技术翻译汉译英的翻译规范研究——基于翻译实践案例的分析

A Study of Translation Norms for Chinese-to-English Technical Translation: An Analysis Based on Translation Practice

摘要: 技术翻译属于非文学翻译，以规范为要义，其中操作手册的翻译规范尤为严格。译文既要易于理解，又须符合目标语法律要求，翻译不准确可能导致误解、产品误用甚至法律纠纷。本文以译者本人的翻译实践为案例材料，材料涵盖石油化工、零部件制造、物流等行业的设备操作手册、说明书及管理维护章程的汉译英。文章从语言规范、风格规范、语义规范三个维度探讨操作手册翻译中译者应遵守的准则。语言规范强调术语一致性、语法句法的简洁清晰及主被动语态的转换；风格规范关注用词的强制性、句式的简明性及格式的适配性；语义规范则要求消除歧义，并兼顾单复数、多义词等细节，避免因误译引发操作风险。研究表明，翻译规范直接决定译文的实用价值与法律效力，同时，技术翻译标准往往受赞助人影响，并非普遍适用，翻译实践应具体情况具体分析。

Abstract: Technical translation is a form of non-literary translation in which adherence to translation norms is of paramount importance. The translation of operation manuals, in particular, is subject to stringent requirements. Translations must not only be clear and easy to understand but also comply with the legal requirements of the target language and jurisdiction. Inaccurate translation may result in misunderstanding, improper use of products, or even legal disputes. Drawing on the author’s own translation practice, this study examines Chinese-to-English translations of equipment operation manuals, instructions, and management and maintenance regulations from such industries as petrochemicals, component manufacturing, and logistics. It explores the norms that translators should observe in the translation of operation manuals from three dimensions: linguistic norms, stylistic norms, and semantic norms. Linguistic norms emphasize terminological consistency, concise and clear grammar and syntax, and appropriate shifts between active and passive voice. Stylistic norms focus on the appropriate use of mandatory language, concise sentence structures, and format adaptation. Semantic norms require translators to eliminate ambiguity while paying close attention to details such as singular and plural forms and polysemous words, thereby avoiding operational risks caused by mistranslation. The study finds that translation norms directly determine the practical value and legal validity of translated texts. At the same time, technical translation standards are often shaped by the requirements of the client or commissioning party and therefore cannot be universally applied. Translation practice should accordingly be guided by a case-by-case approach.