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

ABSTRACT

Business 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 skills

Contents

1. 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．Introduction

Trading---the exchange of goods and services---is one of the most 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. Business English 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 or