-15

  4.1 Advice on Instruction of English Major-15

  4.2 Strategies Adopted by Students-16

  4.2.1 Good understanding of the Original Chinese Text-16

  4.2.2 Good Expression With English Skillfully-16

  4.2.3 Good Command of the Differences Between Two Languages-18

5 Conclusion-19

References-20