Scope of the study 2
The study mainly focuses on the Architecture terms in the material “Neufert” The major aspects to be considered are their:
structural patterns of AT in English
Aims of the study 2
To work out the similarities and differences between English and their Vietnamese equivalents
This article explores effective strategies and methodologies for translating architectural terminology, with a particular focus on addressing non-equivalent terms from English to Vietnamese It aims to identify best practices that can enhance the accuracy and cultural relevance of architectural translations, ensuring that the unique aspects of architectural concepts are effectively communicated across languages.
Method of the study 2 5 Design of the study 2
This research aims to explore the similarities and differences between English architectural terms and their Vietnamese counterparts, while also identifying effective strategies, procedures, and methods for translating these terms as presented in Neufert.
To carry out the thesis the author went through the following steps:
Collecting and grouping English architecture terms in Neufert and their Vietnamese equivalents for description, analysis and induction
Draw out strategies, procedures and methods in translation of architecture terms
The English architectural terms analyzed in this study are sourced from "Neufert" and "English for Building and Constructing," with their Vietnamese equivalents selected from translations by architects and educators in the field.
The study consists of three main parts, references and appendixes as follows:
The rationale for the study, scope, aims, methods and design of the study are orderly presented in this part
There are three chapters in this part:
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND 4
Terminology 4
Terminology has been defined by various linguists to clarify its structure and meaning Mr Do Huu Chau (1981) describes terms as specialized words used within scientific, professional, or technological fields, emphasizing that scientific and technical terminology comprises lexical units that denote objects and activities in industrial technologies and the natural or social sciences Similarly, Mr Nguyen Thien Giap (1998) offers a distinct definition, viewing terminology as special linguistic units that include words and fixed phrases, providing precise definitions and objectives relevant to specific scientific areas.
Specialized fields of knowledge, such as mathematics, business, and medicine, utilize unique terminology that distinguishes these terms from everyday language According to Baker (1998: 261), terms possess a distinct reference, relating to specific conceptual entities, properties, activities, or relationships that define the knowledge domain of a particular subject.
Further important differences between terms and words are:
1 Terms have special reference within a particular discipline whereas words function in general reference over a variety of subject fields
2 Terms keep their lives and meanings only for as long as they serve the system of knowledge that gave rise to them
Lexical items encompass terms, words, and proper names, where names identify specific objects and individuals, words denote general concepts, and terms signify particular ideas The distinction between terms and words is often blurred; terms can evolve into common words through frequent usage in everyday life, while ordinary words may transform into specialized terms within specific fields.
Terms differ from ordinary words as they hold specific meanings within particular disciplines and must remain neutral, devoid of personal attitudes or figurative language According to Nguyen Thien Giap (1998) and Do Huu Chau (1981), effective terms should exhibit qualities such as accuracy, systematic structure, international relevance, widespread usage, and a connection to national identity.
Accurate and clear terminology is essential as it precisely reflects scientific concepts, preventing misunderstandings between different ideas Once a word is established as a term, it loses its emotional connotations and variations in meaning, such as synonyms and antonyms Terminology operates on the principle of a one-to-one relationship, where each concept is represented by a single term, ensuring that one term corresponds to only one concept.
Every scientific discipline possesses a specific system of concepts defined by a unique set of terms Each term holds a distinct position within this terminological framework, and its value is derived from its relationships with other terms Consequently, a term's significance diminishes when it is removed from its contextual system, highlighting that each term is inherently dependent on its interconnectedness within that framework.
Internationally recognized scientific terms facilitate communication among speakers of different languages, promoting the advancement of science Establishing a consensus on these terms is essential for effective collaboration Many scientific concepts are expressed similarly across various languages, as seen with words like "video," "radio," and "telephone," which maintain similar forms in French, German, English, and Vietnamese.
Terms should be relatable and accessible, ensuring they are easy to remember and understand This simplicity is crucial as it facilitates the dissemination of knowledge and benefits individuals in various aspects of life.
Terms, while specific to specialized fields, are integral to the national language, embodying its unique characteristics and nuances Consequently, these terms should be constructed using the foundational elements of the national language, including its lexicon, structure, and grammar.
Terms are essential for naming concepts, and when a concept emerges or is translated into a new culture, it often necessitates the creation of a new term to accurately represent it.
I.1.3.1 Primary and secondary term creation
Primary and secondary term formation is governed by different influences:
Primary term formation involves naming newly created concepts, while secondary term formation arises from either the monolingual revision of existing terminology to produce standard documents or the transfer of technology to another linguistic community, necessitating the creation of new terms in the target language.
A key distinction between primary and secondary term formation is that primary term formation lacks a linguistic precedent, relying instead on established rules for creating suitable terms In contrast, secondary term formation is influenced by existing terms in another language, which provides a motivational basis for the new terms.
Secondary term formation is typically guided by established rules, while primary term formation relies on existing patterns and vocabulary within the relevant subject area and natural language.
A key characteristic of vocabulary in technology and industrial applications is its controlled and manageable nature This specialized terminology is utilized by a diverse group of individuals, and it often overlaps with language used in everyday conversations.
Technological terminology is characterized by its volatility, in contrast to the more stable terminology found in science This instability arises from ongoing changes in materials, production methods, and design Additionally, the creation of secondary terms, as knowledge is shared across different linguistic communities, further contributes to the dynamic nature of technological language.
Translation theory 7
Translation has been defined variously by different linguists through times Followings are some typical definitions:
Translation is the process of expressing content from a source language (SL) into a target language (TL) while maintaining semantic and stylistic equivalences According to Marlone (1988), it involves conveying the original message accurately Bell (1991) emphasizes that translation entails a change of form, replacing the source language structure with that of the receptor language Carford (1965) adds that it involves substituting a text in one language with an equivalent in another Hatim & Mason (1990) highlight that effective translation produces the closest natural equivalent to the original message, prioritizing both meaning and style Newmark (1995) succinctly defines translation as rendering a written text into another language, reflecting the author's intended message.
The five definitions, while differing slightly in wording, all highlight the significance of identifying the closest equivalent in meaning through the careful selection of appropriate lexical and grammatical structures in the target language, as well as considering the communication context and cultural nuances.
Equivalence is a fundamental concept in translation theory, leading many linguists to explore its definition Pym (1992) highlights the circular nature of equivalence, where the term is used to define translation, which then circles back to define equivalence Various detailed approaches to translation equivalence have emerged from this exploration.
Nida (1964) distinguishes formal equivalence and dynamic translation as basic orientations rather than as a binary choice:
- Formal equivalence is achieved when SL and TL words have he closest possible match of from and content
- Dynamic equivalence is achieved when the SL and TL words have the same effect on their effective readers
Newmark (1995: 48) emphasizes that the primary goal of translation is to achieve an "equivalence effect," meaning the translation should evoke a similar response from its audience as the original text did He argues that this equivalence effect is the desired outcome of translation, except in two specific scenarios where the source language (SL) text aims to influence the audience directly.
TL translation is to inform or vice versa; (b) If there is a pronounced cultural gap between the SL and the TL text
Koller (1979) considers five types of equivalence:
Denotative equivalence: the SL and the TL words refer to the same thing in the real world
Connotative equivalence: this type of equivalence provides additional values besides denotative value and is achieved by the translator’s choice or synonymous words or expressions
Text-normative equivalence: The SL and the TL words are used in the same or similar context in their respective languages
Pragmatic equivalence: With readership orientation, the SL and the TL words have same effect on the respective readers
Formal equivalence: This type of equivalence produces an analogy of form in the translation by their exploiting formal possibilities of TL, or creating new forms in TL
Kade (1968) and other writers on lexical equivalence, in particular in the area of terminology, categorize equivalence relationships as follows:
One-to-one: There is single expression in the TL for a single expression in the
One-to-many: There is more than one expression in the TL for a single SL one
Many-to-one: There is more than one expression in the SL, but there is only a single expression in the TL that is equivalent to them
Many-to-many: There is more than one expression in the SL and they are equivalent to more than one in TL
In translation, the whole-to-part and part-to-whole relationships highlight that a target language (TL) expression may represent only a portion of the concept conveyed by a single expression in the source language (SL) Conversely, the equivalent in the TL might encompass a broader meaning than the original concept in the SL Understanding these relationships is crucial for accurate translation and effective communication.
The one-to-zero or nil equivalence problem presents a significant challenge for translators across various fields, as it occurs when a single expression in the source language (SL) lacks a corresponding term in the target language (TL) This issue can complicate the translation process, even for seasoned professionals.
In this part, we will present only translation methods, procedures and strategies that match the content of the study, or can serve the aim of the research
In order to have a deep understanding of what Literal translation is, it is useful to have a look at what is word-for-word translation According to Newmark (1995: 69),
Word-for-word translation conveys the grammar and word order of the source language (SL), along with the core meanings of its vocabulary This method is most effective for short, simple, and neutral sentences Literal translation can vary in scope, ranging from individual words (e.g., "hall" to "salle") to phrases (e.g., "a beautiful garden" to "un beau jardin"), collocations (e.g., "make a speech" to "faire un discours"), clauses (e.g., "when that was done" to "quand cela fut fait"), and entire sentences (e.g., "The man is in the street" to "L'homme était dans la rue").
Communicative translation aims to convey the precise contextual meaning of the original text in a manner that is both acceptable and understandable to the target audience According to Newmark (1995: 42), translators are permitted to enhance the logic, refine awkward syntactic structures, eliminate ambiguities, and clarify jargon They can also correct factual errors and document these changes in footnotes, ensuring that the translation remains coherent and accessible.
Transference, as defined by Newmark (1981), is the process of incorporating a source language (SL) word into a target language (TL) text during translation The translator must carefully decide whether to transfer unfamiliar words, typically opting to do so for cultural objects or concepts to honor the source culture Commonly transferred terms include names of individuals, geographical locations, newly independent countries, periodicals, untranslated literary works, plays, films, private companies, public institutions, and street names.
A "shift," as defined by Catford, or "transposition," according to Vinay and Darbelnet, refers to a translation procedure that involves altering the grammatical structure from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) Newmark (1995: 85) identifies four sub-types of shifts: (1) changing singular to plural or adjusting the position of adjectives; (2) modifying structures when a SL grammatical form lacks a counterpart in the TL; (3) employing a literal translation that, while grammatically correct, may not sound natural in the TL; and (4) substituting a virtual lexical gap with a grammatical structure.
Paraphrasing involves elaborating on or clarifying the meaning of a portion of text As noted by Baker (1992:40), one of the key benefits of paraphrasing is its ability to accurately convey propositional meaning with a high degree of precision.
Sofer (1991, cited in Bac, N.T 2003) distinguishes between literary and technical translation, stating that technical translation involves specialized terminology relevant to specific fields He notes that literary translation encompasses areas such as fiction, poetry, and drama, typically performed by translators with a strong literary background In contrast, technical translation is increasingly practiced by a larger number of professionals, highlighting its growth and the expanding opportunities within this field.
Newmark (1995) differentiates technical translation from institutional translation, defining technical translation as a subset of specialized translation that is potentially non-cultural and universal He argues that the advantages of technology transcend individual speech communities, emphasizing that technical translation should be approached as a translatable concept.
Institutional translation is inherently cultural, primarily transferring terms unless they relate to international organizations Despite their differing approaches to technical translation, both authors agree that it is a form of specialized translation characterized by its focus on "specialized terms."
Translation of terminology 11
Neologisms, defined by Newmark (1995:140) as newly coined lexical units or existing units that gain new meanings, pose significant challenges for non-literary and professional translators These terms often emerge to address specific needs, typically carrying a single meaning that allows for translation out of context However, many neologisms quickly evolve to acquire additional meanings in the target language (TL) Newmark categorizes neologisms into twelve types, including old words with new senses, new coinages, derived words, abbreviations, collocations, eponyms, phrasal words, transferred words, acronyms, pseudo-neologisms, and the creation of neologisms, providing strategies for handling each type This article will focus on the most relevant types for translation studies.
I.3.2.1 Old words with new senses
According to Newmark (1995), certain terms typically do not denote new objects or processes, making them non-cultural and non-technical These terms are often translated using existing equivalents in the target language (TL) or through concise functional or descriptive phrases, such as translating "structural support" to "đỡ kết cấu" and "canopy" to "mái che cửa ra vào."
Existing collocations with a new meaning can pose challenges for translators These challenges can be cultural or non-cultural in nature When the referent exists in the target language (TL), there is often a recognized translation or a straightforward rendering However, if the concept is unfamiliar to TL speakers or does not exist, it is essential to provide an economical descriptive equivalent.
According to Newmark (1995), new collocations, including noun compounds and adjective-noun combinations, are particularly prevalent in the social sciences In architecture, terms like "compressive strength," "compound unit," and "covered porch" illustrate this phenomenon However, some collocations, such as "SFB instructions," may not have direct equivalents in the target language (TL) In these instances, translators are expected to convey the meaning by transferring the original term and supplementing it with a functional-descriptive term While creating a new neologism is an option, it presents a significant challenge for translators.
According to Newmark (1995:200), an acronym is formed by the initial letters of words that create a group used to denote an object, institution, or procedure Often, acronyms may be specifically created for a text, making it impractical to search for them in reference materials Additionally, cultural factors influence whether an acronym should be translated, depending on aspects such as the target audience and context In scientific fields, some acronyms become international terms, like "laser" and "master," which may require less analysis for general understanding.
In translation, the significance of acronyms influences their translation approach Acronyms representing institutions or company names are often transferred directly When a political or social organization gains prominence, it is typical to transfer its acronym while translating its full name Additionally, acronyms may be translated using a standard equivalent term or a descriptive term if a standard translation is not available.
AN OVERVIEW OF ARCHITECTURE TERMS 14
Architecture terms possess typical features of terminology 14
Architecture terms are emotionally neutral with denotative meaning and most of them have one-to-one relationship with the concept they refer to
A voltmeter, or vôn kế, is an essential instrument used to measure the voltage difference between various points in an electrical circuit.
Or the term “Hygrometer” (ẩm kế) refers to the only one concept that denotes An instrument for measuring the degree of moisture of the atmosphere
Similarly, there are enless examples of single meaning terms such as
“Thermometer” (nhiệt kế); “sound pressure meter” (đồng hồ đo áp suất âm thanh)… that respectively refer to a single concept
In architecture, the meaning of specific terms is influenced by their relationships with other terms within the same system and their position within that system This interconnectedness defines how these terms are understood in the context of architectural discourse.
In architecture, the term "section" refers to a cross-section (mặt cắt), while "plan" denotes a floor plan (mặt bằng), particularly in the context of "plan of stanchions" (mặt bằng cột).
Architecture terms surely are used internationally Though, they may appear in similar or different forms in different languages, they refer to the same concepts that exist in different cultures
Architecture terms are made up from the material of the language that contains them For example, to denote the small part of a building English language uses the term
“unit” whereas Vietnamese uses “chi tiết” with its own way of word formation, spelling, pronouncing and writing
Many architecture terms have become so popular that they are no longer regarded as technical terms but ordinary words in daily life of the user
Classification of architecture terms according to their structural patterns 15
Architecture terms are divided into two sub-groups according to their structural features: single terms and compound terms
II.2.1.1 Single term in form of a verb
A key aspect of these terms is their flexibility, as they can function as either verbs or nouns within the same text or sentence, helping to prevent repetition Most verbs have corresponding nouns that serve as suitable alternatives.
Erect Erection Sự lắp dựng
Decorate Decoration Sự trang trí
Fix Fixation Sự cố định
Excavate Excavation Sự đào đất
An essential characteristic of these verbs is their tendency to collocate with specific nouns For instance, certain verbs typically pair with one or two particular nouns, demonstrating a clear relationship in usage.
Excavate the ground Đào đất nền
Construct the concrete foundations Xây dựng móng bê tông
Fix the column base plates Cố định tấm đế chân cột
Erect the steel columns Lắp dựng các cột thép
II.2.1.2 Single term in form of a noun
The terms that are nouns (also including those deriving from verbs) can be divided into subgroup as follows:
Many architectural terms often adopt specialized meanings that differ from their everyday usage For instance, the word "section" typically refers to a part or division of something, but in architecture, it signifies a crucial design element used in building construction Other architectural terms also transform in meaning, reflecting their specific applications within the field.
Translators often face challenges when specialized terms in fields like architecture diverge from their general English meanings Although users may be familiar with the standard definitions, they can become confused when encountering these words in a specific context that presents an unfamiliar interpretation.
Every discipline has its own specialized terminology, which is essential for mastering the subject Without a foundational understanding of the field, users may struggle to comprehend these technical terms.
Combustibility Độ bắt lửa của vật liệu
These highly architecture terms can be really problematic if the users are equipped with little knowledge of both their subject discipline and of English
II.2.1.3 Single term in form of an adjective
Unlike technical terms in the form of a verb, almost all the terms in the form of an adjective do not have their nouns to be used as alternatives:
Trabeated Kết cấu dạng dầm cột
Framed Kết cấu dạng khung
Arcuated Kết cấu dang vòm
One important feature of these adjectives is that all of them usually collate with one or two certain nouns to form collocations:
Internal/ external surface Bề mặt trong/ ngoài
Longitudinal section Mặt cắt dọc
Corrugated iron roof Mái sắt lượn sóng
Machined flat Bề mặt gia công bằng máy
We have studied single architecture terms that account for significant proportion of the collected terms
Terms composed of two or more words, often from different parts of speech, form nominal groups as defined by Halliday These combinations create meaningful phrases that convey specific concepts.
Before examining the terms, which appear in the form of nominal groups, we would like to go through a brief investigation of the experiential structure of the nominal group
The nominal group structure, as defined by Halliday (1985: 180), consists of the head noun, referred to as the Thing, which is preceded by elements such as Deictic, Numerative, Epithet, and Classifier, and is followed by a Qualifier This structure can be effectively illustrated in a table format.
Deictic Numerative Epithet Epithet Classifier Thing Qualifier
Those two splendid old electric trains with pantographs All these items functioning as pre-modifier and post-modifier will be briefly presented in the following table:
The Deictic element indicates whether or not some specific subset of the Thing is intended It is either (1) specific or (2) non-specific
The Numerative element indicates some numerical feature of the subset: either (1) quantity or (2) order, either exact or inexact
(2) First, second, few, little, many …
This item, usually in the form of an adjective, indicates some quality of the subset This can be
(1) an object property of the thing itself; or (2) it may be an expression of the speaker’s subjective attitude towards it
(1) Old, short, heavy … (2)Wonderful, splendid, silly …
The Classifier indicates a particular subclass of the thing in the question It can be (1) an adjective or (2) a noun
The Thing is the semantic core of the nominal group, which may be common noun, proper noun, or personal noun
Qualifier This element follows the Thing and Hard water occurs in characterized it It can be a relative clause or a prepositional phrase areas which have soluble salts in the ground
The role of classifiers in language requires further exploration, as both adjectives and nouns serve as classifiers Additionally, verbs can also be integrated into the nominal group, functioning as either an epithet or a classifier in one of two forms.
(1) present (active) participle, V-ing, e.g insulating, as in insulating roof
(2) past (passive, or intransitive active) participle, V-en, e.g rolled, as in rolled metal sheet
When used as epithets, these forms typically convey the meaning of the finite tense they are associated with: the present participle indicates "which is (was/will be) ing," while the past participle signifies "which has (had/will have) been ed."
An insulating roof (a roof which is insulating)
Rolled metal sheet (a mental sheet which has been rolled)
When these form function as Classifier, they typically have the sense of a simple present, active or passive: present (active) “which…s”, past (passive) “which …ed”
Tapering column (a column that tapers)
Covered porch (a porch that is covered)
Often the participle itself further modified, as in an architect-designed house, pre- existing condition, a fast-moving train, a fund-raising activity
Sometimes, the same word may function as either Epithet or Classifier, with different meaning
"Fast trains" refers to high-speed trains that are designed for rapid travel The term "fast" serves as an epithet, highlighting the speed of these trains, and functions as a classifier, categorizing them as a subtype known as "express trains."
It is noted that usually several classifiers cluster around a thing to indicate subclasses of more concreteness Nouns, adjectives, participles, positioned near the Thing, are most common classifier in English
II.2.2.2 Architecture terms in the form of nominal group
A number of high-frequency nominal groups have been found among terms collected for this study
II.2.2.2.1 Term consisting of Classifier (noun) + Thing
In the realm of language, certain terms are formed by two nouns, where the first noun acts as a Classifier, distinguishing the second noun from others in the same category For instance, in the term "roof beam," the word "roof" differentiates this specific type of beam from others like "floor beam," "steel beam," and "concrete beam." This classification system is essential for clarity and precision in communication.
Frame construction (Xây dựng khung)
Plannar construction (Xây dựng tấm phẳng)
Mass construction (Xây dựng khối)
II.2.2.2.2 Terms consisting of Classifier (adjective) + Thing
A term of this group is formed by an adjective that serves as Classifier and the Thing (the head noun)
Uneven/ flat surface Bề mặt không phẳng/ phẳng
Long/ short side Cạnh dài/ ngắn
Spatial dimension Kích thước không gian
Sectional area Diện tích mặt cắt
The Classifier as mentioned in (II.2.2.1), can be further modified by another sub- classifier that takes on the form of a noun or an adjective:
Rolled metal sheet Tấm kim loại cán
Mental roof decking Mái kim loại
External fire escapes Lối thoát hoả hoạn bên ngoài
And several classifiers cluster around a Thing to indicate subclasses of more concreteness like the followings:
II.2.2.2.3 Term consisting of Classifier/Epithet (present participle + thing)
In this group, some V-ing function as (1) Epithet and some as (2) Classifier:
(1) Vertical cladding panels are fixed (Cố định các tấm tường bao đứng) In this example, cladding panels means the panels which is cladding vertically
(2) Load bearing corner unit (chit tiết góc chịu lực) = the corner unit which bears load
However, there are some others can be either Classifier or Epithet when they are interpreted in different situations:
Insulating roof Mái cách nhiệt
Tapering column Cột tường tiết diện thu hẹp
II.2.2.2.4 Term consisting of Classifier/Epithet (past participle + thing)
Like V-ing participle, some V-ed function as either Classifier or Epithet, and when it serves the role of Classifier or Epithet depends on different situations:
Deposited materials Vật liệu đóng cặn
II.2.2.2.5 Term consisting of Thing + Qualifier
The Qualifier in this group is usually “of noun phrase”:
Plan of a house Mặt bằng của một ngôi nhà
Span of the arch Nhịp của mái vòm
Back of the building Tường hậu của toà nhà
Long axis of the building Trục dài của toà nhà
Blocks of materials Khối vật liệu
Factor of safety Hệ số an toàn
This study examines the structural patterns of nominal groups in English, focusing specifically on architectural terminology We classify these terms into two main categories: "single terms" and "compound terms." Single terms are further divided into sub-architecture and high-architecture terms, while compound terms also contain various subgroups.
In this section, we will examine the current translation strategies and procedures employed for translating architectural terminology, identifying the most effective methods for application.
Chapter conclusion 21
III.1 THE TRANSLATION OF ARCHITECTURE TERMS OF EQUIVALENCE GROUP
III.1.2 An overview of equivalence relationship in the translation of architecture terms
From collected data we can group equivalence relationship into four categories, excluding the one-to-zero which will be studied in chapter III:
The four following tables present some typical examples of each type:
Structural support Đỡ kết cấu
Compressive strength Cường độ chịu nén
Khoảng đất mặt trước nhà
THE TRANSLATION OF ARCHITECTURE TERMS 22
The translation of architecture terms of equivalence group 22
III.1.2 An overview of equivalence relationship in the translation of architecture terms
From collected data we can group equivalence relationship into four categories, excluding the one-to-zero which will be studied in chapter III:
The four following tables present some typical examples of each type:
Structural support Đỡ kết cấu
Compressive strength Cường độ chịu nén
Khoảng đất mặt trước nhà
Tổng diện tích sàn xây dựng
Door frame/case Khung cửa
Bản vẽ TK chi tiết Bản vẽ thiết kế cơ bản Bản vẽ Thi công chi tiết Bản vẽ hoàn công Bản vẽ phối cảnh Flat roof
Mái bằng Mái dốc Mái tôn Center-to center dimension
Khoảng cách từ tim qua tim Khoảng cách thông thuỷ
In a one-to-one equivalence relationship, translators must identify Vietnamese terms that correspond to English concepts While this task may appear straightforward, it can be challenging for those lacking architectural knowledge in both countries or unfamiliar with specific terminology For instance, the term "Elevation" in general English refers to raising something to a higher position, but in architecture, it has a distinct meaning Thus, a solid understanding of the subject is essential for producing an accurate translation, even when employing one-to-one equivalence.
In the Vietnamese language, a challenge arises when multiple competing terms exist for the same concept, highlighting the one-to-many equivalence relationship Translators face the difficult task of selecting the most appropriate Vietnamese equivalent to ensure that the translated content remains clear and comprehensible.
In many-to-one equivalence relationships, translators face minimal challenges since the context often provides clues for understanding the term's meaning Typically, among multiple terms in the source language that refer to the same concept, one term tends to be more widely accepted Consequently, the chances of encountering a completely new term for a common concept are significantly reduced.
Many-to-many equivalence relationships occur when multiple source language (SL) expressions correspond to several target language (TL) equivalents Although translators face fewer challenges than with non-equivalence issues, they still need to carefully select the most suitable and understandable equivalent for their intended audience in specific contexts.
III.1.3 The common strategies and procedures used in translation of Architecture terms of equivalence group
III.1.3.1 The translation of single terms-Old words with new senses
In the field of architecture, many single-word terms, both sub-architecture and high-architecture, significantly outnumber compound terms, presenting challenges for translators These terms can be categorized as "Old words with new sense," as they are already part of the English language and are commonly used in their original meanings However, within the specialized context of architecture, these words take on new, field-specific meanings that require careful analysis.
It's important to recognize that not all Vietnamese terms serve as direct equivalents to English single terms, particularly when considering their form This distinction is often quite noticeable For instance, the English term "combustibility" is a single word, but its Vietnamese translation "độ bắt lửa của vật liệu" transforms it into a noun phrase, structured as "head noun (độ bắt lửa) + of (của) + postmodifier (vật liệu)." Other examples further illustrate this phenomenon.
English terms (single word) Vietnamese terms (compounds)
(See more examples in Appendix 1)
III.1.3.2 The translation of compound terms by rank shift or transposition
According to translation theory, translating specific term groups requires a grammatical transformation from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL), a process known as transposition or shift.
Group 1: Terms translated with transposition procedure which involves the automatic change in the word order from SL to TL
The shift in word order between English and Vietnamese nominal groups necessitates a change in the position of adjectives or modifying elements According to Van (1998), a key difference is that in English, the Classifier and Epithet elements come before the Thing, whereas in Vietnamese, they follow it.
Classifier/Epithet + Thing Thing + Classifier Terms can be translated by this transposition are:
Fireproof materials Vật liệu chống cháy
Steel tape Thước cuộn bằng lá thép
Bay Window Cửa sổ chìa
Bottom Rail Thanh bậu cửa
Sheet materials Vật liệu dạng tấm
Gravitational force Lực trọng trường
Anthropometric data Số liệu nhân trắc học
Barrel Roof Mái vòm (hình trụ)
Open space Không gian trống
Transposing elements from English to Vietnamese involves a straightforward procedure where translators must first identify the divisions within the group and then adjust the word order to match Vietnamese syntax This method simplifies the translation of longer nominal groups, allowing for a more accurate and coherent conversion.
English word order Vietnamese word order
Vertical slid window Cửa sổ trượt theo chiều thẳng đứng Cross sectional area Diện tích mặt cắt ngang
Single storey building Nhà một tầng
Ground slab foundation Móng sàn nền
Rolled metal sheet Tấm kim loại cán
This type of transposition is very useful because it is applicable to nominal groups of different types, especially longer nominal group as follows:
English word order Vietnamese word order
Rough wooden plank Bản gỗ ráp
Non-slip ceramic tile Gạch men chống trượt
Water Supply and Drainage Isometric Diagram Sơ đồ không gian cấp thoát nước
Ceiling Access Opening Lỗ thăm trần
Waste Water Treatment Plant Trạm xử lý nước thải
(See more examples in Appendix 2)
The Vietnamese equivalents that sound stiff or fail to accord with natural usage in Vietnamese are put under the heading “literal translation” which will be examined in the
Group 2: Terms consisting of Classifier (past participle) + Thing
The terms in this group can be translated through either automatic transposition or rank shift, which alters the grammatical structure of specific items in the source language (SL) For instance, an English nominal group may correspond to a clause in Vietnamese.
(1) Jacked pile = cọc nâng bằng kích
A change in the position of V-ed functioning as Classifier is needed so that the Vietnamese version sounds naturally and accords to the word order in Vietnamese nominal group
(2) Jacked pile = cọc được nâng bằng kích
While sentence (2) is longer than sentence (1), it offers greater semantic clarity, making both sentences understandable to readers Although the shorter version is favored for its conciseness and technical tone, the longer version is prioritized for its comprehensibility in Vietnamese.
Bored pile Cọc lỗ khoan, cọc xoắn vít
Stabilized soil Đất ổn định
Fixed window Cửa sổ chết, cố định (không mở)
Rolled fill San lấp (bằng xe lu)
(See more examples in Appendix 3)
III.1.3.3 The translation strategy which involves the deletion of "OF"
Group 3: Terms consisting of Thing + Qualifier (noun of noun/ noun phrase)
In Chapter II, it is noted that many architectural terms follow the structure "Thing + Qualifier (of phrase)." While literal translation into Vietnamese is grammatically permissible, it often fails to reflect natural usage in the language For instance, certain terms may lose their intended meaning or clarity when translated directly, highlighting the need for a more contextually appropriate approach in translation.
Cubage of the building Khối tích của công trình
A sense of unity Cảm giác của sự nhất quán
Angle of repose Góc của sự nghỉ
Infiltration (of water) Sự thấm (lọc) qua của nước
The calculation of flood flow characteristics is essential in understanding flood dynamics While translating technical terms, it's common to omit certain prepositions, such as "of," to enhance the natural flow of the Vietnamese language This approach ensures that the translation aligns better with architectural terminology, providing clarity and coherence in the context.
Translators must carefully determine when to omit or include elements in a translation to ensure that the final version is both readable and natural, as simply deleting words like "OF" is not always the best choice.
Cubage of the building Khối tích của công trình
A sense of unity Cảm giác nhất quán
Angle of repose Góc nghỉ
Infiltration (of water) Sự thấm (lọc) qua của nước
Calculation of Flood Flow Characteristics Tính toán đặc trưng dòng chảy lũ
In the revised examples, the Vietnamese translations appear more natural and easier to read By eliminating the word "OF," translators can create concise expressions that maintain reader engagement However, this translation strategy should be employed judiciously, ensuring that the benefits of a smoother translation outweigh the importance of precise contextual rendering.
Translators employ various techniques when addressing architectural terminology, acknowledging the absence of a definitive translation theory Regardless of their experience level, both amateur and professional translators utilize strategies—such as the deletion of "OF"—and procedures like transposition or rank-shift to achieve equivalence in their translations This reliance on established translation methods is intrinsic to their work, whether they are aware of it or not.
III.2 THE TRANSLATION OF ARCHITECTURE TERMS OF NON-
III.2.1 Non-equivalence at word level in the translation of Architecture terms
Mona Baker (1992) defines non-equivalence at the word level as the absence of a direct equivalent in the target language (TL) for a word found in the source text (ST) The challenges posed by non-equivalence can vary significantly based on its nature, necessitating diverse strategies for translation Some instances of non-equivalence are straightforward to address, while others may be more complex and challenging to manage.
The followings are different kinds of non-equivalence (cited in Nhan, N.T 2005):
2 The SL concept is not lexicalized in the TL
3 The SL word is semantically complex
4 The SL and TL make different distinctions in meaning
6 The TL lacks a specific term (hyponym)
7 Differences in physical or interpersonal perspective
11 The use of loan words in the source text
The non-equivalence problem discussed in this study is to briefly provide an insight into how architecture terms in Neufert are translated in the Vietnamese version
III.2.2 The strategies, procedures and methods employed in dealing with non- equivalence problem in the translation of Architecture terms
III.2.2.1 Translation of terms with transference procedure (the use of loan word)
Acronyms serve to identify products, appliances, processes, and international institutions within a specific text In translation, they can be either decoded or transferred; when introduced for the first time, they typically include both the English and Vietnamese full forms, while subsequent mentions omit the full forms for brevity.
Maintenance factor is proportion (expressed as decimal) of initial illuminance to which illuminance falls mid way between cleaning and relamping periods
Yếu tố bảo trì (Maintenance factor-MF)
Yếu tố bảo trì được định nghĩa là tỷ lệ (biểu thị bằng số thập phân) giữa độ sáng ban đầu và độ sáng khi đã giảm xuống mức 50%, trong khoảng thời gian giữa hai giai đoạn vệ sinh và thay thế bóng đèn mới.
MF therefore refers to dirtying of lluminaires…
Bởi thế, MF đề cập đến sự dơ bẩn của nguồn sáng…
The second example can better prove the convenience of using acronyms in translation:
In humid and temperate climates, the daylight factor (DF) is essential for effective daylighting design It serves as a practical foundation for estimating and measuring daylight levels in Britain The DF concept is particularly valuable because, despite variations in outdoor illuminance, indoor illuminance will adjust accordingly, ensuring that the DF remains consistent for practical applications.
Thông độ sáng ban ngày DF (Daylight factor)
Do sự biến đổi của độ sáng ban ngày, khí hậu, nhiệt độ và độ ẩm ở từng quốc gia, thiết kế ánh sáng ban ngày (DF) được định nghĩa để cung cấp cơ sở thực tế cho việc đánh giá và đo lường thông số DF tại Anh Độ chiếu sáng bên ngoài có thể ảnh hưởng đến độ chiếu sáng bên trong DF, nhưng tài liệu liên quan cũng thay đổi theo Tuy nhiên, đối với các mục đích thực tế, DF vẫn giữ nguyên giá trị của nó.
(See more examples in Appendix 5)
It is at easy for one to recognize the convenience of using acronyms in translation
The examples above illustrate that translations can become cumbersome and complex without the use of acronyms Translators increasingly rely on acronyms as an effective strategy to address the non-equivalence issues that stem from cultural differences in the field of architecture.
When translating acronyms like RI, CIE, and UF, which represent organizations, international standards, or measurement units unfamiliar to Vietnamese speakers, translators must exercise caution It is essential to carefully consider the appropriate usage of these acronyms to ensure that the translated text remains clear and accessible to the target audience.
Group 5: Terms referring to modern concepts that are not technically lexicalized in Vietnamese
The creation of new terms in a target culture is essential when new concepts emerge or are introduced from different cultures, yet this process can be both challenging and time-consuming Often, it is not feasible to find an exact Vietnamese equivalent for certain English terms, leading to the use of English loanwords in Vietnamese These loanwords may be adapted to fit Vietnamese pronunciation and morphology Additionally, English terms are sometimes accompanied by functional descriptive equivalents to provide clarification and enhance understanding.
Vermiculite Vermiculite (chất khoáng bón cây)
(đá nhân ta ̣o bằng xi- măng trô ̣n granit vu ̣n)
Linoleum Linoleum (vải sơn lót sàn nhà)
Bituminous Bitum (có rải nhựa đường)
(See more examples in Appendix 6)
III.2.2.2 The translation of terms by paraphrase
Paraphrasing is frequently utilized by translators, often as a last option This technique involves providing an explanation of the meaning of the original content In the next section, we will explore how various architectural terms are translated through paraphrasing.
Group 6: Terms referring to culture-specific concepts
The architectural sub-culture in Western countries is significantly more developed than that of Vietnam, leading to a gap in architectural terminology Many architectural terms are unfamiliar to Vietnamese readers and are often expressed using their English counterparts Since these terms lack direct equivalents in Vietnamese, translators are compelled to paraphrase them to convey their meanings effectively.
Shell Cao ốc đạng shell loại cao ốc tồn tại ít nhất 50 năm
Cao ốc dạng shell và service sẽ dần trở nên lỗi thời do sự thay đổi trong kỹ thuật văn phòng, yêu cầu phải được thay thế ít nhất 15 năm một lần.
Cao ốc dạng scenery là lựa chọn lý tưởng cho nội thất văn phòng, đáp ứng yêu cầu cấu trúc cao và tính năng sử dụng Loại cao ốc này thường phù hợp với hợp đồng thuê từ 5 đến 7 năm, mang lại sự linh hoạt và tiện nghi cho không gian làm việc.
Cao ốc dạng sets là loại kiến trúc được thiết kế với sự sắp xếp và trang trí linh hoạt, bao gồm bàn, ghế, màn gió và vách ngăn Mô hình này đáp ứng nhu cầu thay đổi của các tổ chức một cách nhanh chóng, với khả năng điều chỉnh mỗi 3 đến 4 tháng.
(See more examples in Appendix 7)
Translators often opt for explanation and paraphrasing over direct translation due to the lack of Vietnamese equivalents and the presence of culturally specific concepts unfamiliar to Vietnamese audiences For instance, the term "Shell" illustrates this point; in Vietnam, buildings are classified into categories A, B, and C based on their quality and facilities, while Western countries categorize them according to the age of the contract By providing thorough explanations of such terms, translators can ensure that the intended meaning is effectively conveyed and understood by the target readers.
While this strategy is beneficial, it has two main drawbacks Firstly, a paraphrase lacks the stability of a fixed lexical item, which means it may not convey the original expressive or associative meanings in the target language (TL) Secondly, substituting a term in the source language (SL) with a lengthy explanation in the TL can lead to cumbersome and awkward phrasing.
III.2.2.3 The translation of terms with communicative method
Paraphrasing is an effective strategy for addressing non-equivalence issues, particularly when dealing with culture-specific concepts This section will explore how the communicative method is utilized to resolve these challenges in translation.
Group 7: Terms referring to culture-specific concepts
II.1 Suggestion for transference procedure
Transference has gained significant popularity in translating technical and architectural terms, offering both advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages of borrowing English words into the target language (TL) are significant, particularly when addressing non-equivalence issues Many concepts lack established terminology in the TL, making direct borrowing a practical solution for translators This approach enables concise and accurate translations without delving deeply into the term's meaning, thereby reducing the risk of false translations, especially for entirely new terms Furthermore, when borrowed words are used alongside functional-descriptive terms, they become integrated into Vietnamese lexis, losing their status as loans over time.
The use of loanwords in Vietnamese raises concerns about preserving the language's purity and clarity, as it may undermine national terminology characteristics Additionally, maintaining the original spelling of these borrowed terms can create challenges for readers, particularly those with limited English proficiency.
Despite some drawbacks, the advantages of using loan words significantly outweigh the disadvantages This is evident in their popularity among translators and specialist readers, who often prefer these terms and can utilize them without requiring additional descriptive explanations.
II.2 Suggestion for transposition procedure
Translators employ various types of transposition to effectively translate diverse groups of terms, serving as a valuable tool for addressing non-equivalence caused by differences in word formation and structural patterns between languages While transference aids in resolving non-equivalence at the word level, transposition addresses issues at both the word and above-word levels Different types of transposition play a crucial role in overcoming specific translation challenges.
II.3 Suggestion for paraphrase strategy
This strategy effectively addresses the issue of non-equivalence in translation, particularly when concepts in the source language (SL) lack direct counterparts in the target language (TL) While some loss of meaning may be inevitable, this approach enhances clarity and accessibility for readers However, translators must balance thorough explanations with the need for conciseness in the translated text, avoiding overuse of this strategy to maintain the integrity of the translation.
II.4 Suggestion for communicative method
The communicative translation method offers translators greater freedom and flexibility, resulting in smoother and more accessible texts that enhance reader comprehension This approach effectively addresses non-equivalence issues, enabling translators to find suitable target language equivalents for terms that lack direct translations in the source language Undoubtedly, the communicative method is an excellent choice for translators seeking to improve the clarity and effectiveness of their translations.
The communicative method is favored by many translators for its flexibility; however, it presents a significant challenge in determining the appropriate level of simplification to convey the core message When technical terms are oversimplified or not accurately translated, essential nuances of meaning can be lost, impacting the overall effectiveness of the translation.
In conclusion, despite its challenges, the communicative method remains a viable option for translators However, if meaning loss is an inherent issue with this approach, it is highly advisable for translators to include the original English text alongside the translated version.
II.5 Suggestion for literal translation
Literal translation is the initial step in the translation process, as translators often begin by translating terms or texts to grasp their basic meanings However, relying solely on literal translation can lead to clumsy and complicated results, making the final text difficult for readers to understand Therefore, while literal translation is important, it should not be the only method employed in creating accessible translations.
Literal translation is often inadequate for addressing translation challenges, particularly when it comes to non-equivalence at levels beyond individual words This approach fails to convey the same impact to the target audience as it does to the original readers.
Therefore, it is a good advice for the translators to avoid literal translation unless the SL and TL meaning correspond more closely than any other choices
II.6 Suggestion for further studies
Due to time constraints, we have been unable to gather all translated versions for comparison and analysis We recognize that this task is challenging, as only a limited number of translators are working on translating architectural terms into Vietnamese.
To enhance research on the equivalence of architectural terminology between English and Vietnamese, it is essential to focus on gathering and analyzing a broader range of modern architectural terms.
As researchers, our goal is to identify a comprehensive list of non-equivalence terms in architecture, aiming to create a glossary that serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the field.
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Việt: Một số vấn đề về lý luận và phương pháp cơ bản VNU, College of foreign
18 http://www.archiseek.com/guides/glossary/f.html
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Terminology in the Materials for Electrical Engineering VNU, College of foreign
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Vietnamese Translation of Insurance terms in US health insurance plans VNU, College of foreign Languages (Unpublished)
Landscape Architect Kiến trúc sư thiết kế ngoại cảnh
Location Map Hoạ đồ vị trí (công trình)
Construction Site Công trường xây dựng
Ground Floor Sàn tầng trệt
Steel Truss Vì kèo thép
Steel Purlin Xà gồ thép
Plywood Ceiling Trần ván ép
Floor Drain Phễu thu sàn
Design level Cao độ thiết kế
Window sill Bệ cửa sổ
Glass wool Bông thuỷ tinh
Butimen roof Mái giấy dầu
Coarse aggregate Cốt liệu thô
Fine aggregate Cốt liệu mịn
Gable wall Tường đầu hồi
Perspective Drawing Bản vẽ phối cảnh
Artificial Stone Đá nhân tạo
Internal Pavement Đường nội bộ
Igneous rock Đá hỏa sinh
Differential settlement Sự chênh lệch lún
Retractable Roof Mái che co rút được
Preliminary Design Thiết kế sơ bộ
General Plan Tổng Mặt bằng
Metal Gutter Máng xối tôn
Septic Tank Hầm tự hoại
Capillary water Nước mao dẫn
Luminous flux Thông lượng ánh sáng
Longitudinal section Mặt cắt dọc
Cross section Mặt cắt ngang
Acoustic Board Ceiling Trần cách âm
Metal Sheet Ceiling Trần tôn
Conceptual Design Drawings Bản vẽ thiết kế cơ bản
Mental sheet ceiling Trần tôn
Thermal insulation layer Lớp cách nhiệt
Technical Pipe Shaft Hộp gen kỹ thuật
Metal sheet Roof Mái tôn
Underground Water Tank Hồ nước ngầm
Total Floor area Tổng diện tích sàn xây dựng
Conceptual Design Drawings Bản vẽ thiết kế cơ bản
Front view Elevation Mặt đứng chính
Gypsum Board Ceiling Trần thạch cao
(Adjective/ V-ed + (Adjective/ Noun) + Noun + Noun)
Concealed gypsum board ceiling Trần thạch cao khung chìm
Detailed Design Drawings Bản vẽ TK chi tiết
Decomposed granite gravel Cuội granit bị phân hủy Finished ground level Cao trình đất hoàn thiện Reduced Scale Model Mô hình (công trinh) thu nhỏ
Good sound insulation Cách âm tốt
High compressive strength Cường độ chịu nén cao
Rolled mental sheet Tấm kim loại cán
Reiforced concrete section Mặt cắt bê tông cốt thép Typical tensile strength Cường độ chịu nén đặc trưng Conceptual Design Drawings Bản vẽ thiết kế cơ bản
Thermal insulation layer Lớp cách nhiệt
Acoustic Board Ceiling Trần cách âm
Equilibrum moisture constant Độ ẩm cân bằng
Finished ground level Cao trình đất hoàn thiện
Short, more technical Long, but clearer
Stabilized soil Đất ổn định Đất đã ổn định
Detached house Nhà biệt lập Nhà bị biệt lập
Suspended Ceiling Trần treo Trần được treo
Benched foundation Móng có bậc, móng giật cấp Móng có bậc, móng được giật cấp
Cased pile Cọc có vỏ bọc Cọc được bọc vỏ
Prestressed concrete Bê tông dự ứng lực Bê tông được dự ứng lực
Pressed brick Gạch ép/ nén Gạch bị ép/ nén
Premixed concrete, also known as ready-mix concrete, is a construction material that is prepared in advance for immediate use Prefabricated units, or manufactured components, are structures created off-site and assembled on location, enhancing efficiency in construction projects Revised drawings refer to updated blueprints that have undergone modifications to improve accuracy and design.
Fixed joint Liên kết ngầm Liên kết được cố định
Concealed ceiling Trần chìm Trần được che
Composition of force Tổng hợp lực
Penetration of pile Độ xuyên sâu cọc
Percentage of sand Tỉ lệ phần trăm cát