Abstract

Legal language is characterized by its high degree of preciseness, formality and professionalization. Therefore, it is essential to practice abide by preliminary principles and techniques under the instruction of the theory concerning legal text translation. The main purpose of the thesis is to expound how to accomplish parallel texts having equivalent force of law with original texts. The thesis introduces the conceptual basis for legal text translation and features of legal language. It explains dual functional equivalence theory. It also specifies principles and techniques of legal text translation. Those are important for not only precisely translating and applying legal provisions, but also correctly understanding legal contracts in trade.

Keywords: force of law; Dual Functional Equivalence; principles; techniques

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

2.Literature Review2

3.Legal Language3

3.1 Characteristics of legal language..3

3.2 Statutory definitions and literal definitions.4

3.3 Procedures of translating legal language..5

4.Dual Functional Equivalence .5

4.1 Equivalence in linguistic effects.6

4.2 Equivalence in legal effects....6

4.3 Application of principle of dual functional equivalence7

5. Principles of Legal Text Translation7

5.1 Accuracy and preciseness.7

5.2 Clearness and concision..8

5.3 Consistency.8

6. Techniques of Legal Text Translation....8

6.1 Conforming to the characteristics and expression habit of legal language.9

6.2 Insuring target texts’ vocabularies have the same legal meanings with source texts.9

6.3 Seeking common points while reserving difference.9

6.4 Contextualization10

6.5 Discovering Legislative Intents12

7. Conclusion 13

Works Cited.15