中国人易犯的英汉翻译错误
中国人易范的英汉翻译错误

中国人最容易犯的英汉翻译错误》(一)一个词变成一个句著名翻译家奈达说,“翻译就是翻译意思”。
言外之意,翻译一句话不能逐一翻译一串个别的单词,也不是翻译某种句子结构。
初学翻译的人之所以译得不好,就是因为摆脱不了原文各个单词和句子结构的影响,总觉得英语中每一个词译成汉语都是一个词。
殊不知,为了说明原文的意思,有时候要将一个词译成几个词,乃至一个短句。
这就是翻译中对某些词的‘增益’。
例如,英语中有些单词相当于汉语的一个词组:read“看书”,drive“开车”,giggle“咯咯地笑”,stumble“蹒跚而行”,等等。
这些相对而言还比较简单,一般英汉词典上都能查得到。
再如,英语句子中有大量的“副词+动词”的结构(副词也可能在动词之后)。
在不少情况下这种结构可以译成汉语“副词+动词”的偏正结构(汉语中副词修饰动词时只能放在动词之前),许多人往往用“……地”来译所有的英语副词,如:(1)They were patiently listening to him. 他们在耐心地听他讲。
(2)He quickly stood up. 他很快地站起来。
(3)I will gladly join you in the work. 我会乐意地和你一起工作。
这三句中都用了“地”字结构,第一句还可以,后两句就显得有点“翻译腔”,“地”字似乎可以省去,可分别改译为:“他很快站起来”和“我乐意和你一起工作”。
但是这三句中的副词和动词仍然译成了偏正结构,这是因为三句中的副词表示的是动作的方式。
但是,是不是英语中所有的这种结构都可以这么译呢?请大家考虑一下下面这一句应如何翻译:This is a NATO matter and any comment on it should appropriately come from NATO.将appropriately come from NATO译成“合适地来自北约”显然不通。
从意义上看,appropriately与其说是表示动作come的方式,还不如说是表示其结果,因此该词应抽出来放到后面,将此句译为:这是北约的问题,关于此问题的评论应由北约做出,这才是适宜的。
中国人学英语常犯错误

中国人学英语常犯错误1Chinese Style: It was so late there was no taxi.American Style: It was so late that there was no taxi available.Chinese Style: Your coat is broken.American Style: Your coat is torn.Chinese Style: Let me help you to do your work. American Style: Let me help you with your work.Chinese Style: Susan didn’t make a fault anyway. American Style: Susan didn’t make a mistake anyway. Chinese Style: He becomes better.American Style: He got better.Chinese Style: I recommend you to take a long vacation. American Style: I recommend that you take a long vacation. Chinese Style: The last bus leaves at eleven o’clock. It’s about eleven now, Hurry up !American Style: The last bus leaves at eleven o’clock. It’s nearly eleven now, Hurry up !Chinese Style: It was still bright outside.American Style: It was still light outside.Chinese Style: The hall can seat two hundred people. American Style: The hall seats two hundred people. Chinese Style: Anywhere will do.American Style: Any place will do.Chinese Style: Wait here please, I’ll come back in a minute. American Style: Wait here please, I’ll be back in a minute. Chinese Style: I am uncomfortable.American Style: I don’t feel well.Chinese Style: Common students in US don’t wear a uniform.American Style: The average student in US don’t wear a uniform.2Chinese Style: Who cooked this salad ?American Style: Who made this salad ?Chinese Style: His restaurant attracts lots of customers. American Style: His restaurant attracts lots of guests. Chinese Style: My friend Tony died in a traffic accident. American Style: My friend Tony was killed in a traffic accident.Chinese Style: Different from me, she is proficient in English.American Style: Unlike me, she is proficient in English. Chinese Style: Little children are difficult to understand that. American Style: It is difficult for children to understand that. Chinese Style: Don’t step on the grass.American Style: Keep off the grass.Chinese Style: I get my salary twice a month.American Style: I get paid twice a month..Chinese Style: Would you like a drink ?American Style: Would you like something to drink ? Chinese Style: Let me examine your pulse.American Style: Let me feel your pulse.Chinese Style: I have no exercise talent.American Style: I am not athletic.Chinese Style: Don’t expect me too much.American Style: Don’t expect too much from (of ) me. Chinese Style: I know his face.American Style: I know him by sight.Chinese Style: I forget my hat in the house.American Style: I left my hat in the house.Chinese Style: Lend me some money, for instance 500 dollars, LinAmerican Style: Lend me some money, say 500 dollars, Lin Chinese Style: I have a free time.American Style: I am free.Chinese Style: The sun rises from the East.American Style: The sun rises in the East.Chinese Style: The thief got in from the window. American Style: The thief got in through the window. Chinese Style: Let’s begin from page 10.American Style: Let’s begin at ( on ) page 10.Chinese Style: Did you attend college ?American Style: Did you go to college ?Chinese Style: I wanted to go to Europe last summer, but it was too expensive so I gave up to go.American Style: I wanted to go to Europe last summer, but it was too expensive so I gave up the idea.Chinese Style: I’ll go there at three.American Style: I’ll be there at three.Chinese Style: I am going back my home.American Style: I am going home.Chinese Style: His temperature went down.American Style: His temperature came down.Chinese Style: I like green color.American Style: I like green.Chinese Style: Today’s newspapers has his articles on Taiwan.American Style: Today’s newspapers carries his articles on Taiwan.Chinese Style: Give me money, if you have.American Style: Give me money, if you have any. Chinese Style: You’ll have a cold if you sleep with your window open.American Style: You’ll catch a cold if you sleep with your window open.Chinese Style: Somebody’s knocking on the door. Go and see who he is.American Style: Somebody’s knocking on the door. Go and see who it is.Chinese Style: The head office is in Taipei.American Style: The main office is in Taipei.Chinese Style: He cannot read and write.American Style: He cannot read or write.Chinese Style: Where is here.American Style: Where are we.Chinese Style: How heavy are you ?American Style: How much do you weigh ?Chinese Style: He was talking in a high voice.American Style: He was talking loud.Chinese Style: Most Westerners have high noses. American Style: Most Westerners have long noses. Chinese Style: Are you home tomorrow.American Style: Are you at home tomorrow.Chinese Style: How does she look like ?American Style: What does she look like ?Chinese Style: This is the way how I did it.American Style: This is how I did it. or This is the way I did it.Chinese Style: How do you think about Taiwan.American Style: What do you think about Taiwan. Chinese Style: How can I do ?American Style: What can I do ?Chinese Style: “ How long have you been in Taiwan ?“ “ Six months ““ How about Chinese food ?“American Style: “ How long have you been in Taiwan ? “ “ Six months ““ Do you like Chinese food ?“Chinese Style: I visited her ill mother in the hospital. American Style: I visited her sick mother in the hospital. Chinese Style: There is a limit in my patience.American Style: There is a limit to my patience.Chinese Style: Please wait inside the white line.American Style: Please wait behind the white line. Chinese Style: Is your house insured for fire ?American Style: Is your house insured against fire ? Chinese Style: I introduce Mr. Smith to you !American Style: May I introduce Mr. Smith to you ! Chinese Style: She was first prize.American Style: She took first prize.Chinese Style: Do you have any automatic camera ? Yes I have it .American Style: Do you have any automatic camera ? Yes, I have one.Chinese Style: That was a traffic accident on my way here. It is why I was late.American Style: That was a traffic accident on my way here. That is why I was late.Chinese Style: She is wearing blue jeans pants.American Style: She is wearing blue jeans.Chinese Style: Keep the right.American Style: Keep to the right.Chinese Style: Last night I didn’t keep my diary.American Style: Last night I didn’t write anything in my diary.Chinese Style: The train was late about an hour. American Style: The train was about an hour late. Chinese Style: Leave your hand from the end of the wire. American Style: Let go of the end of the wire.Chinese Style: I was ten minutes late for the English lesson. American Style: I was ten minutes late for the English class. Chinese Style: How many Chinese letters do you know ? American Style: How many Chinese characters do you know ?Chinese Style: He is fighting for his life.American Style: He is fighting for his bread.Chinese Style: Why do you say like that.American Style: Why do you say that.Chinese Style: I have no house to live.American Style: I have no house to live in.Chinese Style: What a dirty face ! Look at the mirror. American Style: What a dirty face ! Look in the mirror. Chinese Style: He lost conciousness for a long time. American Style: He was unconcious for a long time. Chinese Style: He made a world record.American Style: He set a world record.Chinese Style: Her marriage was happy.American Style: Her married life was happy.Chinese Style: Maybe I think so.American Style: I think so.Chinese S tyle: The club’s members are 55.American Style: There are 55 members in the club. Chinese Style: They didn’t understand my mind. American Style: They didn’t understand what I was thinking. Chinese Style: This is where you mistake.American Style: This is where you are mistaken.Chinese Style: I felt good mood.American Style: I am in a good mood.Chinese Style: Please allow me more two hours. American Style: Please allow me two more hours. Chinese Style: My watch doesn’t move at all. I must get i t checked up.American Style: My watch isn’t running, I must get it checked up.Chinese Style: We moved house to Johor last month. American Style: We moved to Johor last month.Chinese Style: He is our common friend.American Style: He is our mutual friend.Chinese Style: It was my first time to go abroad. American Style: It was the first time I had gone abroad. Chinese Style: While walking along the street, I met my friend.American Style: While walking along the street, I met a friend of mine.Chinese Style: My this book cost me nearly 300 dollars. American Style: This book of mine cost me nearly 300 dollars.Chinese Style: My room is narrow.American Style: My room is small.Chinese Style: I’ll visit my native place for the first time in ten years this summer.American Style: I’ll visit my birth place for the first time in ten years this summer.Chinese Style: Here is a pair of nice shoes.American Style: Here is a nice pair of shoes.Chinese Style: Is this seat empty.American Style: Is this seat taken.Chinese Style: Don’t be noisy.American Style: Be quiet.Chinese Style: It is not of only your business.American Style: It is none of your business.Chinese Style: I will do anything I can do for you. American Style: I will do anything I can for you.Chinese Style: This is the key of my room.American Style: This is the key to my room.Chinese Style: I am going to take a two-year course of English.American Style: I am going to take a two-year course in English.Chinese Style: He treated me very friendly.American Style: He treated me in a friendly way.Chinese Style: This is the largest department store of the world.American Style: This is the largest department store in the world.Chinese Style: It’s a novel of three volu mes.American Style: It’s a novel in three volumes.Chinese Style: He is a student of Harvard University. American Style: He is a student at Harvard University. Chinese Style: Do you know the meaning of the word of bumpy ?American Style: Do you know the meaning of the word bumpy ?Chinese Style: He had a child of his former wife. American Style: He had a child by his former wife. Chinese Style: She married old.American Style: She married late in life.Chinese Style: I saw it on the newspapers.American Style: I read ( saw ) it in the newspapers. Chinese Style: He is a liar, and you are one too. American Style: He is a liar, and you are too.Chinese Style: Open page 20 of your books.American Style: Open your books to page 20.Chinese Style: Our Chinese students are diligent. American Style: We Chinese students are diligent. Chinese Style: Don’t make the office out of order. American Style: Don’t leave the office in a mess.Chinese Style: I like to paint this door to black.American Styl e: I’d like to paint this door black.Chinese Style: I have a Chinese pen friend.American Style: I have a Chinese pen pal.Chinese Style: Give me a phone.American Style: Give me a phone call.Chinese Style: Is there any place for me in the car. American Style: Is there any room for me in the car. Chinese Style: Let’s play together.American Style: Why don’t you come over ?Chinese Style: I was very pleasant today.American Style: I had a very good time today.Chinese Style: He got 87 points in chemistry.American Style: He got an 87 in chemistry.Chinese Style: Chang is a popular name in Taiwan. American Style: Chang is a common name in Taiwan. Chinese Style: I’m a public servant.American Style: I work for the government.Chinese Style: She is pure.American Style: She is naive.Chinese Style: I have a question to you.American Style: I have a question to ask you.Chinese Style: This book deserves to read several times. American Style: This book deserves to be read several times.Chinese Style: I like red tea.American Style: I like black tea.Chinese Style: History repeats.American Style: History repeats itself.Chinese Style: I make a rule of going to bed early and get up early.American Style: I make a rule to keep early hours. Chinese Style: I went to the sea.American Style: I went to the beach.Chinese Style: The door was shut when I returned home. American Style: The door was closed when I returned home.Chinese Style: Shall we sit in that sofa ?American Style: Shall we sit on that sofa ?Chinese Style: This steak is soft.American Style: This steak is tender.Chinese Style: His new book will be sold well.American Style: His new book will sell well.Chinese Style: There’re a lot of sparrows stopping on the telephone lines.American Style: There’re a lot of sparrows sitting on the telephone lines.Chinese Style: He hit me strongly.American Style: He hit me hard.Chinese Style: My pay cannot support my living. American Style: My pay is not enough to live on.Chinese Style: He wants to establish a sweet home. American Style: He wants to establish a happy home. Chinese Style: Why don’t you take a driving license. American Style: Why don’t you get a driving license. Chinese Style: Last year I went to Seattle. I liked there very much.American Style: Last year I went to Seattle. I liked it very much.Chinese Style: My mother likes to drink thick tea. American Style: My mother likes her tea strong.Chinese Style: I think it will not rain tomorrow.America n Style: I don’t think it will rain tomorrow.Chinese Style: Is your camera this kind ?American Style: Is your camera like this ?Chinese Style: His house was struck by thunder last night. American Style: His house was struck by lightning last night.Chinese Style: My grandmother lived to eighty-five. American Style: My grandmother lived to be eighty-five. Chinese Style: I have a lot of work to be done.American Style: I have a lot of work to do.Chinese Style: To drink too much is bad for one’s h ealth. American Style: Drinking too much is bad for one’s health. Chinese Style: Today is hot.American Style: It’s hot today.Chinese Style: My father will be home today afternoon. American Style: My father will be home this afternoon. Chinese Style: What is the total sum ?American Style: How much does it come to ?Chinese Style: We changed our train at Woodland. American Style: We changed trains at Woodland. Chinese Style: I traveled to Europe.American Style: I made a trip to Europe.Chinese Style: I very like swimming.American Style: I like swimming very much.Chinese Style: Wait for your turn, please.American Style: Wait your turn, please.<r o l i a. n e t >Chinese Style: What time is your watch.American Style: What time is it by your watch.Chinese Style: I don’t know what did he say.American Style: I don’t know what he said.Chinese Style: What do you feel now ?American Style: How do you feel now ?Chinese Style: What season do you like best ?American Style: Which season do you like best ?Chinese Style: Welcome you to Taiwan.American Style: Welcome to Taiwan.Chinese Style: Where is the capital of Australia.American Style: What is the capital of Australia.Chinese Style: He has a wide shoulders.American Style: He has a broad shoulders.Chinese Style: We enjoyed the cool wind.American Style: We enjoyed the cool breeze.Chinese Style: I bought this book with 50 dollars. American Style: I bought this book for 50 dollars.Chinese Style: He played all yesterday without working. American Style: He played all yesterday instead of working. Chinese Style: Don’t work too hard. Yes, I won’tAmerican Style: Don’t work too hard. All right, I won’t Chinese Style: What will you do over the weekend ? I will play tennis with Tom on Sunday.American Style: What are you going to do over the weekend ? I am going to play tennis with Tom on Sunday.Chinese Style: My father bought me a black small leather wallet yesterday.American Style: My father bought me a small black leather wallet yesterday.Chinese Style: Most of the time, it is difficult for Sam in finishing his work on time.American Style: Most of the time, it is difficult for Sam to finish his work on time.Chinese Style: These thugs are quite capable to do really hasty things.American Style: These thugs are quite capable of doing really hasty things.Chinese Style: I very enjoyed it.American Style: I really enjoyed it.Chinese Style: If you determine to make the grade in the entrance examination, you must work extra hard. American Style: If you are determined to make the grade in the entrance examination, you must work extra hard. Chinese Style: Please handle this gold watch carefully. It worths more than five thousand dollars.American Style: Please handle this gold watch carefully. It is worth more than five thousand dollars.Chinese Style: I ran into Maria yesterday morning. She looked healthily.American Style: I ran into Maria yesterday morning. She looked healthy.Chinese Style: I am the only son in the family. I have not brothers.American Style: I am the only son in the family. I have no brothers.Chinese Style: My borther has been busy in preparing for his final examination.American Style: My brother has been busy preparing for his final examination.Chinese Style: As the citizens of Hong Kong, we arenecessary to help the police in their fight against crime. American Style: As the citizens of Hong Kong, it is necessary for us to help the police in their fight against crime.Chinese Style: The children were very dangerous as the knife-wielding madman was running amok in the kindergarten.American Style: The children were in great danger as the knife-wielding madman was running amok in the kindergarten.Chinese Style: Mr. Teow arrived at the office lately this morning.American Style: Mr. Teow arrived at the office late this morning.Chinese Style: Joseph did not go to the concert last week, I did not go too.American Style: Joseph did not go to the concert last week, I did not go either.Chinese Style: We have been waiting for half an hour. She has still not come.American Style: We have been waiting for half an hour. She has not come yet.Chinese Style: The hinges of the door had rusted. We had to push hardly to open it.American Style: The hinges of the door had rusted. We had to push hard to open it.Chinese Style: The sea was very rough that the ferry service had to be suspended.American Style: The sea was so rough that the ferry service had to be suspended.Chinese Style: It is unkind of him to ask a little child to do such many things in a day.American Style: It is unkind of him to ask a little child to do so many things in a day.Chinese Style: The three women quarrelled for more than an hour angrily outside the boutique.American Style: The three women quarrelled angrily for more than an hour outside the boutique.Chinese Style: You should describe what has happened detailly.American Style: You should describe what has happened in detail.Chinese Style: I received a letter from my sister two days before.American Style: I received a letter from my sister two days ago.Chinese Style: The driver, as well as four passengers, were injured in the head-on collision.American Style: The driver, as well as four passengers, was injured in the head-on collision.Chinese Style: More than one convict were sentenced to death.American Style: More than one convict was sentenced to death.Chinese Style: One of my students have sent me a birthday card.American Style: One of my students has sent me a birthday card.Chinese Style: Sophie is one of the most intelligent students that has ever existed in our school.American Style: Sophie is one of the most intelligent students that have ever existed in our school.Chinese Style: Reading detective stories are my favorite passtime.American Style: Reading detective stories is my favorite passtime.Chinese Style: “ Snow White and the seven Dwarfs “ are a very popular fairy tale.American Style: “ Snow White and the seven Dwarfs “ is a very popular fairy tale.Chinese Style: Five hundred miles are a long distance. American Style: Five hundred miles is a long distance. Chinese Style: Either you or he are the one who stole the watch.American Style: Either you or he is the one who stole the watch.Chinese Style: The quality of these products is more superior than that of the others.American Style: The quality of these products is superior to that of the others.Chinese Style: The living standard in Japan is higher than Korea.American Style: The living standard in Japan is higher than that in Korea.Chinese Style: My younger brother is taller than me. American Style: My younger brother is taller than I. Chinese Style: Which of the two girls is the most intelligent. American Style: Which of the two girls is more intelligent. Chinese Style: The patient felt much better in the morning than afternoon.American Style: The patient felt much better in the morning than in the afternoon.Chinese Style: What we need is the most perfect plan. American Style: What we need is a most perfect plan. Chinese Style: Which of these two shirts do you prefer more.American Style: Which of these two shirts do you prefer. Chinese Style: No sooner had I arrived home when it began to rain.American Style: No sooner had I arrived home than it began to rain.Chinese Style: Mike found it more easier to work out a mathematical problem than to write a poem. American Style: Mkie found it easier to work out a mathematical problem than to write a poem.Chinese Style: Charles loves Angel more than Simpson. American Style: Charles loves Angel more than Simpson does.Chinese Style: I saw where my mistakes lay and how to make up for them.American Style: I saw where my mistakes lay and how I could make up for them.Chinese Style: My archrival, Frankie, he scored very high marks in the last test..American Style: Frankie, my archrival, scored very high marks in the last test.Chinese Style: I felt very difficult to deal with this physics problem.American Style: I found it very difficult to deal with this physics problem.Chinese Style: The general meeting is scheduled to be held this afternoon at three.American Style: The general meeting is scheduled to be held at three this afternoon.Chinese Style: She ran into her boyfriend yesterday morning in Fair Avenue..American Style: She ran into her boyfriend in Fair Avenue yesterday morning.Chinese Style: Having not finished her housework, Mrs.Smith could not go window-shopping with her friends. American Style: Not having finished her housework, Mrs.Smith could not go window-shopping with her friends. Chinese Style: All the students are in interested in joining the club.American Style: No student is interested in joining the club. Chinese Style: I do not understand what is he talking about. American Style: I do not understand what he is talking about.Chinese Style: There were three thousands of spectators watching the final match.American Style: There were three thousand spectators watching the final match.Chinese Style: I’ve got many homeworks to do.American Style: I’ve got a lot of homework to do.Chinese Style: I went shopping at CauseWay Bay yesterday and bought a trousers.American Style: I went shopping at CauseWay Bay yesterday and bought a pair of trousers.Chinese Style: There are more than four million peoples in Singapore..American Style: There are more than four million people in Singapore.Chinese Style: I feel boring.American Style: I feel bored.Chinese Style: Would you give me some advices before I go to the interview.American Style: Would you give me some advice before I go to the interview.Chinese Style: We went fishing last Saturday and John got five fishes.American Style: We went fishing last Saturday and John got five fish.Chinese Style: Typhoon Andrew has caused widespread damages to the crops.American Style: Typhoon Andrew has caused widespread damage to the crops.Chinese Style: Congratulation ! You have passed the driving test at long last.American Style: Congratulations ! You have passed the driving test at long last.Chinese Style: I am afraid that this is the dirty mean to gain success.American Style: I am afraid that this is the dirty means to gain success.Chinese Style: Chinese are more conservative than English.American Style: The Chinese are more conservative than the English.Chinese Style: Cow is a useful animal.American Style: The cow is a useful animal.Chinese Style: I have got headache.American Style: I have got a headache.Chinese Style: Comparing with that in Singapore, the living standard in Hong Kong is very high.American Style: Compared with that in Singapore, the living standard in Hong Kong is very high.Chinese Style: Finishing his homework, Walters went to the football pitch with his friends.American Style: After finishing his homework, Walters went to the football pitch with his friends.Chinese Style: Sophia felt embarassing when I asked her how old she was.American Style: Sophia felt embarassed when I asked her how old she was.Chinese Style: It is more hygenic to drink boiling water. American Style: It is more hygenic to drink boiled water. Chinese Style: I have cut my hair at the barber’s once a month.American Style: I have my hair cut at he barber’s once a month.Chinese Style: I am sorry to have kept you waited. American Style: I am sorry to have kept you waiting. Chinese Style: There is a stranger stand at the door. American Style: There is a stranger standing at the door. Chinese S tyle: The robbers run into goldsmith’s shop, shouted, “ This is a robbery “.American Style: The robbers run into goldsmith’s shop, shouting, “ This is a robbery “.Chinese Style: Anybody is found picking the flowers will be prosecuted.American Style: Anybody who is found picking the flowers will be prosecuted.Chinese Style: Being no other business, the chairman declared the meeting closed.American Style: There being no other business, the chairman declared the meeting closed.Chinese Style: Laura has spent half a day to revise his lessons.American Style: Laura has spent half a day revising his lessons.Chinese Style: Finally, Ricky succeeded to enter the University.American Style: Finally, Ricky succeeded in entering the University.Chinese Style: I am used to watch television with the light on.American Style: I am used to watching television with the light on.Chinese Style: After dinner, my mother suggested to go for a walk.American Style: After dinner, my mother suggested going for a walk.Chinese Style: The government is considering the possibility to build a new airport on Lantau island. American Style: The government is considering the possibility of building a new airport on Lantau island. Chinese Style: Would you mind to pass me the salt, please ?American Style: Would you mind to passing me the salt, please ?Chinese Style: I am going to watch the cinema tonight. American Style: I am going to a movie tonight.Chinese Style: My son will marry next month.American Style: My son will get married next month. Chinese Style: My sister is going to marry with a doctor. American Style: My sister is going to marry a doctor. Chinese Style: You can sit my next seat.American Style: You can sit next to me.Chinese Style: I think you cheat me !American Style: I think you are lying to me !Chinese Style: My head is sick.American Style: I have a headache.Chinese Style: Which team you support hah.American Style: Which team do you root for.Chinese Style: This is my older brother.American Style: This is my elder brother.3Chinese Style: Thanks to see me.American Style: Thanks for dropping by. ( coming ). Chinese Style: Where are you come from ?American Style: Where do you come from ?Chinese Style: I want to reduce my weight.American Style: I want to lose weight.Chinese Style: Bobby is a black beautiful dog.American Style: Bobby is a beautiful black dog.Chinese Style: We had a lot of difficulty to find the place American Style: We had a lot of difficulty ( in ) finding the place.Chinese Style: Killing the robbers are something the detective would not do.American Style: Killing the robbers is something the detective would not do.Chinese Style: I was difficult to get a good job.American Style: It was difficult to get a good job.。
中国人最易犯的汉译英错误共29页

16、人民应该为法律而战斗,就像为 了城墙 而战斗 一样。 ——赫 拉克利 特 17、人类对于不公正的行为加以指责 ,并非 因为他 们愿意 做出这 种行为 ,而是 惟恐自 己会成 为这种 行为的 牺牲者 。—— 柏拉图 18、制定法律法令,就是为了不让强 者做什 么事都 横行霸 道。— —奥维 德 19、法律是社会的习惯和思想的结晶 。—— 托·伍·威尔逊 20、人们嘴上挂着的法律,其真实含 义是财 富。— —爱献 生
谢谢!
36、自己的鞋子,自己知道紧在哪里。——西班牙
37、我们唯一不会改正的缺点是软弱。——得很慢,但是我从不后退。——亚伯拉罕·林肯
39、勿问成功的秘诀为何,且尽全力做你应该做的事吧。——美华纳
40、学而不思则罔,思而不学则殆。——孔子
中国人最易犯得翻译错误

《中国人最容易犯的英汉翻译错误》(一)一个词变成一个句著名翻译家奈达说,“翻译就是翻译意思”。
言外之意,翻译一句话不能逐一翻译一串个别的单词,也不是翻译某种句子结构。
初学翻译的人之所以译得不好,就是因为摆脱不了原文各个单词和句子结构的影响,总觉得英语中每一个词译成汉语都是一个词。
殊不知,为了说明原文的意思,有时候要将一个词译成几个词,乃至一个短句。
这就是翻译中对某些词的…增益‟。
例如,英语中有些单词相当于汉语的一个词组:read“看书”,drive“开车”,giggle“咯咯地笑”,stumble“蹒跚而行”,等等。
这些相对而言还比较简单,一般英汉词典上都能查得到。
再如,英语句子中有大量的“副词+动词”的结构(副词也可能在动词之后)。
在不少情况下这种结构可以译成汉语“副词+动词”的偏正结构(汉语中副词修饰动词时只能放在动词之前),许多人往往用“……地”来译所有的英语副词,如:(1)They were patiently listening to him. 他们在耐心地听他讲。
(2)He quickly stood up. 他很快地站起来。
(3)I will gladly join you in the work. 我会乐意地和你一起工作。
这三句中都用了“地”字结构,第一句还可以,后两句就显得有点“翻译腔”,“地”字似乎可以省去,可分别改译为:“他很快站起来”和“我乐意和你一起工作”。
但是这三句中的副词和动词仍然译成了偏正结构,这是因为三句中的副词表示的是动作的方式。
但是,是不是英语中所有的这种结构都可以这么译呢?请大家考虑一下下面这一句应如何翻译:This is a NA TO matter and any comment on it should appropriately come from NATO.将appropriately come from NATO译成“合适地来自北约”显然不通。
中国人常犯的英语错误

中国人常犯的英语错误接触了点“国内英文”,发现有这个通病。
问了一个朋友才恍然大悟,因为在打中文时,标点符号后面是不用空格的。
但是在太平洋两岸尚未统一之前,劳驾打英文标点时,后面姑且先空一格吧。
不是不是不是Seek help, not “seek for help(s)”.楼下那位找人帮忙的别生气。
(Don’t take it personally.) 我每年都替我们公司做campus recruiting。
这个错误是在中国留学生中最普遍的。
看到我这张黄面孔,同胞也最喜欢往我的booth 这里递简历,但是半数的简历开头都写着:seeking for a position that offers…老美是不会往下读第二句的,直接丢进made in China 的碎纸机里了。
Seek 后面不要(不应)加for。
因为Seeking = looking for所以Seeking for = looking for for (?)Back to China, 或者back in China,不是back China (“情回中国”网站的英文名。
不过这比我以前看到的那个海军迷的网站叫闹的笑话要小些。
)大写往往是代表缩写。
加复数时,s不要大写。
DINKs (or DINK’s),别写成DINKS。
PhD,不是PHD。
(PHD=Permanent head damage).Again, 楼下那位找帮忙的别生气。
Nothing personal.另外,在网络刚普及的时候,美国有约定的nettiquette (net etiquette,或称网络礼仪),全大写的打字被网民视为大声喧哗(shouting),属无礼行为。
当然我理解中文打字的局限,这条不适用于华人。
所以“喜欢就捧捧场”别紧张,但是哪天你同洋人用全英文在网上沟通就不能再“BLAH, BLAH, BLAH…”了。
楼下的那个写Thoughts after V day也别对号入座。
中国人最易犯的汉译英错误

9.忽 9.忽…忽, 这些日子天气多变,忽冷忽热。 这些日子天气多变,忽冷忽热。 The weather is suddenly cold and then hot those days. The weather is changeable these days, now cold, now warm. 他的情绪不断变化,忽喜忽悲。 他的情绪不断变化,忽喜忽悲。 His moods kept changing, now happy, now sad.
12.晒黑 12.晒黑 我的皮肤晒得比你黑。 我的皮肤晒得比你黑。 My skin has become blacker than yours. I’ve got a more tanned skin than you. I’ve got more tanned than you.
中国人最容易犯的汉译英错误
1.容易 1.容易 冬天,人们容易感冒。 冬天,人们容易感冒。 In winter, people are easy to catch cold. In winter, people tend to catch. In winter, people are tending to catch cold. In winter, people arቤተ መጻሕፍቲ ባይዱ apt to catch cold. In winter, people are liable to catch cold.
(3)体现或反映(某种方向或利益) (3)体现或反映(某种方向或利益) 体现或反映 例:三个代表 Three Represents The Party should always represent the development needs of China’s advanced social productive forces, always represent the onward direction of China’s advanced culture, and always represents the fundamental interests of the largest number of the Chinese people.
中国人学英语常犯错误

中国人学英语常犯错误1Chinese Style: It was so late there was no taxi.American Style: It was so late that there was no taxi available.Chinese Style: Your coat is broken.American Style: Your coat is torn.Chinese Style: Let me help you to do your work. American Style: Let me help you with your work.Chinese Style: Susan didn’t make a fault anyway. American Style: Susan didn’t make a mistake anyway. Chinese Style: He becomes better.American Style: He got better.Chinese Style: I recommend you to take a long vacation. American Style: I recommend that you take a long vacation. Chinese Style: The last bus leaves at eleven o’clock. It’s about eleven now, Hurry up !American Style: The last bus leaves at eleven o’clock. It’s nearly eleven now, Hurry up !Chinese Style: It was still bright outside.American Style: It was still light outside.Chinese Style: The hall can seat two hundred people. American Style: The hall seats two hundred people. Chinese Style: Anywhere will do.American Style: Any place will do.Chinese Style: Wait here please, I’ll come back in a minute. American Style: Wait here please, I’ll be back in a minute. Chinese Style: I am uncomfortable.American Style: I don’t feel well.Chinese Style: Common students in US don’t wear a uniform.American Style: The average student in US don’t wear a uniform.2Chinese Style: Who cooked this salad ?American Style: Who made this salad ?Chinese Style: His restaurant attracts lots of customers. American Style: His restaurant attracts lots of guests. Chinese Style: My friend Tony died in a traffic accident. American Style: My friend Tony was killed in a traffic accident.Chinese Style: Different from me, she is proficient in English.American Style: Unlike me, she is proficient in English. Chinese Style: Little children are difficult to understand that. American Style: It is difficult for children to understand that. Chinese Style: Don’t step on the grass.American Style: Keep off the grass.Chinese Style: I get my salary twice a month.American Style: I get paid twice a month..Chinese Style: Would you like a drink ?American Style: Would you like something to drink ? Chinese Style: Let me examine your pulse.American Style: Let me feel your pulse.Chinese Style: I have no exercise talent.American Style: I am not athletic.Chinese Style: Don’t expect me too much.American Style: Don’t expect too much from (of ) me. Chinese Style: I know his face.American Style: I know him by sight.Chinese Style: I forget my hat in the house.American Style: I left my hat in the house.Chinese Style: Lend me some money, for instance 500 dollars, LinAmerican Style: Lend me some money, say 500 dollars, Lin Chinese Style: I have a free time.American Style: I am free.Chinese Style: The sun rises from the East.American Style: The sun rises in the East.Chinese Style: The thief got in from the window. American Style: The thief got in through the window. Chinese Style: Let’s begin from page 10.American Style: Let’s begin at ( on ) page 10.Chinese Style: Did you attend college ?American Style: Did you go to college ?Chinese Style: I wanted to go to Europe last summer, but it was too expensive so I gave up to go.American Style: I wanted to go to Europe last summer, but it was too expensive so I gave up the idea.Chinese Style: I’ll go there at three.American Style: I’ll be there at three.Chinese Style: I am going back my home.American Style: I am going home.Chinese Style: His temperature went down.American Style: His temperature came down.Chinese Style: I like green color.American Style: I like green.Chinese Style: Today’s newspapers has his articles on Taiwan.American Style: Today’s newspapers carries his articles on Taiwan.Chinese Style: Give me money, if you have.American Style: Give me money, if you have any. Chinese Style: You’ll have a cold if you sleep with your window open.American Style: You’ll catch a cold if you sleep with your window open.Chinese Style: Somebody’s knocking on the door. Go and see who he is.American Style: Somebody’s knocking on the door. Go and see who it is.Chinese Style: The head office is in Taipei.American Style: The main office is in Taipei.Chinese Style: He cannot read and write.American Style: He cannot read or write.Chinese Style: Where is here.American Style: Where are we.Chinese Style: How heavy are you ?American Style: How much do you weigh ?Chinese Style: He was talking in a high voice.American Style: He was talking loud.Chinese Style: Most Westerners have high noses. American Style: Most Westerners have long noses. Chinese Style: Are you home tomorrow.American Style: Are you at home tomorrow.Chinese Style: How does she look like ?American Style: What does she look like ?Chinese Style: This is the way how I did it.American Style: This is how I did it. or This is the way I did it.Chinese Style: How do you think about Taiwan.American Style: What do you think about Taiwan. Chinese Style: How can I do ?American Style: What can I do ?Chinese Style: “ How long have you been in Taiwan ?“ “ Six months ““ How about Chinese food ?“American Style: “ How long have you been in Taiwan ? “ “ Six months ““ Do you like Chinese food ?“Chinese Style: I visited her ill mother in the hospital. American Style: I visited her sick mother in the hospital. Chinese Style: There is a limit in my patience.American Style: There is a limit to my patience.Chinese Style: Please wait inside the white line.American Style: Please wait behind the white line. Chinese Style: Is your house insured for fire ?American Style: Is your house insured against fire ? Chinese Style: I introduce Mr. Smith to you !American Style: May I introduce Mr. Smith to you ! Chinese Style: She was first prize.American Style: She took first prize.Chinese Style: Do you have any automatic camera ? Yes I have it .American Style: Do you have any automatic camera ? Yes, I have one.Chinese Style: That was a traffic accident on my way here. It is why I was late.American Style: That was a traffic accident on my way here. That is why I was late.Chinese Style: She is wearing blue jeans pants.American Style: She is wearing blue jeans.Chinese Style: Keep the right.American Style: Keep to the right.Chinese Style: Last night I didn’t keep my diary.American Style: Last night I didn’t write anything in my diary.Chinese Style: The train was late about an hour. American Style: The train was about an hour late. Chinese Style: Leave your hand from the end of the wire. American Style: Let go of the end of the wire.Chinese Style: I was ten minutes late for the English lesson. American Style: I was ten minutes late for the English class. Chinese Style: How many Chinese letters do you know ? American Style: How many Chinese characters do you know ?Chinese Style: He is fighting for his life.American Style: He is fighting for his bread.Chinese Style: Why do you say like that.American Style: Why do you say that.Chinese Style: I have no house to live.American Style: I have no house to live in.Chinese Style: What a dirty face ! Look at the mirror. American Style: What a dirty face ! Look in the mirror. Chinese Style: He lost conciousness for a long time. American Style: He was unconcious for a long time. Chinese Style: He made a world record.American Style: He set a world record.Chinese Style: Her marriage was happy.American Style: Her married life was happy.Chinese Style: Maybe I think so.American Style: I think so.Chinese S tyle: The club’s members are 55.American Style: There are 55 members in the club. Chinese Style: They didn’t understand my mind. American Style: They didn’t understand what I was thinking. Chinese Style: This is where you mistake.American Style: This is where you are mistaken.Chinese Style: I felt good mood.American Style: I am in a good mood.Chinese Style: Please allow me more two hours. American Style: Please allow me two more hours. Chinese Style: My watch doesn’t move at all. I must get i t checked up.American Style: My watch isn’t running, I must get it checked up.Chinese Style: We moved house to Johor last month. American Style: We moved to Johor last month.Chinese Style: He is our common friend.American Style: He is our mutual friend.Chinese Style: It was my first time to go abroad. American Style: It was the first time I had gone abroad. Chinese Style: While walking along the street, I met my friend.American Style: While walking along the street, I met a friend of mine.Chinese Style: My this book cost me nearly 300 dollars. American Style: This book of mine cost me nearly 300 dollars.Chinese Style: My room is narrow.American Style: My room is small.Chinese Style: I’ll visit my native place for the first time in ten years this summer.American Style: I’ll visit my birth place for the first time in ten years this summer.Chinese Style: Here is a pair of nice shoes.American Style: Here is a nice pair of shoes.Chinese Style: Is this seat empty.American Style: Is this seat taken.Chinese Style: Don’t be noisy.American Style: Be quiet.Chinese Style: It is not of only your business.American Style: It is none of your business.Chinese Style: I will do anything I can do for you. American Style: I will do anything I can for you.Chinese Style: This is the key of my room.American Style: This is the key to my room.Chinese Style: I am going to take a two-year course of English.American Style: I am going to take a two-year course in English.Chinese Style: He treated me very friendly.American Style: He treated me in a friendly way.Chinese Style: This is the largest department store of the world.American Style: This is the largest department store in the world.Chinese Style: It’s a novel of three volu mes.American Style: It’s a novel in three volumes.Chinese Style: He is a student of Harvard University. American Style: He is a student at Harvard University. Chinese Style: Do you know the meaning of the word of bumpy ?American Style: Do you know the meaning of the word bumpy ?Chinese Style: He had a child of his former wife. American Style: He had a child by his former wife. Chinese Style: She married old.American Style: She married late in life.Chinese Style: I saw it on the newspapers.American Style: I read ( saw ) it in the newspapers. Chinese Style: He is a liar, and you are one too. American Style: He is a liar, and you are too.Chinese Style: Open page 20 of your books.American Style: Open your books to page 20.Chinese Style: Our Chinese students are diligent. American Style: We Chinese students are diligent. Chinese Style: Don’t make the office out of order. American Style: Don’t leave the office in a mess.Chinese Style: I like to paint this door to black.American Styl e: I’d like to paint this door black.Chinese Style: I have a Chinese pen friend.American Style: I have a Chinese pen pal.Chinese Style: Give me a phone.American Style: Give me a phone call.Chinese Style: Is there any place for me in the car. American Style: Is there any room for me in the car. Chinese Style: Let’s play together.American Style: Why don’t you come over ?Chinese Style: I was very pleasant today.American Style: I had a very good time today.Chinese Style: He got 87 points in chemistry.American Style: He got an 87 in chemistry.Chinese Style: Chang is a popular name in Taiwan. American Style: Chang is a common name in Taiwan. Chinese Style: I’m a public servant.American Style: I work for the government.Chinese Style: She is pure.American Style: She is naive.Chinese Style: I have a question to you.American Style: I have a question to ask you.Chinese Style: This book deserves to read several times. American Style: This book deserves to be read several times.Chinese Style: I like red tea.American Style: I like black tea.Chinese Style: History repeats.American Style: History repeats itself.Chinese Style: I make a rule of going to bed early and get up early.American Style: I make a rule to keep early hours. Chinese Style: I went to the sea.American Style: I went to the beach.Chinese Style: The door was shut when I returned home. American Style: The door was closed when I returned home.Chinese Style: Shall we sit in that sofa ?American Style: Shall we sit on that sofa ?Chinese Style: This steak is soft.American Style: This steak is tender.Chinese Style: His new book will be sold well.American Style: His new book will sell well.Chinese Style: There’re a lot of sparrows stopping on the telephone lines.American Style: There’re a lot of sparrows sitting on the telephone lines.Chinese Style: He hit me strongly.American Style: He hit me hard.Chinese Style: My pay cannot support my living. American Style: My pay is not enough to live on.Chinese Style: He wants to establish a sweet home. American Style: He wants to establish a happy home. Chinese Style: Why don’t you take a driving license. American Style: Why don’t you get a driving license. Chinese Style: Last year I went to Seattle. I liked there very much.American Style: Last year I went to Seattle. I liked it very much.Chinese Style: My mother likes to drink thick tea. American Style: My mother likes her tea strong.Chinese Style: I think it will not rain tomorrow.America n Style: I don’t think it will rain tomorrow.Chinese Style: Is your camera this kind ?American Style: Is your camera like this ?Chinese Style: His house was struck by thunder last night. American Style: His house was struck by lightning last night.Chinese Style: My grandmother lived to eighty-five. American Style: My grandmother lived to be eighty-five. Chinese Style: I have a lot of work to be done.American Style: I have a lot of work to do.Chinese Style: To drink too much is bad for one’s h ealth. American Style: Drinking too much is bad for one’s health. Chinese Style: Today is hot.American Style: It’s hot today.Chinese Style: My father will be home today afternoon. American Style: My father will be home this afternoon. Chinese Style: What is the total sum ?American Style: How much does it come to ?Chinese Style: We changed our train at Woodland. American Style: We changed trains at Woodland. Chinese Style: I traveled to Europe.American Style: I made a trip to Europe.Chinese Style: I very like swimming.American Style: I like swimming very much.Chinese Style: Wait for your turn, please.American Style: Wait your turn, please.<r o l i a. n e t >Chinese Style: What time is your watch.American Style: What time is it by your watch.Chinese Style: I don’t know what did he say.American Style: I don’t know what he said.Chinese Style: What do you feel now ?American Style: How do you feel now ?Chinese Style: What season do you like best ?American Style: Which season do you like best ?Chinese Style: Welcome you to Taiwan.American Style: Welcome to Taiwan.Chinese Style: Where is the capital of Australia.American Style: What is the capital of Australia.Chinese Style: He has a wide shoulders.American Style: He has a broad shoulders.Chinese Style: We enjoyed the cool wind.American Style: We enjoyed the cool breeze.Chinese Style: I bought this book with 50 dollars. American Style: I bought this book for 50 dollars.Chinese Style: He played all yesterday without working. American Style: He played all yesterday instead of working. Chinese Style: Don’t work too hard. Yes, I won’tAmerican Style: Don’t work too hard. All right, I won’t Chinese Style: What will you do over the weekend ? I will play tennis with Tom on Sunday.American Style: What are you going to do over the weekend ? I am going to play tennis with Tom on Sunday.Chinese Style: My father bought me a black small leather wallet yesterday.American Style: My father bought me a small black leather wallet yesterday.Chinese Style: Most of the time, it is difficult for Sam in finishing his work on time.American Style: Most of the time, it is difficult for Sam to finish his work on time.Chinese Style: These thugs are quite capable to do really hasty things.American Style: These thugs are quite capable of doing really hasty things.Chinese Style: I very enjoyed it.American Style: I really enjoyed it.Chinese Style: If you determine to make the grade in the entrance examination, you must work extra hard. American Style: If you are determined to make the grade in the entrance examination, you must work extra hard. Chinese Style: Please handle this gold watch carefully. It worths more than five thousand dollars.American Style: Please handle this gold watch carefully. It is worth more than five thousand dollars.Chinese Style: I ran into Maria yesterday morning. She looked healthily.American Style: I ran into Maria yesterday morning. She looked healthy.Chinese Style: I am the only son in the family. I have not brothers.American Style: I am the only son in the family. I have no brothers.Chinese Style: My borther has been busy in preparing for his final examination.American Style: My brother has been busy preparing for his final examination.Chinese Style: As the citizens of Hong Kong, we arenecessary to help the police in their fight against crime. American Style: As the citizens of Hong Kong, it is necessary for us to help the police in their fight against crime.Chinese Style: The children were very dangerous as the knife-wielding madman was running amok in the kindergarten.American Style: The children were in great danger as the knife-wielding madman was running amok in the kindergarten.Chinese Style: Mr. Teow arrived at the office lately this morning.American Style: Mr. Teow arrived at the office late this morning.Chinese Style: Joseph did not go to the concert last week, I did not go too.American Style: Joseph did not go to the concert last week, I did not go either.Chinese Style: We have been waiting for half an hour. She has still not come.American Style: We have been waiting for half an hour. She has not come yet.Chinese Style: The hinges of the door had rusted. We had to push hardly to open it.American Style: The hinges of the door had rusted. We had to push hard to open it.Chinese Style: The sea was very rough that the ferry service had to be suspended.American Style: The sea was so rough that the ferry service had to be suspended.Chinese Style: It is unkind of him to ask a little child to do such many things in a day.American Style: It is unkind of him to ask a little child to do so many things in a day.Chinese Style: The three women quarrelled for more than an hour angrily outside the boutique.American Style: The three women quarrelled angrily for more than an hour outside the boutique.Chinese Style: You should describe what has happened detailly.American Style: You should describe what has happened in detail.Chinese Style: I received a letter from my sister two days before.American Style: I received a letter from my sister two days ago.Chinese Style: The driver, as well as four passengers, were injured in the head-on collision.American Style: The driver, as well as four passengers, was injured in the head-on collision.Chinese Style: More than one convict were sentenced to death.American Style: More than one convict was sentenced to death.Chinese Style: One of my students have sent me a birthday card.American Style: One of my students has sent me a birthday card.Chinese Style: Sophie is one of the most intelligent students that has ever existed in our school.American Style: Sophie is one of the most intelligent students that have ever existed in our school.Chinese Style: Reading detective stories are my favorite passtime.American Style: Reading detective stories is my favorite passtime.Chinese Style: “ Snow White and the seven Dwarfs “ are a very popular fairy tale.American Style: “ Snow White and the seven Dwarfs “ is a very popular fairy tale.Chinese Style: Five hundred miles are a long distance. American Style: Five hundred miles is a long distance. Chinese Style: Either you or he are the one who stole the watch.American Style: Either you or he is the one who stole the watch.Chinese Style: The quality of these products is more superior than that of the others.American Style: The quality of these products is superior to that of the others.Chinese Style: The living standard in Japan is higher than Korea.American Style: The living standard in Japan is higher than that in Korea.Chinese Style: My younger brother is taller than me. American Style: My younger brother is taller than I. Chinese Style: Which of the two girls is the most intelligent. American Style: Which of the two girls is more intelligent. Chinese Style: The patient felt much better in the morning than afternoon.American Style: The patient felt much better in the morning than in the afternoon.Chinese Style: What we need is the most perfect plan. American Style: What we need is a most perfect plan. Chinese Style: Which of these two shirts do you prefer more.American Style: Which of these two shirts do you prefer. Chinese Style: No sooner had I arrived home when it began to rain.American Style: No sooner had I arrived home than it began to rain.Chinese Style: Mike found it more easier to work out a mathematical problem than to write a poem. American Style: Mkie found it easier to work out a mathematical problem than to write a poem.Chinese Style: Charles loves Angel more than Simpson. American Style: Charles loves Angel more than Simpson does.Chinese Style: I saw where my mistakes lay and how to make up for them.American Style: I saw where my mistakes lay and how I could make up for them.Chinese Style: My archrival, Frankie, he scored very high marks in the last test..American Style: Frankie, my archrival, scored very high marks in the last test.Chinese Style: I felt very difficult to deal with this physics problem.American Style: I found it very difficult to deal with this physics problem.Chinese Style: The general meeting is scheduled to be held this afternoon at three.American Style: The general meeting is scheduled to be held at three this afternoon.Chinese Style: She ran into her boyfriend yesterday morning in Fair Avenue..American Style: She ran into her boyfriend in Fair Avenue yesterday morning.Chinese Style: Having not finished her housework, Mrs.Smith could not go window-shopping with her friends. American Style: Not having finished her housework, Mrs.Smith could not go window-shopping with her friends. Chinese Style: All the students are in interested in joining the club.American Style: No student is interested in joining the club. Chinese Style: I do not understand what is he talking about. American Style: I do not understand what he is talking about.Chinese Style: There were three thousands of spectators watching the final match.American Style: There were three thousand spectators watching the final match.Chinese Style: I’ve got many homeworks to do.American Style: I’ve got a lot of homework to do.Chinese Style: I went shopping at CauseWay Bay yesterday and bought a trousers.American Style: I went shopping at CauseWay Bay yesterday and bought a pair of trousers.Chinese Style: There are more than four million peoples in Singapore..American Style: There are more than four million people in Singapore.Chinese Style: I feel boring.American Style: I feel bored.Chinese Style: Would you give me some advices before I go to the interview.American Style: Would you give me some advice before I go to the interview.Chinese Style: We went fishing last Saturday and John got five fishes.American Style: We went fishing last Saturday and John got five fish.Chinese Style: Typhoon Andrew has caused widespread damages to the crops.American Style: Typhoon Andrew has caused widespread damage to the crops.Chinese Style: Congratulation ! You have passed the driving test at long last.American Style: Congratulations ! You have passed the driving test at long last.Chinese Style: I am afraid that this is the dirty mean to gain success.American Style: I am afraid that this is the dirty means to gain success.Chinese Style: Chinese are more conservative than English.American Style: The Chinese are more conservative than the English.Chinese Style: Cow is a useful animal.American Style: The cow is a useful animal.Chinese Style: I have got headache.American Style: I have got a headache.Chinese Style: Comparing with that in Singapore, the living standard in Hong Kong is very high.American Style: Compared with that in Singapore, the living standard in Hong Kong is very high.Chinese Style: Finishing his homework, Walters went to the football pitch with his friends.American Style: After finishing his homework, Walters went to the football pitch with his friends.Chinese Style: Sophia felt embarassing when I asked her how old she was.American Style: Sophia felt embarassed when I asked her how old she was.Chinese Style: It is more hygenic to drink boiling water. American Style: It is more hygenic to drink boiled water. Chinese Style: I have cut my hair at the barber’s once a month.American Style: I have my hair cut at he barber’s once a month.Chinese Style: I am sorry to have kept you waited. American Style: I am sorry to have kept you waiting. Chinese Style: There is a stranger stand at the door. American Style: There is a stranger standing at the door. Chinese S tyle: The robbers run into goldsmith’s shop, shouted, “ This is a robbery “.American Style: The robbers run into goldsmith’s shop, shouting, “ This is a robbery “.Chinese Style: Anybody is found picking the flowers will be prosecuted.American Style: Anybody who is found picking the flowers will be prosecuted.Chinese Style: Being no other business, the chairman declared the meeting closed.American Style: There being no other business, the chairman declared the meeting closed.Chinese Style: Laura has spent half a day to revise his lessons.American Style: Laura has spent half a day revising his lessons.Chinese Style: Finally, Ricky succeeded to enter the University.American Style: Finally, Ricky succeeded in entering the University.Chinese Style: I am used to watch television with the light on.American Style: I am used to watching television with the light on.Chinese Style: After dinner, my mother suggested to go for a walk.American Style: After dinner, my mother suggested going for a walk.Chinese Style: The government is considering the possibility to build a new airport on Lantau island. American Style: The government is considering the possibility of building a new airport on Lantau island. Chinese Style: Would you mind to pass me the salt, please ?American Style: Would you mind to passing me the salt, please ?Chinese Style: I am going to watch the cinema tonight. American Style: I am going to a movie tonight.Chinese Style: My son will marry next month.American Style: My son will get married next month. Chinese Style: My sister is going to marry with a doctor. American Style: My sister is going to marry a doctor. Chinese Style: You can sit my next seat.American Style: You can sit next to me.Chinese Style: I think you cheat me !American Style: I think you are lying to me !Chinese Style: My head is sick.American Style: I have a headache.Chinese Style: Which team you support hah.American Style: Which team do you root for.Chinese Style: This is my older brother.American Style: This is my elder brother.3Chinese Style: Thanks to see me.American Style: Thanks for dropping by. ( coming ). Chinese Style: Where are you come from ?American Style: Where do you come from ?Chinese Style: I want to reduce my weight.American Style: I want to lose weight.Chinese Style: Bobby is a black beautiful dog.American Style: Bobby is a beautiful black dog.Chinese Style: We had a lot of difficulty to find the place American Style: We had a lot of difficulty ( in ) finding the place.Chinese Style: Killing the robbers are something the detective would not do.American Style: Killing the robbers is something the detective would not do.Chinese Style: I was difficult to get a good job.American Style: It was difficult to get a good job.。
中国人最易犯的英汉翻译错误 学习笔记

Live and learn又学习到新东西了Learn and live只有学会如何生活才能活得有意义Live and let live自己好好活,也让别人好好活Kings and bears often worry their keepers伴君如伴虎Daughters and dead fish are no keeping wares 女大不中留House of adultsWelcome to Beijing北京欢迎您You are always welcome欢迎下次光临Plain clothes便衣警察Homely meal家常便饭It is really more than I can tell you实在不方便告诉你Well, yes and no视情况而定More or less so或多或少是这样的if my memory serves me right我记得是这样的If need be如果必要的话Head-on clash正面冲突Distort facts歪曲事实Vacuum flash保暖杯Honey trapStop watch秒表Pigeon-toe内八字Contact lens隐形眼镜Go back on one’s words食言Eat one’s words收回并更正说错的话Straight talker直来直去Blame-shifter老是怪别人的Clock-watcher老看着钟A late starter大器晚成Master complicate老爱无事生非The ceaseless emergence and ceaseless resolution of contradiction constitute the dialectical law of the development of thing矛盾不断出现,又不断解决,这就是事物发展的辩证规律More than enough to fill my time实在忙不过来A stab of guilt因良心谴责而感到刀扎一样痛苦What is the population询问多少人口I have no opinion of him他给我印象太坏Stand on one’s hands站在手上Fall on one’s knees跪下Sleep late睡懒觉Between two lights晚上Place Tender Exact Fare不设找零If you want to impute a crime to someone, you do not have to discuss yourself at the want of an excuse愈加其罪,何患无辞Let us get real别废话了,说点正经的吧Can you dig it?你搞明白了吗?I can not help it我也无能无力Cool it悠着点闭嘴Hit it well with…相处得好…You will live to rue it总有一天你要后悔的I give it to him ht and strong我让他吃不完兜着走Bach it all his life一辈子光棍Golf course高尔夫球场Shooting range靶场Water cube水立方Dressage盛装舞步Trampoline蹦床Sandstorm control project治沙工程Initial success初步成就Inhalable particles可吸入颗粒物Inhale/exhale吸,呼Non-driving day无车日Cars with odd/even number plates are allowed to go on the road only on odd/even dates单双号车牌出行计划Embrace the world走向世界Show compassion奉献爱心Foul play小动作Give them precedence t show politeness主动礼让Make catcalls喝倒彩Careless about one’s appearanceJumping the queue插队graffiti in tourist spots乱倒乱涂Snap your finger打响指Barebacked光膀子的Shelf life存放时间Barrier-free passage无障碍通道Snooker壁球Aquiline nose鹰钩鼻Pug nose狮子鼻Turn-up nose朝天鼻Snub nose塌鼻子Vegetable nose蒜鼻子Brandy nose酒糟鼻A respectful distance敬而远之Comparison, more than reality, makes men happy or wretched 使人感到幸福或不幸的与其说是现实,不如说是比较Preliminary预赛Intermediary复赛Selective选拔赛Dual meet对抗赛Elimination match淘汰赛DJ: disk jockey调音师GED: General Equivalent diploma高中毕业文凭NOW: National organization of Women 全国妇女组织Have a short fuse脾气暴躁BBQ野外烤肉。
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《中国人易犯的英汉翻译错误》时间和潮流不等人记得我在大学念书时教室后面的墙上有一条英语标语:Time and tide wait for no man. 我们当时都译成“时间和潮流不等人”。
现在知道这样译是错误的:且不说tide不是“潮流”而是每天都会涨落的“潮(水)”,更重要的是没有正确理解其中的and一词,因而未能将这条标语的真正含义译出来。
这里的and其实是英语中一种特殊的用法,其前后的词语构成了一种比喻,即说前者和后者属于同样情况。
我们知道,涨潮落潮是月亮的引力造成的,每天涨落的时间总是比前一天晚40多分钟,不以人的意志为转移。
这句英语标语的确切意思是“时间(尽管看上去好像是无穷的,其实)和潮水一样,是不会等待任何人的。
”这种用法并不是孤立的例子,请看这一句:Kings band bears often worry their keepers. 这一句的意思是说:“国王和狗熊一样,是伺候他们的人日子不好过”,可以借译为中文的谚语“伴君如伴虎”。
下面各句都是由and组成的含有比喻的句子(有的颇有哲理,有的未必正确,还有的可以博诸位一笑。
所付中文译文仅供参考)。
1.Truth and roses have thorns about them.真理和玫瑰一样,往往都带刺儿。
2.Guests and fish stink within three days.鱼放三天会发臭,客待三天讨人嫌。
3.Truth and oil are ever above.真理和水里的油一样,总是(飘在上面)显而易见的。
4.A strong man and a waterfall cut their own path.一个坚强的人就像瀑布,能自己开出路来。
5. A false friend and a shadow attend only when the sun shines.假朋友犹如阴影,只有出太阳时才出现。
6.Noble deeds and hot baths are the best cure for depression.心情不好时,做点儿善事会像洗个热水澡一样,使人振作起来。
7.Words and feather are tossed by the wind.说出去的话和羽毛一样,会随风四处飘荡(传开来)。
8. A word said and a stone let go can’t be recalled. / A word spoken and a arrow left fly can’t be recalled.说出去的话和扔出去的石头/射出去的箭一样,是收不回来的。
类似中文的“一言既出,驷马难追”。
9.Secrets and edged tools must be kept from children.秘密不能告诉孩子,就像应该让他们远离有刃的工具一样。
10.Of painting and fighting, look aloof.看油画和看打架一样,要保持一定距离。
11. Love and cough cannot be hid谈恋爱(或者爱上一个人)和咳嗽一样是瞒不了人的。
12.Of soup and love, the first is the best.(犹如)初恋最甜蜜,第一口汤最鲜美。
13.Daughters and dead fish are no keeping wares.女儿和死鱼一样,不能留在家里。
类似中文的“女大不中留”。
14.Take heed of enemies reconciled and meat twice boded.对待讲和的敌人就想对待重新回锅的肉一样,要特别小心。
“吃,射击,并且离开”说到and,想起一件事。
2005年年初英国非小说类畅销书排行榜中有一本书,题目叫Eats, Shoots and Leaves。
某媒体在介绍该畅销书目时将其译为《吃,射击,并且离开》,成了一个笑话。
即使从表面文字看,把and译为“并且”也有点儿别扭。
这里的eats,shoots,leaves是三个并列的动词,可以表示有先后次序的一系列动作,译成“吃了(东西),开了一枪,然后离开”可能会更合乎中文的习惯。
其实,这是一个书名,不了解其内容,很难译好。
看来翻译此书单的同志没有见过这本书,当然无法了解其内容。
事实上这是一本很特殊的书,意在呼吁人们规范标点符号的用法。
书中列举了大量的例子,说明英国社会上许多人不注意标点符号,乱用、误用的情况层出不穷,Eats,Shoots,and Leaves就是作者收集来的例子之一。
此例来自某博物馆介绍大熊猫的一份宣传材料,该材料说:The panda is an animal that lives in China. It eats, shoots, and leaves.(后面还有别的内容,这里不引了)后面的一句错误的多用了两个逗号。
正确的句子应是:It eats shoots and leaves. 这里的Shoots and leaves不是表示第三人称单数动词现在时的形式,而是复数名词,是eats的宾语。
这里shoots的意思是植物的嫩苗幼枝,包括“竹笋”(bamboo shoots)。
还有一本书,书名里也有and:Eyes and No Eyes。
这是一本教人们如何观察大自然的书,大家想想怎么翻译好。
当然不能译成“眼睛和没有眼睛”。
And不仅可以连接两个意思并列的成份或进一步的意思,也可以引出转折表达相反的意思,如:He came here on bike, and I came all the way on foot.(他是骑自行车来的,可我却是一路步行来的。
)上面提到的书名里and引出的no eyes和前面的eyes在语义上也是转折关系,其意思是说“有些人尽管有眼睛,可是跟没有眼睛一样”,指他们观察力迟钝。
而这本书正是指出人们对习以为常的事物常常熟视无睹,不会想到认真观察,因而不会有所发现。
有人将此书名译为《观察自然界》,比较恰当的表现了原书的意思。
请大家再看看这一句是什么意思:A sailor and afraid of bad weather? 这里的and引出的也是转折的意思,译成中文应该是“(一个)水手难道还会害怕坏天气吗?”一个人如何变成两个人?英语里有一个谜语:When can a person become two persons? (一个人什么时候能变成两个人?)答案是:When one is so angry that he is beside himself 或When he doubles up with laughter. 如果将答案翻译成汉语,好像完全答非所问:“当他气得不得了的时候或是笑得直不起腰的时候。
”原文是一个文字游戏,这里beside himself是一个习语,意思是“(气得/高兴得)发狂”,而从字面上看也可以解释为“在自己旁边”。
一个人在另一个人旁边,这不就成了两个人了吗?而double up 也有两个意思,一是“(将东西)对折”,从而意引出“捏紧拳头”和“弯腰”的意思,英文原文回答中就是最后一个意思,但double up还有一个意思,即“翻一倍”也就是“(把)一个变成两个”。
英语里类似的双关(英语叫pun)文字游戏很多,因为无法翻译,所以,只有懂英语的人才能欣赏。
这说明学英语并不总是一件苦差事,其中自有乐趣。
下面再举几个有趣的例子,并说明其双关的所在。
也许它们能帮助你理解和记住几个英语单词;老师们也可以将给学生听,增强他们学习英语的兴趣。
1. -When a man feels girlish?-- When he makes his maiden speech.maiden speech是“处女讲演”,也就是“第一次发表的讲演”;而maiden又有“姑娘”的意思。
2. -When is a very angry man like a clock fifty minutes past twelve?- When he is just going to strike one.时钟strike one是“敲一点钟”,12点50分离敲一点钟只有10分钟;strike one也可解释为“打一个人”。
3. -Why shouldn’t you believe a man in bed?-Because he is always lying.这里的lying实际上是两个同形异义词lie的现在分词,一个是规则动词,意为“说谎”lie,lied,lying;另一个是不规则的不及物动词“躺”lie,lay,lain,lying。
注意,容易与之搞混的还有一个不规则的及物动词“放”lay,laid,laid,laying,美国许多单位招收职工时还考这三个词呢。
4. -When did the blind man suddenly see?-When he took up a hammer and saw.这个双关与前面几个不同,saw是动词see(看见)的过去时,同时saw也是名词,意为“锯子”,亦可用作动词“锯”。
英文回答中a hammer and saw是当成一组工具看的,意思是“拿起一把锤子和一把锯子”,但是也可以把saw看成是和took并列的谓语动词,全局解释为“他拿起一把锤子,这时眼睛突然看见了”,这样解释时and引导出时间状语,有just then或at that time的意思。
5. -How would a greedy man punctuate "I saw a one-hundred-dollar bill on the sidewalk?”-He would just make a dash after it.这一句双关在dash一词,其一个意思为“冲刺”,“百米赛跑”就叫100-meter dash。
原句中make a dash after it是说“(那个吝啬的人)朝那张百元大钞猛冲过去”。
dash另一意思指“破折号”,所以,又可以解释为“他是在其后划了个破折号”。
真假比较下面三个英语句子表明本文的三个部分:(1)John runs faster than Tom.(2)John is more a teacher than a poet.(3)This is more than I can tell you.第一句是真正的比较,比的是两人同一特点:跑的速度快。
实际上句子补全了应为:John runs faster than Tom runs. “约翰跑得比汤姆(跑得)快。
”其实,英语还有一种“负向”的比较,即Tom runs less fast than John.“汤姆(跑得)不如约翰跑得快。