英语商务信函翻译
商务英语信函的翻译
商务英语信函的翻译摘要商务英语信函在国际贸易中起着重要的作用。
本文首先通过介绍商务英语信函的特点，然后遵循商务英语的翻译准则，从商务英语信函的用词，中长句的处理以及语气特点三方面着手探讨商务英语信函的翻译技巧。
为了提高商务英语信函的翻译质量，翻译者必须了解商务英语信函的特点及商务英语信函的翻译准则及技巧。
通过举例和比较，本文详细地分析了商务英语信函的特点并总结出翻译商务英语信函的标准和方法及商务英语信函翻译中应注意的问题。
关键词：商务英语信函；翻译；特点；翻译技巧ABSTRACTBusiness English letter plays an important role in international trade.This thesis first introduces the features of business English letter with 7Cs. Then following the translation principles of business English letter, from the words, long sentences and manner of speaking aspects, it discusses the translation skills. In order to obtain good quality translation of business English letter, translators must understand the features of business English letter and the translation principles and skills. By analying the examples and making the contrastive study, this thesis gives a detailed analysis of the features of business English letter and figures out the basic principles and methods applicable to the translation of this specific genre and some problems a translator should pay attention to during the translation of business English letter.Keywords：business English letter; translation; feature; translation skillsContents1. Introduction (1)2. The features of business English letter (3)2.1 Courtesy (3)2.2 Correctness (3)2.3 Clearness (4)2.4 Completeness (4)2.5 Conciseness (5)2.6 Concreteness (5)2.7 Consideration (6)3. The translation of business English letter (7)3.1 The theory of translation (7)3.2 The principle of business English translation (7)3.3 The requirement of business English letter translation (8)4. The skills of business English letter translation (9)4.1The skills of the words translation (9)4.1.1 Preference of the concrete words to abstract words (9) 4.1.2 Using the precise words (10)4.1.3 Using the concise words (11)4.1.4 Using the correct and accurate words (12)4.2 The translation skills of long sentences (12)4.2.1 Division (13)4.2.2 Sequential-order translation of long sentences (13) 4.2.3 Reverse-order translation of long sentences (14)4.3 Manner of speaking and translation skills (15)4.3.1 Manner of speaking (15)4.3.2 Translation skills (16)5. Conclusion (17)Acknowledgements (18)References (18)1．IntroductionTrading---the exchange of goods and services---is one of themost basic activities of the human. It has existed in every society, every part of the world, and in fact, and every day since a primitive man swapped an animal skin for a stone chisel. In the history, China was among the first to trade with other countries. With the economic globalization and China's successful entry into WTO, business activities and information exchanges between different countries have been increasing rapidly. Today almost all the business companies recognize the significance of essential communicating skills, for all business activities rely on satisfactory exchange of information. Among the several communication tools, business English letter is an indispensable part of business communication.The business English letter refers to the letter used in the international business trade. Communication in business is important for the smooth development of the international trade. And business English letter is the most frequently used means in today's business communication by business companies to keep in touch with their customers. Therefore, it is important for us to learn to translate business English letters precisely so that to present ideas interestingly and clearly to enable readers to understand with the least possible effort.The business English letter plays an important role in today's international trade. Without it, much of the ordinary activities of business would be impossible. It is used to sell products or services, request material or information, answer customers' inquiries, maintain good public relations, and serve a variety of other business functions.Business English letter is one of the best ways to ensure that your message is accurately received, particularly if you are discussing technical or highly detailed information. BusinessEnglish letter also serves as a part of a company's permanent record. It can be used to verify bookkeeping and inventory entries. If you have a question about a customer's order, whether someone's query was answered, or about the details in an agreement, you can check your file copy of the letter.The business English letter functions as written contracts, fully recognized by the courts. It can act as formal or informal public relations material. It can help to build good will between you and your clients, creditors, suppliers, and other public groups. Your letter represents you and your firm to people you may never meet personally orcall on the phone. How do you express yourself and the appearance of your letter form an impression in the reader's mind of you and your business?Every letter that leaves our office fulfills several purposes. The business English letter plays an ever-increasing role in the international trade, and the same is true to the translation of business English letter. Many people have made tremendous contribution to the business English letter translation, such as professional translators, college teachers or postgraduates, etc, while business English letter translation is not such an easy thing that almost everyone who knows English can do it well. Many scholars at home and abroad have contributed a lot to the theories of translation for business English, however, this thesis will focus on the translation skills basing on the features of business English letter.2. The features of business English letterBusiness English letter writing is not different compared with any other form of creative writing. Good English is one of the most important bases of good business letter. The most effectivebusiness letter should be easy to read and understand. It must be friendly and courteous. We should put in mind the point that business English letter plays an important role in development of goodwill and friendly trade relationship. They are certain essential qualities of business letter, which can be summed up in the seven Cs, i.e. courtesy, correctness, clearness, completeness, conciseness, concreteness and consideration.[6]32.1 CourtesyCourtesy plays an important role in business letter writing, as in all business activities. It is a favourable introduction card, helping to strengthen the business relations and establish new ones. By expressing our enthusiasm, consideration and friendliness, courtesy not only means politeness, but also means thinking about the reader's interest. We should answer the letter immediately for punctuality will please our recipient who hates waiting for days before he or she obtains a reply to the letter. And we must also adopt the right tone.Let's compare the following sentences.(1) We are sorry that you misunderstood us.(2) We are sorry that we did not make ourselves clear.In sentence (1), the party of the author is to put the blame on the customer for something, but in sentence (2), the party of the author takes the initiative to bear the responsibility.2.2 CorrectnessCorrectness means to express properly with correct grammar, punctuation and spelling, and use appropriate tone which is a help to achieve the purpose. In business letter no excuse can make any errors acceptable, because it concerns the rights, benefits, responsibilities of both sides. Incorrectness causes inconvenience, disputes, and maydestroy the relationship between both sides.(1) All offers by fax are open for 5 days.This sentence does not clearly explain or account for specific 5 days, and it should be changed in to: All offers by fax are open for 5 days inclusive of the date of dispatch.(2)We assure you that this error will never occur.This sentence is the overstatement of the fact, and it should be changed into: “we will do all we can so that we may not repeat such an error.”2.3 ClearnessWe must express ourselves clearly to make sure that the letter conveys exactly what we wish to say and is not liable to misunderstanding. Avoid vague and ambiguous expressions. To achieve this, we must have a clear idea of what we wish to convey in the letter, such as the purpose, the attitude, and the matter concerned. Only a clear mind can express clearly. We also should study the reader's interest and the level of the reader's understanding, and try to imagine how he will feel about the letter.Contrast the following sentences:(1)It is obligatory that you confirm this outstanding indebtedness and, if no discrepancies exist, that you expedite remittance.(2)Please let us know if your records and ours do not agree. If you find that they agree, won't you send us your check right away?From the above sentences, we know that they express the same meaning, but the sentence (2) uses the plain, simple words, and short sentences rather than long, complicated ones, so we can knew its meaning better.2.4 CompletenessThe business letter is successful and functions well only when it contains all the necessary information. Incomplete letters can be costly, for they lead to errors, often cause delays in filling orders, and call for other letters of clarification to be written.[8]3 Answers to some fundamental questions help to see the audience and ensure that the letter is complete. There is a way to verify the completeness of what we write, that is five "Ws" (who, what, where, when and why) and one "H" (how).For example: the following is a letter of order.Gentlemen:Re:computersWith reference to your letter of May 8, we are pleased to accept your offer of 200 sets of ICM-4 Computers as per your Quotation Sheet No.9/04/2000.Please go ahead and apply for your Export License.As soon as we are informed of the number of the Export License, we will open the L/C by fax.Yours Truly After having written the business letter, you can check the completeness of the letter against the questions: who wants to order, what he wants, when he needs the goods, where the goods to be sent and how payment will be made. If there are some special requirements should be presented, you could explain why you would do so.2.5 ConcisenessTo be efficient, business writing should be direct and get to the point quickly and cogently. Conciseness is often the most important writing principle. A concise letter is not always a short one. Sometimes a letter dealing perhaps with a multiplicity of matters cannot avoid being long. If conciseness conflicts withcourtesy, then make a little sacrifice of conciseness. Generally speaking, we will gain in clearness and conciseness by writing short sentences rather than long ones.We would like to know whether you would allow us to extend the time of shipment for twenty days and if you would be so kind as to allow us to do so, kindly give us your reply by fax without delay.This sentence is too long and courteous in expression, which sounds unclear in meaning. To express the meaning better, the sentence should be write as follows: Please reply by fax immediately if you will allow us to delay the shipment until July 20.2.6 ConcretenessWhat the business letter comes to should be specific, definite rather than vague, abstract and general.[8]4Especially when the writer is requiring a response, solving problems, making an offer or acceptance, etc. Look at the following sentences:(1). We wish to confirm our fax dispatched yesterday.In the sentence (1), the word "yesterday" is a vague and general concept, whichallows possibility for misunderstanding. Like today and tomorrow, the word "yesterday" is not suitable here. It should be changed into: We confirm our telex of June 1st, 2008.(2). The Red Trading Company is one of our big buyers.The phrase "one of our big buyers" of the sentence (2) is too general and vague and it cannot express degrees of "big". If we want to give a clear concept, we should change it into: The Red Trading Company placed over US﹩10,000,000 worth of business with us each year.The aim of business letter is communication for the trade, sowe should use some objective things, data and specific words.2.7 ConsiderationConsideration means thoughtfulness. So before we go on to the detailed structure of the business letter we should remember this general principle, on which the American writers lay great emphasis, that is, the "you" attitude. In our letters we should always keep in mind the person we are writing to, see things from his point of view, visualize him in his surroundings, see his problems and difficulties and express our ideas in terms of his experience. For example:"We" attitude "You" attitudeWe shipped your order today.No exceptions to this rule can be allowed. Your order will arrive on Monday.(look at the things from the reader's point of view) This rule must apply equally in all situations. (Focus on the positive and say "no" positively.)3. The translation of business English letter3.1 The theory of translationWhat’s translation?A great number of scholars both at home and abroad have contributed a lot to the theory of translation. About it, they have put forward their different propositions, such as linguistic, communicative, and relevant and so on. But there is no generally accepted translation theory and it seems to be a subject on which hot debates never cease since its appearance, yet there are quite a few influential “theories” in the broad sense of “a set of principles which are helpful in understanding the nature of translating or in establishing criteria for evaluating a translated text.” In general, however, these principles are stated in terms of how to produce an acceptable translation.Among them, the most famous translation principles are Chinese translator Yan Fu’s triple pri nciple of translation, namely, faithfulness, expressiveness, and elegance which should be understood as additive factors, not competitive factors, and American translator Eugene A.Nida's functional equivalence and British translator Peter Newmark's semantic translation and communicative translation. According to American translator Eugene A.Nida, " translating consists in reproducing in the receptor language the closest natural equivalent of the source—language, first in terms of meaning and secondly in terms of style".[9]37Though Chinese and foreign translators have given different definitions of translation, they share the common nature of translation. "Generally speaking, translation implies rendering from one language into another of something written or spoken. It is essentially the faithful representation in one language of what is written or spoken in another. It is the replacement of the information of the source language by its counterpart of the target language. However, translation, in a narrow sense, is the practice of finding the equivalent both in form and essence between two cultures ".3.2 The principle of business English translationAs early as in 1792, Alexander Fraser Thatler, a famous Britain scholar put forward 3 principles for translation in his work, On The Principle For Translation the version should rewrite the whole idea of the original; the version's style, and the style of writing should be the same as the nature of the original; the version should be as easy andsmooth as the original.[7]58Business English covers widely and relates to many differentareas, so the principle of business English translation has its own particularity, that is, the multiplicity of principles. The multiplicity, here refers to the translation of different styles, the differences of the translation principles. When translates, it is necessary to use flexibility.Because of business English involves different language, style and profession, I think the principles of the business English translation should be considered as dynamic message equivalence, which can be called the four "Es": (1) Equivalence of semantic message of source language and target language. (2) Equivalence of stylistic message of source language and target language. (3) Equivalence of cultural message of source language and target language. (4) Equivalence of response of source language readers and target language readers.[11]1473.3 The requirement of business English letter translationBy the business English letter, the companies introduce their goods, services or even reputation to the outer world. After China's successful entering into WTO, and with the increasing chances to cooperate with foreign traders, business English letter will be used more frequently. English plays an ever increasing role in the international trade. Although English now is a world used language, English translation in international trade cannot be ignored, especially business English letter translation.As the business English letter involves economic interest of both sides, its translation is very important. Specifically, the translation of business English letter should meet the following three requirements: transmit the information of the original letter correctly; reappear the expression of the original letter appropriately; fit the characteristic of official letter.4. The skills of business English letter translation4.1 The skills of the words translationThe words, which is used in the language freely, is the combination of sound and meaning, the basic unit of the sentence.[1]2 So the meaning of the words can influence the reader to understand the sentence, or even the whole article directly. Although, we take the sentence as a basic translation unit in the process of translation. If we cannot translate the meaning of the words correctly, it will surely affect the meaning of the sentence, or even the whole article. The words are one of the most important parts in the process of translation. When we translate the business letter, we must pay enough attention to the words. In today's international trade, there are some useful skills of the words translation.4.1.1 Preference of the concrete words to abstract wordsThe purpose of business English letter is to convey a message. According to the features of business English letter, preference of the concrete words to abstract words falls within the scope of "concreteness", that is "Any kind of practical English writing should be specific, definite and persuasive instead of being vague, general and abstract". In business English translation，if the reader cannot grasp the meaning until the letter is read more than once, the letter is not concrete or clear.For example:Chinese: 我们会在七月付货款.English: (1) The payment of the goods will be effected on July 1st.(2) The goods will be paid on July 1st.In the sentence (1), "payment" is from "pay" plus "-ment". "Payment" which is a noun, cannot serve independently as a predicate. It has to be collocated with "effect" to express themeaning of "to pay". It is rather a roundabout way of expression. And sentence (2) is more easily understood because concrete words are used instead of abstract words.For business people, time is money. They want to know what has been said in the letter as quickly as possible. So in today's business field, we had better preference of the concrete words to abstract words and make our business letter easy to understand incommunication.4.1.2 Using the precise wordsAccording to the feature of 7 Cs, business English letter should be precise, especially in words choosing. When translating business English letter, the content should be clear, so that it can't be misunderstood. To do so, much attention should be paid to the precise and accessible expressions. Sometimes, when we first read some sentences, we do not know the exact meaning of the sentence. We have to read them for many times and take their context into consideration.For example:Chinese: 我们公司在河边上.English: (1) Our company is near the bank.(2) Our company is near the river.When we want to introduce the beautiful environment and the location of our company. We couldn't say like sentence (1). Because the word "bank" can refer to the side of the river or to a financial institution where one deposits money. The reader may have a question: Does the writer want to emphasize the beautiful geography of the company or to stress the convenient economic environment? So the precise way of translation is the sentence (2). This is an example of ambiguous. An ambiguous word is onethat has more than one meaning in the same context. We should avoid ambiguity.While translating, we should not only avoid ambiguity, but also cliché. Cliché is a French word used in English to denote a phrase that has become stereotyped and hackneyed.[13]14 It indicates poverty of language and unwillingness to think for oneself. Here are some clichés commonly used:at your (earliest) conveniencebe in receipt ofbe that as it maybound to admitby and largeconspicuous by its absencecut out the dead wooddue to the fact thatherewithup to the writingover and aboveIt is not always wrong to use a cliché in business letter translating. If the phrase is used properly, there can be no objection to it. Just think it over before using a cliché. Use precise words instead of the cli ché may let the business English letter seem more clearness.4.1.3 Using the concise wordsTo use more words than are necessary will cause unclearly expressions most of which are merely padding. Unnecessary words not only waste time, but also add nothing to meaning and contribute nothing to the reader's perception of what is written.Choice of concise words mainly embodies one of the principles of practical business writing conciseness, which isconsidered one of the essential features of business letters. By conciseness we mean that we should try to express clearly our meaning in as few words as possible, but without damaging completion and courtesy of letters. In the field of language use, when other things being equal, the smaller the cognitive efforts the reader should make to understand the writer's meaning, the better the expressions are.Let us have a look at the following examples:Chinese:对于我们的疏忽，我们深表歉意.English: (1) We regret to inform you that we are in error.(2) We are sorry for our mistake.Chinese:随函俯上我们的商品目录.English: (1) Enclosed please find our catalogue.(2) Enclosed is our catalogue.We can learn from the above sentences that the unnecessary jargons make the sentences (1) wordy, and sentences (2) are better though fewer words are used. From above, take hackneyed commercial jargons as an example, when unnecessary words do not contributed to the meaning, inclusive adjectives, adverbs, prepositions and pronouns, they should be avoided.Conciseness is an important feature of business English letter. Readers do not have to spend time reading the superfluous words, which do not contribute much to the meaning. Therefore, it is necessary to use concise words when translation.4.1.4 Using the correct and accurate wordsCorrect use of words means to use the standard language of accepted authority. Misuse of words, the use of obsolete words and slang are improper and unsafe in business English letter.[1]2This can be explained by the "correctness" of the feature business English letter. Mistakes in words may distract thereader's attention, result in lack of clearness, and cause an impression unfavorable to the success of the letter. It is essential to use the correct words in the business English letter.An example:(1) Chinese:我们可以提供各种电器。
商务信函翻译3
•敬启者： • 从纽约的ABC公司处得知，贵方是贵国主要 出口商之一。 • 目前，我方对进口贵方产品很感兴趣。若能 向我方函寄产品目录、样品簿或者在可能的情况 下惠寄样品，我方将不胜感激。 • 请告知详细的广州到岸价、折扣及付款方式 等。 • 希望此次合作将是我们双方长期而有利的贸 易关系的良好开端。 • 谨上
•Gentlemen: •We learn from ABC & Co., New York that you are a leading exporter in your country. •We are, at present , very much interested in importing your goods and would appreciate your sending us catalogues, sample books or even samples if possible. •Please give us detailed information on CIF Guangzhou prices, discounts, and terms of payment. •We hope this will be a good start for a long and profitable business relations. • Truly yours,
• Gentlemen: • We learn from ABC & Co., New York that you are a leading exporter in your country. • 敬启者： • 从纽约的ABC公司处得知，贵方是贵国主 要出口商之一。
• We are, at present , very much interested in importing your goods and would appreciate your sending us catalogues, sample books or even samples if possible. • 目前，我方对进口贵方产品很感兴趣。若 能向我方函寄产品目录、样品簿或者在可 能的情况下惠寄样品，我方将不胜感激。
英文商务信函
主动跟新买家建立联糸Dear Mr. Jones:We understand from your information posted on that you are in the market for textiles. We would like to take this opportunity to introduce our company and products, with the hope that we may work with Bright Ideas Imports in the future.We are a joint venture speci***zing in the manufacture and export of textiles. We have enclosed our catalog, which introduces our company in detail and covers the main products we supply at present. You may also visit our online company introduction at which includes our latest product line.Should any of these items be of interest to you, please let us know. We will be happy to give you a quotation upon receipt of your detailed requirements.We look forwardto receiving your enquires soon.Sincerely,John Roberts对新买家要求建立业务联糸的回复Dear Mr. Jones:We have received your letter of 9th April showing your interest in our complete product information.Our product lines mainly include high qu***ty textile products. To give you a general idea of the various kinds of textiles now available for export, we have enclosed a catalogue and a price list. You may alsovisit our online company introduction atwhich includes our latest product line.We look forwardto your specific enquiries and hope to have the opportunity to work together with you in the future.Sincerely,.向老客户介绍公司新的产品信息Dear Mr. Jones:We have refreshedour online catalogat,and now it covers the latestnew products, which are nowavailable from stock.We believe thatyou will find some attractiveadditions to our product line.Once you have had time tostudy the supplement, pleaselet us know if you would liketo take the matter further.We would be very happy to sendsamples to you for closeinspection.We will keep youinformed on our progress andlook forward to hearing fromyou.Sincerely,回复对某个产品的查询Dear Mr. Jones:Thank you foryour inquiry of 16 March. Weare pleased to hear that youare interested in our product"toaster".We've enclosedthe photo and detailedinformation of the productfor your reference:Product: toasterSpecification:xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxPackage:1pcs/boxPrice: 10usd/pcsPayment: L/CFor purchasequantities over 1,000pcs ofindividual items we wouldallow you a discount of 1%.Payment is to be made byirrevocable L.C at sight.We look forwardto receiving your first order.Sincerely,无法提供对方查询中所要求的产品时Dear Mr. Jones:Thank you foryour enquiry of 12 March cate9 cable.We appreciateyour efforts in marketing ourproducts and regret very muchthat we are unable to supplythe desired goods due toexcessive demand.We would, however,like to take this opportunityto offer the followingmaterial as a closesubstitute:Cate 5, US$__ permeter FOB Shanghai,including your commission 2%.Please visit ourcatalog atfor more information on thisitem. If you find the productacceptable, please email usas soon as possible.Sincerely,查询对方公司的产品Dear Sir or Madam:We know that youare exporters of textilefabrics. We would like you tosend us details of yourvarious ranges, includingcolors and prices, and alsosamples of the differentqu***ties of material used.We are volumedealers in textiles andbelieve there is a promisingmarket in our area formoderately priced goods ofthis kind mentioned.When quoting,please state your terms ofpayment and discount youwould allow on purchases ofquantities of not less than1000 meters of individualitems. Prices quoted shouldinclude insurance andfreight to San Francisco.Sincerely,几种报盘(a.)Dear Mr. Jones:We thank you foryour email enquiry for bothgroundnuts and WalnutmeatCNF Copenhagen datedFebruary, 21.In reply, weoffer firm, subject to yourreply reaching us on orbefore February 26 for 250metric tons of groundnuts,handpicked, shelled andungraded at RMB2000 net permetric ton CNF Copenhagen and any other European Main Ports. Shipment to be made within two months after receipt of your order payment by L/C payable by sight draft.Please note that we have quoted our most favorable price and are unable to entertain any counter offer.As you are aware that there has lately been a large demand for the above commodities. Such growing demand will likely result in increased prices. However you can secure these prices if you send us an immediate reply.Sincerely,(b.)Dear Mr. Jones:We thank you for your letter dated April 8 inquiring about our leather handbags. As requested, we take pleasure in offering you, subject to our final confirmation, 300 dozen deerskin handbags styleNo.MS190 at $124.00 per dozen CIF Hamburg. Shipment will be effected within 20 days after receipt of the relevant L/C issued by your first class bank in our favor upon signing Sales Contract.We are manufacturing various kinds of leather purses and waist belts for exportation, and enclosed a brochure of products for your reference. We hope some of them meet your taste and needs.If we can be of any further help, please feel free to let us know. Customers' inquiries are always meet with our careful attention.Sincerely,(c.)Re: SWC SugarDear Sirs,We are in receipt of your letter of July 17, 2002 asking us to offer10,000 metric tons of the subject sugar for shipment to Japan and appreciate verymuch your interest in ourproduct.To comply withyour request, we are offeringyou the following:1. Commodity:Qingdao Superior WhiteCrystal Sugar.2. Packing: To bepacked in new gunny bag of100kgs. each.3. Quantity: Tenthousand (10000) metric tons.4. Price: USdollars one hundred and five(US$105.00) per metric ton,Fob Qingdao.5. Payment: 100%by irrevocable and confirmedletter of credit to be openedin our favor through A1 bankin Qingdao and to be drawn atsight.6. Shipment: Threeor four weeks after receiptof letter of credit by thefirst available boat sailingto Yokohama direct.Please note thatwe do not have much readystock on hand. Therefore, itis important that, in orderto enable us to effect earlyshipment, your letter ofcredit should be opened intime if our price meets withyour approval.We are awaitingyour reply.Sincerely,给客户写的关于价格让步的信Dear Sirs:Thank you for your letter of 20January 2006. We aredisappointed to hear that our pricefor Flame cigarette lighters is toohigh for you to work on. Youmentioned that Japanese goodsare being offered to you at a priceapproximately 10% lower thanthat quoted by us.We accept what you say, but weare of the opinion that the qualityof the other makes does notmeasure up to that of ourproducts.Although we are keen to dobusiness with you, we regret thatwe cannot accept your counteroffer or even meet you half way.The best we can do is to reduceour previous quotation by 2%.We trust that this will meet withyour approval. We look forwardto hearing from you.Yours faithfully,Tony Smith Chief Seller通知预约应聘者前来面试的邮件Dear Mr. / Ms,Mr. Jack Baron, our personneldirector, has asked me toacknowledge your application forthe post of accountant and to askyou to come to see him on Fridayafternoon, 5th July, at half pasttwo.I will appreciate your letting meknow whether you will be able tocome.Yours faithfully尊敬的先生/小姐杰克巴伦先生，我们的人事主任，让我向你申请会计职位表示感谢，并请你于7月5日星期五的下午两点半来见他。
商务英语翻译4.1商务信函的翻译_OK
3. Please quote us your lowest price for walnuts. 请向我方报核桃最低价。
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4.3.3 报盘
Thank you for your enquiry of May 11. We confirm having received your sample. We have carefully examined the sample and can assure you that we are able to produce articles of identical type and quality. Based on your annual requirements, we offer as follows: Plastic Zipper 3#: 1,000 dozen USD 1.2/dz Metal Zipper 2#: 2,000 dozen USD 0.8/dz Net price, FOB Fuzhou The above items for which we have quoted are made of very best quality material and can be supplied in a range of designs and colors.
莎莉
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实训任务 案例二：报盘/复函 （答案）
Dear John, It was a pleasure to receive your letter of 9 August inquiring about
商务信函汉译英
• 如能速报你方产品最低价，我方将不胜 感激。 • We shall be obliged if you will quote us the rock-bottom prices for your products at your earliest convenience.
• 相信贵方会按期发货，因迟误势必给我 们造成很大不便和经济损失。 • We trust you will see to it that the order is shipped within the stipulated time, as any delay would cause us no little inconvenience and financial loss.
We look forward to your early reply.
Yours faithfully, Tony Smith Chief Buyer
• 请求建立商业关系的回复 • ----先生： 非常高兴收到贵公司本月二十日有关建立商务关系的 来函。 谨遵要求另函奉上最新的出口商品目录及报价单。 款项须请以不可撤销保兑信用证支付。如欲订货，请 寄电子邮件或传真为盼。 出口部主任 托尼.斯密思谨上 2000年5月22日
• 鉴于你方违约造成我方不应有的损失，我方很 遗憾地撤销此约，并保留对我方损失的索赔权。 • In view of the fact that your violation of the contract has caused us undeserved losses, we regret to say that we have canceled the contract, and we reserve the right to claim damages.
商务英语笔译之商务信函
1. 完整性（completeness） Establishing Business Relationship（建立商业关系） 建立商业关系通常是进出口贸易活动中的最初环节，属于交易前的准备阶段。一般 由去函目的、产品/公司介绍、期待答复三部分组成。这个例子充分体现了完整性的要 求。在翻译前简要了解结构性知识，有助于对翻译行为有整体性的认知和把握。
We look forward to hearing from you. 盼复！ 商务信函注重时间和效率，翻译应避免冗长的陈述，而以短小精悍的语句表达。 “盼复”既传达了原文的意思，又满足了简洁性要求。
We are excited to hear of your interest in our coconut oil. 得知贵公司对我们的椰子油的兴趣，实感欣喜。 该句为答复询价的典型表达，翻译时应注意商务信函中的惯常式表达。
Best regards, Rachel
Dear Richard,
Rejection Letter
Many thanks for your offer of March 15 for 2000 units of TV. We regret to be unable to promote the sales of these goods, as our customers state that they could not put up with slightest higher prices, because quick deliveries of Korean products have been much supplied. We will be able to secure orders if you provide us with lower prices.
12-商务信函的汉英翻译
例如：
John Wanamaker 68 Fifth Street Philadelphia 11 U.S.A
美国费城第十一邮区第五大街68号 约翰· 华纳麦克先生
商务信函的翻译技巧
2、遵循“忠实，通顺”的翻译标准 首先，应当准确、忠实地再现原文信函的思想内容及风格特 征。准确达意、简洁明了是英文商务信函的基本特征，因此， 合格的译文也理应具备这些特征； 其次，由于商业信函与商业贸易业务往来有关，必然牵涉到 很多的商务术语，因而在翻译时尽量按照译文习惯使用的术 语来进行表达。例如： “I have the honor to notify you that we have commenced a business as commission agents for British goods.” 原译为： “我很荣幸地告知你我们已经开始了一项业务，来作为英国 货物的代理”。这句的翻译绝对忠实于原文，但却不能够达 到通顺的要求，让人读起来感到特别生硬，须调整语序译为： “我们已经开始了经营代销英国货物的业务，特此通告。”
三、在内容表达上要言简意赅，能够传达足够 信息且能够做到机智的表达。
商务信函通常是直接简练，开门见山，忌过分 修饰。一般根据写信者所要表达的中心思想分 段。正文每段的文字不会过长，尤其是开头和 结尾，更常以简短为宜。 例 1： “By this letter we would ask you to consider our proposal.”就不如”Please consider our proposal.” 简洁。
商务英语翻译第6章 商务信函的翻译
第一节商务信函的分类BrainstormingTranslate the following into Chinese1. Letters of Introduction介绍信2. Appointments约见函3. Acknowledgments & Confirmations通知与确认4. Announcements告示；通告5. Consultation信息咨询Part V Practical TrainingTranslate the following sentences into Chinese1. The following items totaling $5000 are still open on your account.你的欠款总计为5000美元。
2. It is now several weeks since we sent you our first invoice and we have not yet received your payment.我们的第一份发票已经寄出有好几周了，但我们尚未收到你的任何款项。
3. I’m wondering about your plans for paying your account which, as you know, is now over 40 days past due.我想了解一下你的付款计划，要知道，你的付款已经逾期40多天了。
4. We must now ask you to settle this account within the next few days.请你务必在这几日内结清这笔账款。
5. We have pleasure in sending you an order for Cosmetics.我们愉快的给贵方寄去化妆品订单。
6. We want the goods to be of exactly the same quality as that of those you previously supplied us.我们希望此批订货质量与以前供应的完全一样。
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英语商务信函翻译
篇一：毕业论文《商务英语信函的翻译策略》word 顺德职业技术学院 毕业论文 题目商务英语信函的翻译策略 系别 年级专业 学生姓名指导教师专业负责人答辩日期年月日 目录 摘要2 第1章概述商务英语信函的含义3- 1.1商务英语信函的概念3 1.2写作原则3-4 第2章．商务英语信函的特点4-5 第3章．影响商务英语信函翻译的因素5-6
2 28 第4章．商务英语信函的翻译策7-9 4.1商务英语信函的翻译技巧7 4.2直译与意译7-8 4.3套译8 4.4常用的翻译策略系列9 第5章．结论9参考文献9致谢10 摘要 自从我国加入世贸组织以来以及在经济全球化的影响下，我国的对外贸易也走上了一个新台阶。在整个贸易过程中，商务英语信函就成为买卖双方沟通的工具，让互不认识的两个人互相信任。作为使用语言不同的买卖双方，如何翻译出对方所要表达的信息，是我们成功交易的第一步。信函也是我们了解对方的桥梁，我们可以从信函中知道对方在想什么，摸索对方的内心世界。 本文通过阐述商务英语信函的含义，构成，特点，让我们对商务英语信函有了充分的了解后，我们就探讨商务英语信函的翻译策略。很明显，在我们充分了解商务英语信函后，我们就能了解信函的用词，行文结构，从而了解商务英语信函的翻译策略。当然，要做一个出色的译者，可谓是要了解各种各样的知识，例如别国的历史文化，地理环境。这样，
3 28 在翻译过程中彩更加的得心应手。 关键词：商务信函翻译策略文化差异 Abstract
sincechinasaccessiontothewToandhasbeenundertheinfluenceofeconomicglobalization,chinasforeigntradehasalsoembarkedonanewlevel.Throughoutthecourseoftrade,businessenglishlettershavebecomeatoolforbuyersandsellerstocommunicate,sothatmencantrusteachother.Asbuyersandsellersusedifferentlanguages,itisthefirststepinsuccessfultradingtotranslatetheinformationweexpress.Letteristhebridgethatweunderstandeachother,wecanknoweachotherfromtheletterwhattheythought,toexploreeachothersinnerworld.
ThispaperdescribesthemeaningofbusinessLetters,composition,characteristics,sowehaveafullunderstandingofenglishletters.AndweexploretheTranslationbusinessLetters.obviously,afterwefullyunderstandtheenglishbusinessletter,wewillbeabletounderstandtheletterofthewords,structures,inordertounderstandenglishbusinesslettertranslationstrategies.ofcourse,todoanexcellent
4 28 translator,canbesaidtounderstandawiderangeofknowledge,suchasthehistoryandcultureofothercountriesandgeographicalenvironment.Inthisway,wewinthelotteryinthetranslationprocessevenmorehandy.
Keywords:businessletterstranslationstrategyculturaldifferences 商务英语信函的翻译策略 第一章概述商务英语信函的含义 商务英语信函是指在日常的经济活动中用来传递信息，处理商务事宜以及联络和沟通关系的信函，也是商贸公司业务活动中一个极其重要的工具。一封不同内容的商务信函可以收到商贸交易，事后交涉，继续保持贸易关系等不同的效果。 商务英语信函是一种常用的商务英语应用文，它是贸易双方相互了解、进行贸易往来的主要手段，在以书面形式沟通商务信息的同时，它也体现着一个公司或机构的商务形象。商务英语信函涉及商务活动的各个环节，内容广泛，通常包括建立贸易关系（establishingbusinessrelations）、询盘（inquiry）、发盘（offer）、还盘（counter-offer）、受盘（acceptance）、订货（placingorders）、保险（insurance）、装运（shipment）、索赔（claim）等方面。
5 28 想要正确翻译出英语信函中的主要内容，了解商务信函的构成是其中的第一步。写商务英语信函第一步就是要写信头（letterhead），也叫做信端，内容宝货写信人的详细信息，包括姓名，通讯地址，电话号码，传真号和电子邮箱。写信头的目的是方便收件人了解信函的来历，方便回复。第二部分，就是日期。任何信件都要写上姓名的，这样可以让收件人了解信函的时效性，让收件人及时作出回复。第三部分就是封内地址，就是收件人的详细信息。第四部分就是称呼。在写商务信函中，我们也必须要表现出以礼待人的一面。虽然称呼在信中占位不大，但它却是不可或缺的一部分。第五部分就是正文，它是整篇信函的点睛部分，内容简明扼要，把所表达的内容充分出来。第六部分就是结束礼词，这也是书信礼仪的体现，表达对对方的祝福。最后就是收件人的签名。 此外，写商务英语信函要有一定的规范的，应遵循一定的写作原则，采用一些写作技巧，从而使商务信函表意准确，语言流畅，更易于贸易双方的沟通与理解。因此，在商务英语信函写作仲，应遵循7c原则，即礼貌（courtesy）、体谅（consideration）、完整（completeness）、清楚（clarity）、简洁（conciseness）、具体（concreteness）和正确（correctness）。 1、礼貌原则。礼貌是商务场上的重要法则，礼貌周到
6 28 的信函可赢得对方的好感。所以，在信函中适合多用点礼貌的语句，就像“please”、“Itwillbehighlyappreciatedthat….”、“Itisourpleasureto….”。业务往来中难免有争端、摩擦，此时也需要用礼貌来作为润滑剂，化解双方对峙的僵局。信函中在索赔、抱怨、拒绝接受时，措辞也要力求客气，心平气和、语气委婉；在回复对方信函时，无论对方的态度如何，在坚持自己立场的同时，都要礼貌的回应对方。 2、体谅原则。很多人写商务信函的时候都是从自己的角度出发。与其他信函不 同，商务英语信函注重的是信息沟通的效果，不仅要关心内容的正确与完整，还必须重视对方的反映，只有站在对方的立场上思考和发现问题，解决问题，才能收到满意的沟通效果。在商务英语写作中，应注意强调对方利益，对方获取信息的最根本目的就是要了解他们将获得什么利益以及这些利益能否满足他们的需求。 3、完整原则。在信函写作中，信息完整很关键。一些在日常写作中常用的如“theabovementioned”，“theformer”，“thelatter”，“respectively”之类的表达方式尽量少用，尽可能提供完整的信息，让对方一目了然。 4、清楚原则。这是商务英语信函中最重要的原则。一封含糊不清、词不达意的书信会引起一些不必要的误会和产
7 28 生歧义，甚至会造成贸易损失。清楚表达应注意选择正确、简练的词以及正确的句子结构。英语作为一种世界贸易语言，被无数的商务人员在信函中使用着，但这些人并非全部都精通英语。所以，在选词上应注意选择那些简单的，为人熟悉并且符合常规的表达方式，避免好私用复杂、生僻和容易产生歧义的词语。 5、简洁原则。有力、生动的措词是增强国际商务信函有效性的一大法宝。在具体运用过程中，可适当选用为人熟知的外贸缩略语。例如，L/c就是letterofcredit，b/L就是billoflading，s/c就是salescontract。这些都是外贸行业中常用的缩略语，简洁易记，也不会产生歧义。 6、具体原则。在商务信函中，要尽可能使所传递的信息具体、准确而形象。 7、正确原则。正确不但指语法、句法、标点和拼写正确无误，还指使用标准语言和商务专业术语进行恰当的陈述。商务信函中如果存在拼写错误、人称不一致、时态误用、标点符号不当等问题，会使沟通效果大打折扣的。 第二章商务英语信函的特点 一、专业性强 商务英语信函在词汇使用上的最大特点是对专业性词汇的精确运用，其中包含大量的专业术语，缩略词等。 二、大量套语