Contents

Acknowledgments

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Background of This Study-1

1.2 Significance of This Study-1

1.3 Literature Review-2

1.4 The Composition of the Thesis-2

Chapter Two Theoretical Basis-3

2.1 Definition of Skopos Theory-3

2.2 Development of Skopos Theory-3

Chapter Three Problems in TCMI Translation-5

3.1 Contents and Language Features of TCMI-5

3.2 The C-E Translating Frustration of TCMI-6

3.2.1 Problems on Linguistic Level-6

3.2.2 Problems on Cultural Level-7

Chapter Four Strategies for English Translation of TCMI in the Light of Skopos Theory-8

4.1 Feasibility of Skopos Theory to TCMI Translation-8

4.2 Translation Strategies of TCMI-9

4.2.1 Translation Strategies of Ingredients-10

4.2.2 Translation Strategies of Language Efficiency-11

Chapter Five Conclusion-13

References-14

Abstract

With the increasing communication and exchange between China and foreign countries in traditional Chinese medicine (Here in after referred to as TCM), TCM is provided with unprecedented opportunities in the global competitions, making TCM products more and more popular worldwide. TCM, as the cultural treasure of the Chinese nation, is popular with people at home and abroad due to its good clinical effects and insignificant toxicity. So the translation of traditional Chinese medicine instructions(Here in after referred to as TCMI) is playing the role of a bridge in the process of globalization of traditional Chinese medicine. While the mistranslation of the TCMI results in suspicion and even prejudice about the security, validity and reliability of TCM in the minds of foreign consumers, leading to the obstruction of the TCM sale in the international market. Therefore, it is an arduous and urgent task for translators to translate the TCMI properly and provide effective drug information for customers.

In this thesis, a study of C-E translation of TCMI is made to provide translation strategies under the framework of skopos theory. Firstly, an introduction to TCMI and skopos theory is made. Secondly, an analysis of the problems and reasons in the translation process from linguistic and cultural level are presented. Thirdly, the feasible translation strategies will be illustrated in the light of Hans Vermeer's skopos theory by giving some authentic examples. Finally, a tentative conclusion is made and some suggestions for future research are offered.

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Keywords: traditional Chinese medicine instructions (TCMI); skopos theory; C-E translation; translation strategies