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Translating the Definite Article in Patents into Chinese

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Author

  • Spencer Walle

Summary, in English

This paper analyzes the linguistic characteristics of Chinese patent language norms, particularly how the English definite article is translated into Simplified Chinese. The term “所述” is used with exceptional frequency in Chinese patent claims. Does this reflect the influence of English on Chinese? Through a corpus-based analysis, this study finds that the widespread use of “所述” is not only influenced by English but also reflects the emphasis of patent authors and translators on precision and controlled language, as well as the consensus they have reached through long-term practice. Patents have the dual nature of being both technical and legal texts, and translation strategies must balance these differing objectives. In its conclusion, this paper offers original insights into the theory and practice of patent translation.

Publishing year

2025

Language

English

Document type

Student publication for Bachelor's degree

Topic

  • Languages and Literatures

Keywords

  • Chinese
  • patent translation
  • definite article
  • corpus

Supervisor

  • Jinyan Zeng