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英文合同中常用詞詞義的選擇

發(fā)表時(shí)間:2019/07/29 00:00:00  瀏覽次數(shù):4649  
字體大小: 【小】 【中】 【大】

        SELECTION OF USED WORDS IN ENGLISH CONTRACT
  在翻譯合同文件時(shí),會(huì)涉及到經(jīng)濟(jì)、法律、貿(mào)易、金融、技術(shù)等領(lǐng)域的專業(yè)詞匯,這些詞匯在不同的合同條款和上下文中的表達(dá)和詞義有很大區(qū)別。即使在同一專業(yè)中的詞義都有很大區(qū)別,因此我們必須仔細(xì)推敲,選擇最確切的詞義。例如:cover一詞,作為動(dòng)詞講一般都理解為“包括”,例如:The prices quoted in the brochure cover packing and are subject to 35%trade discount,可譯為:“小冊(cè)子所報(bào)的價(jià)格包括包裝費(fèi)在內(nèi),可有35%的商業(yè)折扣?!钡韵碌暮衏over的句子,就不能將cover譯成“包括”:
  (1) No doubt there must have been some reason for the delay in shipment. To cover this contingency we cabled you On Mar.29 that we were extending the letter of credit for two weeks.句中的cover應(yīng)理解為“應(yīng)付”,全句可譯成:
  無疑,一定有某種致使裝船延誤的原因。為應(yīng)付這一意外事件,我方已于3月29日電告你方,將信用證延期兩周。
  (2) If Party A insists on its original quotation. Party B will have to cover its requirements elsewhere.
  句中的cover指“購(gòu)進(jìn)貨物”,全句可譯成:
  如果甲方堅(jiān)持原報(bào)價(jià),則乙方只能從其他方面購(gòu)進(jìn)其需要的貨物。
  (3) In order to cover our order, we have arranged with the Bank of China, Dalian Branch, a credit for USD 55,000.
  句中的cover在這里表示“償付”,全句可譯成:
  為支付我方訂貨,我方已聯(lián)系中國(guó)銀行大連分行開立55,000美元的信用證。
  (4) Party B shall cover the goods with particular average.
  句中的cover在這里的含義為:to insure sth against toss,全句可譯成: 乙方將對(duì)該貨物投保水漬險(xiǎn)。
  英譯漢是如此,漢譯英時(shí)也應(yīng)該注意同類的問題。請(qǐng)看下面的句子: 如在解釋上有分歧,應(yīng)以英文本為準(zhǔn)。
  該句中的“解釋”在漢英詞典上可以有多種選擇,如:explanation,construe,exposition,interpretation,但該句中的“解釋”是對(duì)依法成立的合同條款的正式性解釋,應(yīng)選擇interpretation,全句可譯成:In case of any divergence of interpretations, the English text shall prevail。
  以上例子僅是選擇詞義的一個(gè)方面。本章將就合同翻譯時(shí)經(jīng)常碰到的詞義處理問題,歸納為三個(gè)方面:同義詞的選擇,一詞多義的問題,容易混淆的詞的處理?,F(xiàn)分述如下:
  1. Choice of Synonyms同義詞的選擇
  同義詞的選擇,通常從以下幾方面著手:
  1) Considering the Connotation根據(jù)單詞的內(nèi)涵進(jìn)行選擇
  例如,合同中經(jīng)常出現(xiàn)的to perform a contract, to fulfill a contract, to execute a contract, to implement a contract,這些短語都可以表示“履行合同”,從字面上看都對(duì)。然而在具體的合同條款中,表示履行不同的合同義務(wù)時(shí),其用法是有區(qū)別的。
  【EX1】With respect to the outstanding 180 MT of tow-density polyethylene NY2—11 under Contract No.79HP一106,we insist that you must open the covering letter of credit the soonest possible to secure the performance of the contract. We hereby would like to call your attention to the fact that the Adviser Inc. , who purchased LDPE NY2—11 fom us at the same time as you did have fulfilled their commitment under the previous Contract not tong after we offered our regulated price and signed a new contract covering substantial quantity.
  關(guān)于79HP一106號(hào)合同項(xiàng)下尚未執(zhí)行的180公噸NY2一11低密度聚乙烯,我們?nèi)匀徽J(rèn)為貴方應(yīng)盡快開證以保證履行合同。我們提請(qǐng)貴方注意,the Adviser Inc.和貴方同時(shí)向我方購(gòu)買NY2—11低密度聚乙烯,他們已經(jīng)在我方主動(dòng)調(diào)價(jià)后不久履行了原合同,而且又和我們簽訂了較大數(shù)量的新合同。
  該句子出現(xiàn)的“履行”分別使用了perform和fulfill。我們首先研究一下這對(duì)同義詞的內(nèi)涵:perform的法律含義是:to do what one party is obliged to do by a contract; fulfill的法律含義是:to do everything which is promised in a contract。其次,再研究一下合同各方應(yīng)履行的合同義務(wù):涉外合同一經(jīng)生效,雙方當(dāng)事人必須全面地、適當(dāng)?shù)芈男泻贤械牧x務(wù),但是具體對(duì)某一方合同當(dāng)事人來講,就是履行合同中最屬于他應(yīng)該履行的那部分責(zé)任和義務(wù)。比如,在國(guó)際貨物銷售合同中,對(duì)買方來說,“履行合同”的概念就是payment,當(dāng)然與payment有關(guān)的義務(wù)還有采用何種方式和支付工具付款等。如果該合同的價(jià)格條件是FOB的話,買方還要負(fù)責(zé)租船訂艙,支付運(yùn)費(fèi),并將船期、船號(hào)及時(shí)通知賣方等。因此,如果強(qiáng)調(diào)合同的一方履行合同與所規(guī)定的該方的那部分具體義務(wù)相同,應(yīng)該是fulfill a contract。如果是泛指雙方在合同中的各項(xiàng)責(zé)任和義務(wù)都應(yīng)得到履行,則選用perform a contract較合適。又如:The Contractor shall fulfill all of its duties and obligations in carrying out its work and services hereunder(承租人必須忠實(shí)信守和履行下列各項(xiàng)規(guī)則)。
  【EX2】合同在有效期內(nèi),雙方對(duì)合同產(chǎn)品涉及的技術(shù)如有改進(jìn)和發(fā)展,應(yīng)相互免費(fèi)將改進(jìn)和發(fā)展的技術(shù)資料提供給對(duì)方使用。
  Within the validity term of the Contract, both parties shall supply each other with the improvement and devetopment of the technotogy related to the Contract Products free of charge.
  該句的謂語動(dòng)詞“提供”一詞用了supply,就不如provide確切。盡管這兩個(gè)詞都表示“供
  給”,但在牽涉到金錢時(shí),provide則表示to give sb sth free of charge, supply則不太明確,一般來說需要給錢。因此,該條款雖然明確了free of charge,但用provide更恰當(dāng)。
  【EX3】改進(jìn)和開發(fā)的技術(shù),其所有權(quán)屬于改進(jìn)和開發(fā)一方。
  The improved and devetoped technotogy shall be owned by the party who has improved and devetoped the technotogy.
  如果將“屬于”改用belong to,其主語就應(yīng)該是ownership,表示“所有權(quán)屬于...”,因?yàn)閠he improved and devetoped technotogy屬于“知識(shí)產(chǎn)權(quán)”,而這種權(quán)利與物質(zhì)財(cái)產(chǎn)有直接聯(lián)系。這樣,該句還可以調(diào)整如下:
  The ownership of any improved and devetoped technotogy shall betong to the party who has improved and devetoped the technotogy.
  【EX4】本細(xì)則的解釋權(quán),屬于中華人民共和國(guó)財(cái)政部。
  句中的“屬于”是指power or right will be present or vested in sb or a body,故應(yīng)選用reside in。全句譯成:
  The right of interpreting the detailed Rules and Regulations resides in the Ministry of Finance of the People's Republic of China.
  2) Considering the Grammar根據(jù)句法要進(jìn)行選擇
  有些英語同義詞的選擇,是由句子的結(jié)構(gòu)和搭配所要求的,這時(shí)譯者應(yīng)認(rèn)真研究這些同義詞的搭配關(guān)系,避免出現(xiàn)句法搭配上的錯(cuò)誤。
  【EX5】合資經(jīng)營(yíng)企業(yè)的一切活動(dòng)應(yīng)遵守中華人民共和國(guó)法律。
  這一條款中“遵守”一詞,英語中有observe, obey, abide by, comply with等,在選擇表示“遵守”的詞匯時(shí),應(yīng)根據(jù)句子搭配關(guān)系進(jìn)行選擇。本句子中的主語是activity,漢語翻譯時(shí)應(yīng)選擇comply with,表示to act in accordance with a provision, rule, demand,故全句譯成:All the activities of a joint venture shall comply with the provision of laws, decrees and pertinent regulations of the People's Republic of China.
  在使用observe和abide by時(shí),其主語應(yīng)該是合同的當(dāng)事人,例如:The Contractor shall observe and abide by all applicable laws, rules and regulations in connection with the Work(承包方必須遵守和服從與該項(xiàng)工程有關(guān)的一切適用的法律、規(guī)章和條例)。
  再如,合同經(jīng)常出現(xiàn)的“由于”,在英語中,常用以下一組短語來表達(dá):due to, owing to, in view of, because of. considering, in consideration。請(qǐng)比較下列句子:
  (3)Sources suggested that this decline in exports is largely due to a sharp cutback in the credit offered by the Thai government to these countries.
  有消息說,這種出口下降主要是由于泰國(guó)政府向這些國(guó)家提供的信貸大幅度削減所造成的。
  (4) Because of the exceptional demand for electric blankets due to the prolonged cold weather, we are at present out of stock of the make you wish to order.
  由于天氣持續(xù)寒冷,電熱毯需求量特大,你方欲訂購(gòu)的制品目前正缺貨。
  以上兩句中,由due to引出的短語均屬形容詞性質(zhì)的短詞,分別在句中作表語和定語,一般不引出狀語。引出狀語,表示“由于”的短語往往選用because of和owing to。例如:
  (5) Owing to the increasing demand for this type of our products, our stocks have run very tow.
  由于對(duì)此種產(chǎn)品的需求日益增長(zhǎng),我方的存貨已不多了。
  (6)In consideration of your consistently good credibility, we can accept payment by D/P.
  由于貴公司信譽(yù)一直很好,我們可以同意以付款交單的方式接受付款。
  句子中的in consideration of引出的短語也可以表示“由于”,一般作狀語,而后面的介詞賓語必須是褒義詞,一般不用貶義詞.
  3) Considering the Style根據(jù)合同的文體進(jìn)行選擇
  合同英語屬條法英語,其文件的基本要求是用詞規(guī)范、正式、符合同定俗成的含義。
  在選擇同義詞時(shí),譯者應(yīng)充分考慮合同文本的特點(diǎn),選擇符合合同文體的正式的規(guī)范的詞匯,不能容許在文字選擇上存在隨意性。
  【EX6】買方須于銷售確認(rèn)書第三條所規(guī)定日期之前開出本批交易的信用證。否則,售方有權(quán)不經(jīng)通知取消本確認(rèn)書,或接受買方對(duì)本售貨確認(rèn)書未履行的全部或一部分,或?qū)σ虼嗽馐艿膿p失提出索賠。
  原譯文:The Buyer shall establish the covering letter of credit before the date specified in Clause Three of this Sales Confirmation, failing which the Seller reserves the right to rescind without further notice, or to accept whole or any part of this Sales Confirmation not fulfilled by the Buyer, or to todge a claim for tosses sustained, if any.
  該句條款中的“有權(quán)”,英文合同中大多選擇:to have the right或keep the right,但該句選用reserve the right to do sth. 比前兩種表達(dá)更正式,因?yàn)閞eserve本身就屬條法英語中的專用詞匯,表示to have a specified power of right in law。比如,我們經(jīng)??吹降摹鞍鏅?quán)所有”,用英語表達(dá)就是All rights reserved。
  【EX7】如乙方在技術(shù)資料的交付方面違約,不應(yīng)要求甲方立即支付任何專利權(quán)使用費(fèi)。 Party A shall not be asked to pay at once any royalties in default on the part of Party B to the Delivery of Technical Documentation.
  該譯文中的ask應(yīng)更換為require, ask和require的意思雖然都是“要求”,但后者更正式;句中的at once應(yīng)更換為forthwith,因?yàn)閒orthwith是公文體,較at once或immediately正式、嚴(yán)謹(jǐn)。例如:The Parties acknowledge and agree that the Joint Venture Company shall be formed forthwith upon satisfaction of the conditions(締約各方確認(rèn)并同意,一旦條件符合,合資經(jīng)營(yíng)公司便立即組成)。
  【EX8】公司的任何一方未經(jīng)董事會(huì)一致通過及中國(guó)主管審批部門的批準(zhǔn),不得向第三方轉(zhuǎn)讓、抵押、出售或以其他方式處理其全部或部分投資。若一方要轉(zhuǎn)讓股份,必須遵守以下規(guī)定... 句中的“轉(zhuǎn)讓”一詞多數(shù)譯者選用transfer。但用assign更正式,assign/assignment是法律英語,表示to transfer property .rights to sb in accordance with laws;而transfer/transference僅表示to hand over the possession of property ,etc.,因此,本段可譯為:
  Neither party of the Joint Venture may assign ,pledge ,sell or otherwise dispose of all or part of its investment subscribed to a third party without the unanimous approval of the Board of Directors and consent by the appropriate Chinese Government Approving Departments. In case that assignment is effected by one party ,the following stipulations must be observed...
  【EX9】如果許可方允許任何第三方在任何地方使用本專利或相應(yīng)的專利,及有關(guān)特許產(chǎn)品的生產(chǎn)、使用和銷售的許可證,而且其條件比本協(xié)議規(guī)定的條件更優(yōu)惠,許可方應(yīng)立即以書面形式將這些優(yōu)惠許可的細(xì)節(jié)通知被許可方,被許可方有接受相同優(yōu)惠條件的選擇權(quán)。
  原譯文:If the Licensor altows any other license under the Patent or their other responding patents to any third party in connection with the manufacture ,Use and sale Of the Licensed Products in any place under such conditions as are more favorable to a licensee than those provided herein, the licensor shall promptly inform the Licensee in written form of the details 0f such other license and the licensee has the choice to adopt equally favorable conditions.
  譯文中的altow(允許,許可)不如用grant正式。grant在英文合同,尤其在許可證合同中表示許可方to altow the licensee to,而altow僅表示to say that someone can do sth .inform一般指?jìng)鬟_(dá)某種信息和資料,如:He informed his staff that he was going to Spain on business(他告訴自己的職員,他要去西班牙出差);notify用在合同文體中,表示正式書面通知對(duì)方與其有關(guān)的利益,因此,句中的“通知”應(yīng)選擇notify。前面的promptly也應(yīng)更換為forthwith。句中最后的“選擇”應(yīng)選用option,專門用于表示當(dāng)事人的一種“選擇權(quán)”,尤其指offer to sb of the right to enter into a contract at a later date。例如:The Sellers have the option to deliver 5%more or less of the quantity contracted(賣方有按合同規(guī)定的數(shù)量多交或短交5%的選擇權(quán))。
  2. Words with Multi-interpretation一詞多義的處理
  在合同英語中,一詞多義或一義多詞的現(xiàn)象較為普遍。要透徹理解這些詞義,必須結(jié)合上下文,仔細(xì)推敲。以reference一詞為例,它的一般詞義是“參考”,但
  它在不同的上下文中就有不同的含義。因此,不能僅用“參考”二字“對(duì)號(hào)入座”。請(qǐng)看下例各句:
  (1)Thank you for your letter reference DT/Zi No.102.of 29th,March.
  感謝你方3月29日編號(hào)為DT/Zi,No.102的來信。
  reference在此例中指“編號(hào)” (number which makes it possible to find a document which has been filed)。
  (2)We have had only one order from ABC Co. , Ltd. , so we regret we cannot give you a reference from tong experience.
  我們僅接受ABC有限公司的一筆定貨,很遺憾我們不能提供具有長(zhǎng)期交往經(jīng)歷的資信情況。 reference在此例中指“資信情況” (statement about a company's abilities)。
  (3)Reference is made to your Sales Confirmation No.1529.
  現(xiàn)談到你方的第1529號(hào)銷售確認(rèn)書。
  reference在此例中指“談到” (mentioning or dealing with)。
  (4)The Buyers ask for credit and have given the Bank of China ,Beijing as a reference.
  買方要求記賬交易,并提出中國(guó)銀行北京分行作為資信備詢?nèi)恕?/span>
  reference在此例中指“咨信備詢?nèi)恕?person who reports on someone's character or abilities)。
  (5)The Sales Company is given the same power with reference to apportioning the commission.
  關(guān)于傭金的分配問題,應(yīng)授予銷售公司同樣的權(quán)利。
  with reference to在此例中意思為“關(guān)于”(about or concerning sb or sth)。
  (6) A reference to your records will show that we have more than once asked you to establish L/
  C against S/C No.2523.
  查閱你方記錄可以看出,我方已多次催促,要求你方對(duì)第2523號(hào)銷售確認(rèn)書開立信用證。 reference在此例中指“查閱”。
  以上只是含有reference一詞的部分詞義??梢?,如果把reference一概譯為“參考”不僅詞不達(dá)義,而且還會(huì)影響條款的效力。一詞多義的選擇和確定通常從以下幾方面著手:
  1) Considering the Part of Speech根據(jù)詞性確定詞義
  英語中有許多書寫形式相同的詞,卻有著不同的詞性,而詞性不同,意義也有所差異。因此,在翻譯時(shí)首先要斷定這個(gè)詞在原文中的詞性,根據(jù)詞性再進(jìn)一步確定其詞義。
  【EX10】(1) Arbitration of all questions in dispute under this contract shall be at the choice of either party and shall be in accordance with the International Arbitration Rules Of American Arbitration Association.
  對(duì)在合同中一切有爭(zhēng)議的問題是否付諸仲裁將由任何一方作出選擇,并須按照美國(guó)仲裁協(xié)會(huì)的國(guó)際仲裁規(guī)則進(jìn)行仲裁。
  (2) Our products are manufactured from the choice grades of material and will satisfy you in every respect.
  我方的產(chǎn)品均用上等的原料制成,因此,在各方面都會(huì)使貴方滿意。
  由于以上兩句中的choice的詞性不同,在詞義的確定上也有所不同。第一句中的choice是名詞,意思為“選擇”(act of choosing between two or more possibilities);第二句中的choice是形容詞,意思為“優(yōu)質(zhì)的”(of very good quality)。
  【EX11】(1) The prices quoted include a progressive commission ,to be calculated on FOB basis, of 2%for a single order for 10 dozen or up 3%for 30 dozen or up.
  所報(bào)價(jià)格包括累進(jìn)傭金,按FOB價(jià)為基礎(chǔ)計(jì)算,每定單在10打及以上時(shí)傭金為2%,30打及以上時(shí)為3%。
  (2) Party B is commissioned by the manufacturers to buy steel plates and this contract shall supersede all previous commitments.
  乙方受制造廠家的委托購(gòu)買鋼板,因此本合同將取代以前的一切承諾。
  以上兩句中的commission,由于詞性不同,詞義具有很大的區(qū)別。前一句中的commission在合同中經(jīng)常以名詞形式出現(xiàn),意思為“傭金”;后一句中的commission是動(dòng)詞,其意思為“委托”或“代理”。再如:The Contractor shall be responsible for and shall carry out all maintenance work during commissioning period (在試運(yùn)行期問,承包方應(yīng)負(fù)責(zé)進(jìn)行一切維修工作)。
  【EX12】(1) The time limit for inspection and claim is 60 days after discharge of the cargo at the port of destination.
  檢驗(yàn)與索賠的期限為貨物卸至目的港后60天。
  (2) Party B agrees that the expiration of this license shall not discharge party B from its obligation.
  乙方同意在許可證到期時(shí)并不免除乙方應(yīng)盡的義務(wù)。
  (3) Routine duties of the Joint Venture Company are to be discharged by the general manager appointed by the Board of Directors.
  董事會(huì)任命的總經(jīng)理,負(fù)責(zé)履行合營(yíng)公司的日常職權(quán)。
  以上三句中都含有discharge,在不同的合同條款中,其詞義也有很大不同。第一句中的discharge是名詞(也可作動(dòng)詞).詞義為:“卸貨”(untoading cargo from a ship),經(jīng)常出現(xiàn)在國(guó)際貨物買賣合同中;第二句中的discharge是動(dòng)詞,意思為“免除”(releasing one party from the terms of a contract);第三句中的discharge也是動(dòng)詞,意思為“履行”(carrying out one's duty).
  【EX13】The Contractor's Site Representative shall be present at the site throughout normal working hours except when on leave,sick, or absent for reasons connected with the proper performance of the Contract.The Contractor shall at all time keep the premises free from accumulation of waste materials or rubbish caused by the Works and at the completion of the Works shall remove all remaining materials from and about the premises and shall leave the Site and Plant safe, clean and ready for Use.
  在整個(gè)正常的工作時(shí)間內(nèi),除因假期、患病或由于正當(dāng)履行合同而缺勤等理由外,承包商的現(xiàn)場(chǎng)代表必須到現(xiàn)場(chǎng)上班。在任何時(shí)候,承包商應(yīng)始終避免因施工而使廢料或垃圾堆放在施工現(xiàn)場(chǎng),在施工結(jié)束時(shí),應(yīng)清除所有施工現(xiàn)場(chǎng)及其周圍地區(qū)存放的剩余材料,使現(xiàn)場(chǎng)和工廠保持安全、清潔,以便隨時(shí)可以使用。
  以上例句中的兩個(gè)條款中均含有l(wèi)eave一詞,其中第一款中的leave是名詞,意思為:“假期”(time absent from duty or work);第二款中的leave是動(dòng)詞,意思為:“保持”(to remain in a certain condition)。
  需要指出的是,有時(shí)同一詞類由于其形式的不同,其詞義也有所不同。
  【EX14】(1) The directors and officers of the Buyer in office on the effective date of the merger shall continue in office as the directors and officers of the Buyer for the term elected until their respective successors shall be elected.
  企業(yè)合并生效之日,買方的在職董事和在職高級(jí)職員應(yīng)繼續(xù)留任為買方的董事和高級(jí)職員,其任期保留到選舉出他們各自的繼任人為止。
  該句中的office是不可數(shù)的抽象名詞,意思為“公職、官職”(work and duties connected with a position of trust and authority)。
  (2) We hope to be able to reciprocate you r good offices on a similar occasion.
  我們希望能在類似情況下報(bào)答你方的鼎力相助。
  該句中的offices只用復(fù)數(shù)形式,表示“幫助”,經(jīng)常使用的短語有through sb's good offices(承某人的鼎力相助)。
  【EX15】(1) If the vessel had arrived at the toading port within the Confirmed Dates. the toading operation could be carried out now.
  如果船只在確認(rèn)日期內(nèi)已到達(dá)裝貨港,現(xiàn)在就能夠進(jìn)行裝貨作業(yè)。
  句中的operation是單數(shù)形式,一般表示“操作,作業(yè)”或“經(jīng)營(yíng)”。又如:These first stockholders shall organize and elect a Board of Directors and thereafter, such Board of Directors shall control the operation of the new corporation(應(yīng)由首批股東組織選出董事會(huì),然后,由這一董事會(huì)控制這家公司的經(jīng)營(yíng))。
  (2) We welcome any suggestions you may offer for our business operations.
  貴方對(duì)我方業(yè)務(wù)活動(dòng)所提出的任何建議,我方都表示歡迎。
  句中的operations常用復(fù)數(shù)形式,表示“一種有計(jì)劃的業(yè)務(wù)活動(dòng)”。
  2) Considering the Profession根據(jù)專業(yè)來確定詞義
  合同英語中會(huì)涉及各類不同的專業(yè)。專業(yè)不同,某些詞語的詞義也就相應(yīng)地需要調(diào)整。
  【EX16】(1)The invoice shall be subject to the usual trade discounts altowed by the Consignor.
  發(fā)票須按照發(fā)貨人所給予的通常批發(fā)折扣開立。
  句中的discount意思為“折扣”(amount of money taken off the cost of sth),是商業(yè)貿(mào)易中常用的詞匯。對(duì)某一價(jià)格打折扣,可接用of或on。
  例如:We are prepared to grant you a discount of 5%on the price(我方準(zhǔn)備給予你方5%的價(jià)格折扣)。
  (2)The Buyer shall todge a 90-day note in Bank of China, Taiyuan Branch for discount.
  買方將把一張90天的期票提交中國(guó)銀行太原分行貼現(xiàn)。
  句中的discount意思為“貼現(xiàn)”(the amount of money deducted from the face value of a note),是銀行業(yè)務(wù)中常用的詞匯。
  【EX17】(1) Our end-users consider the Voltmeter to be unfit from application and claim that the instrument be replaced by you with a sound one.
  我方用戶認(rèn)為該電量計(jì)不適于使用,要求你方用一只好的替換。
  句中的instrument在機(jī)械設(shè)備中,指“儀器”。
  (2) The board of directors may authorize any agent or agents to enter into any Contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation.
  董事會(huì)可授權(quán)任何代理人以公司名義并代表公司簽訂合同或簽發(fā)單據(jù)。
  該句中的instrument在商業(yè)上多表示“正式的單據(jù)或文件”(formal document)。又如:The attorney is authorized to make, sign and deliver any other instrument, whether sealed or unsealed(律師有權(quán)撰寫、簽署和發(fā)送任何其他密封或開封的文件)。
  (3) A party to an instrument may authorize an agent to endorse the instrument but must specify the principal-agent relationship on the instrument.
  票據(jù)當(dāng)事人可以委托其代理人在票據(jù)上簽章,但應(yīng)當(dāng)在票據(jù)上注明其代理關(guān)系。
  該句中instrument在結(jié)算業(yè)務(wù)中表示票據(jù)的總稱。比如:《中華人民共和國(guó)票據(jù)法》規(guī)定“本法所稱的票據(jù),是指匯票,本票和支票”,英譯為:The term “negotiable instrument ”as used in this law denotes “bill of exchange”, “promissory note'’ and “Cheque"。
  【EX18】(1) The Ocean freight and transfer charges from the interior points to the port of shipment shall be paid by Buyer.
  該項(xiàng)海運(yùn)費(fèi)及從內(nèi)地發(fā)貨點(diǎn)至裝船口岸的中轉(zhuǎn)費(fèi)均須由買方支付。
  該句中的freight在國(guó)際貿(mào)易中常指“運(yùn)費(fèi)” (money charged for carrying goods)。
  (2)This freight must be carefully handled when toading.貨物裝載時(shí)必須小心搬運(yùn)。
  該句中的freight在國(guó)內(nèi)運(yùn)輸中一般指“貨物”(cargo or goods which are carried by land or sea or air),不指“運(yùn)費(fèi)”。
  【EX19】(1) The premium rates vary with differed interests insured and with different destinations. routes and carrying periods of insurance.
  保險(xiǎn)費(fèi)率隨保險(xiǎn)貨物的不同而變化,也隨目的地、航線和保險(xiǎn)責(zé)任有效期的不同而變化。句中的interest在保險(xiǎn)業(yè)務(wù)中指“被保險(xiǎn)的貨物”。
  (2)If the Buyer fails to pay any amount when due, the Buyer shall be liable to pay to the Seller overdue interest on such unpaid amount from the due date until the actual date of payment at the rate of five percent per annum. Such overdue interest shall be paid upon demand of the Seller.
  若買方未能按期支付到期款項(xiàng),則買方應(yīng)支付賣方從到期之日起算至實(shí)際支付之日止的年利率為5%的利息。一經(jīng)賣方提出,買方應(yīng)支付該過期利息。
  此句中的interest在國(guó)際支付業(yè)務(wù)中,表示一方由于未能支付到期應(yīng)付的款項(xiàng),而向另一方支付的利息。
  3) Considering the Coltocation根據(jù)詞的搭配關(guān)系確定詞義
  搭配關(guān)系,是指一個(gè)詞與另一個(gè)詞連用而產(chǎn)生意義上的聯(lián)系。一個(gè)詞單獨(dú)存在時(shí)是一個(gè)意思,但與其他詞搭配使用就可能產(chǎn)生出各種不同的詞義。因此,在確定和選擇詞義時(shí),還必須考慮詞與詞的搭配關(guān)系。
  【EX20】(1)In case of any request by either party, the party having possession of the desired records may deliver the appropriate records to the requesting party.
  如遇任何一方提出要求,擁有所需記錄資料的一方可將合適的記錄遞交給提出要求的一方。 句中含有case的介詞短語in case of,其含義為“假使,如果”,引出狀語。
  (2)The price difference should in no case be as big as USD25 per metric ton.
  任何情況下,價(jià)格的差額不會(huì)達(dá)到每公噸25美元。
  句中含有case的介詞短語in no case,意思為“決不”,具有副詞性質(zhì),用作狀語。
  (3)In the case of an order for more than 6000 pieces, Party B altows a special discount of 6 per cent.
  至于數(shù)量在6000件以上的定單,乙方愿給予6%的特別折扣。
  該句中的in the case of與第一句的in case of只有一個(gè)定冠詞之別,但其意思卻有很大區(qū)別,前者意思為“至于,就...來說”,而后者的意思是“假如”。
  【EX21】(1)Upon the arrival 0f the goods at the place of delivery the Buyers claim an altowance of USD 350 on account of inferior quality.
  貨物運(yùn)抵交付地點(diǎn)后,由于貨物質(zhì)量不佳,買方要求索賠350美元。
  句中的altowance與動(dòng)詞claim搭配,意思為“賠償費(fèi)”。
  (2) Both Party A and Party B shall make a liberal altowance for such unforeseen circumstances arising during transit.
  甲、乙雙方應(yīng)充分考慮到運(yùn)輸中所發(fā)生的意外情況。
  句中的altowance在make altowance for結(jié)構(gòu)中表示:在做某種決定時(shí),“考慮到某事物”(to consider sth when making a decision)。
  【EX22】The part of the contract price shall be paid in USD by way of an irrevocable Letter of Credit against presentation by Contractor to the negotiable bank.
  合同價(jià)格要根據(jù)承包人要求,在議付銀行以不可撤銷的信用證方式用美元支付。
  句中的negotiable作為形容詞在修飾bank時(shí),譯成“議付”。形容詞negotiable就其本身而言意思為:“可談判的”,但是在修飾不同的名詞時(shí)其含義也就不同。試比較:negotiable amount(可議付的金額),negotiable bill of lading(可過戶證券),negotiable certificate of deposit(流通存單)等。
  【EX23】(1)All activities of the joint venture company shall be governed by the law, decrees and pertinent rules and regulations of the People's Republic of China.
  合營(yíng)公司的一切活動(dòng),必須遵守中華人民共和國(guó)的法律、法令和有關(guān)條例及規(guī)定。
  句中g(shù)overn作為及物動(dòng)詞,其本意為“統(tǒng)治、治理、支配”,如In Britain the Queen reigns but elected representatives of the people govern the country(在英國(guó),女王是君主,而治理國(guó)家的卻是民選的代表)。而本句中的govern的賓語是all activities of the joint venture company,其后的by引出的又是有關(guān)的law和decrees,因此,根據(jù)其搭配關(guān)系,句子中的govern 應(yīng)理解為“遵守”。
  (2) The Surviving Corporation shall continue to be governed by the laws of the People's Republic of China.
  該續(xù)存下來的公司仍將由中華人民共和國(guó)法律管轄。
  該句中g(shù)overn的賓語是corporation,兩詞搭配,譯成被動(dòng)句“由...管轄”。
  【EX24】The carder's responsibility for the cargo ceases immediately when the cargo leaves the ship's tackle and thereafter all risks and expenses involved are the responsibility of the cargo.
  當(dāng)貨物離開輪船掛鉤時(shí),承運(yùn)人的責(zé)任即行終止,此后一切風(fēng)險(xiǎn)及費(fèi)用一概由貨主負(fù)責(zé)。該句的cargo出現(xiàn)了三次,其中前兩個(gè)根據(jù)其搭配關(guān)系均可理解為:a toad of goods carried in a ship or aircraft(用船或飛機(jī)運(yùn)載的貨物);但第三個(gè)cargo用of引出,修飾responsibility,而且句子的主語為risks and expenses,因此,根據(jù)該詞與句中其他詞的搭配關(guān)系,應(yīng)理解為“貨主”。
  3. Easily-confused Words易混淆的詞
  英文合同中還有一些易混淆的詞,這些詞中有的書寫雖基本相同,內(nèi)容卻有很大區(qū)別;有的1) Attention to Meaning注意書寫基本近似,但意義不同的詞
  英文中有許多詞在書寫上基本上相似,但在內(nèi)容上有很大的區(qū)別,特別是一些短語,更換一個(gè)介詞或添加一個(gè)冠詞,其內(nèi)容就會(huì)有很大的區(qū)別。這些詞或短語一定要引起譯者的足夠重視。
  【EX25】(1) The Party B shall request his bankers to open an Irrevocable letter of credit in Party A's favour upon receipt of Party A's Confirmation of this order.
  一但收到甲方關(guān)于此項(xiàng)訂貨的確認(rèn)后,乙方便要求其銀行開立以甲方為受益人的信用證。 句中的短語in one's favour意思為“以...為受益人”。
  (2)Our goods that we offer you are much in favour on the European Continent.
  我方向你方報(bào)盤的貨物,在歐洲大陸頗受好評(píng)。
  該句中的in favour與上句的in one's favour只相差一個(gè)名詞所有格形式或形容詞性物主代詞,但意義卻大不相同。in favour在本句中的意思是“受賞識(shí),受好評(píng)”。
  【EX26】(1) The Foreign Party shall furnish to the Joint Venture Company all the technical data necessary to ensure the effective operation of the machinery.
  外方必須向合資公司提供一切必要的技術(shù)數(shù)據(jù),以保證機(jī)械設(shè)備的正常運(yùn)行。
  句中的動(dòng)詞ensure意思為“保證,擔(dān)保”,其書寫與insure只相差一個(gè)字母,但意義卻完全不同。又如:
  (2) The Seller have insured the goods FPA and against War Risk at the rate of 0.5%for the sum of USD 36,000 with the Insurance company.
  賣方已為該貨物向保險(xiǎn)公司投保平安險(xiǎn)和戰(zhàn)爭(zhēng)險(xiǎn),費(fèi)率0.5%,投保額為36,000美元。 該句中的insure表示to make a contract that promises to pay sb an amount of money in case of accident,injury,death or damage or toss of sth。
  【EX27】(1) Up to now we have not heard anything from them about the order in question.
  到目前為止,我方仍未接到他們關(guān)于該定貨的任何消息。
  句中的in question意思為“正在被談起的”,經(jīng)常譯成“該”,如:the Contract in question(該合同)。
  (2)It is obviously out of question to effect the shipment in June.很明顯,6月份交貨不成問題。
  句中的out of question意思為: “毫無疑問”或“沒有問題”。
  (3)The prices shown in price-lists and catatogues shall be deemed to be the rock-bottom prices and any further reductions is out of the question.
  價(jià)目單和商品目錄中標(biāo)明的價(jià)格,應(yīng)視為最低價(jià)格,不會(huì)再次減價(jià)。
  該句中的out of the question與上句中的out of question只相差一個(gè)定冠詞,但其意義卻完全相反。前者表示impossible,而后者卻表示no problem。
  【EX28】(1) The Borrower agrees to transfer to the lender the right to accept and substitute other assigned accounts subsequent to this date, in lieu of accounts this day assigned.
  借款人同意向出借人轉(zhuǎn)讓收取和兌取自即日起的以后各項(xiàng)應(yīng)收賬款的權(quán)利,用以取代今天的各項(xiàng)應(yīng)收賬款。
  句中的lieu意思為“代替”,如:accept a cheque in lieu of cash(接受支票替代現(xiàn)金)。
  (2) Machinery shall become the sole property of the Joint Venture Company, free and clear of all liens, charges and claims of any kind whatsoever.
  機(jī)械設(shè)備應(yīng)成為合資公司的獨(dú)占財(cái)產(chǎn),不存在任何留置權(quán),不存在任何費(fèi)用,索賠等情況。該句中的lien與上句中的lieu書寫非常近似,但lien的意思為right to keep sb's property until a debt owed in connection with it,法律上稱“留置權(quán)”,屬擔(dān)保方式的一種。
  2) Attention to the Relation注意同一概念、但表達(dá)不同權(quán)利義務(wù)關(guān)系的詞
  合同英語中的某些單詞,單獨(dú)地看,其概念是一致的。但在條款的具體應(yīng)用中,其表現(xiàn)的權(quán)利義務(wù)關(guān)系和用詞的規(guī)范與否是不同的。
  【EX29】(1) The Contract Price set forth in this Contract shall not include any withholding tariff and any charges imposed on the contractor by the government in New Zealand.
  原譯文:在合同中規(guī)定的合同價(jià)格,不應(yīng)包括新西蘭政府向承包人征收的扣交稅金和任何費(fèi)用。該譯文中的“稅金”應(yīng)改為“關(guān)稅”。tariff在表示“稅”時(shí),主要用于“關(guān)稅”,即:a schedule or system of duties imposed by a government on goods imported or exported at the rate of duty imposed in tariff.
  (2) The China Corporation shall bear all relevant taxes and levies imposed upon the personnel by the Chinese Government, whereas the Emptoyer shall bear the same imposed upon the personnel by the Government of the Project-host Country.
  中國(guó)公司應(yīng)負(fù)責(zé)交納中國(guó)政府對(duì)人員所征收的一切稅金;雇主應(yīng)負(fù)責(zé)交納項(xiàng)目所在國(guó)政府對(duì)人員所征繳的一切稅金。
  該句中出現(xiàn)了兩個(gè)有關(guān)“稅金”的單詞,即taxes and levies。其中tax在表示“稅”時(shí),主要強(qiáng)調(diào):money taken compulsorily by the government or by an official body to pay for government services; levy作為名詞,主要表示一種“征稅”的行為,即:money which is demanded and collected by the government or by an agency or by an official body。因此,句中的taxes and levies合在一起可理解為:(中國(guó)政府所征收的)“一切稅金”。
  (3)The prices quoted above do not include any taxes. duties, impost and any other charges of any kind which may be levied in China.
  以上所指的價(jià)格并不包括在中國(guó)境內(nèi)所征收的各種稅款、關(guān)稅、進(jìn)口稅以及其他各種費(fèi)用。該句中除taxes外,還出現(xiàn)兩個(gè)表示“稅”的單詞,即duty 和impost。其中duty主要強(qiáng)調(diào)the tax imposed by a government on merchandise imported from another country,可理解為“關(guān)稅”。但duty在表示“關(guān)稅”時(shí)與tariff是有本質(zhì)區(qū)別的,前者主要表示tax to be paid for importing,而后者除表示tax to be paid for importing外,還可以表示tax to be paid for exporting,所以,在翻譯duty時(shí),一般應(yīng)結(jié)合上下文寫成:“在某國(guó)內(nèi)所征收的關(guān)稅”;句中出現(xiàn)的另一個(gè)表示“稅”的單詞是impost,這個(gè)詞純粹表示“進(jìn)口稅”,但不一定是通過海關(guān)所征的稅。
  【EX30】(1)合資各方的責(zé)任:
  甲方責(zé)任:
  1.辦理為設(shè)立合資公司向中國(guó)有關(guān)主管部門申請(qǐng)批準(zhǔn),登記注冊(cè),領(lǐng)取營(yíng)業(yè)執(zhí)照等事宜;
  乙方責(zé)任:
  1.辦理合資企業(yè)委托在中國(guó)境外選購(gòu)機(jī)械設(shè)備等有關(guān)的事宜:
  (1) Responsibilities of Each Party to the Joint Venture
  Responsibility Of Party A:
  1.Handling of approval, registration business license and other matters concerning the establishment of the Joint Venture Company from the relevant departments in charge in China.
  Responsibility Of Party B:
  1. Handling the matters entrusted by the Joint Venture Company, such as selecting and purchasing machinery and equipment outside China, etc.
  英譯該條款時(shí),應(yīng)首先確定和選擇“責(zé)任”一詞的英語表述。合同英語中經(jīng)常出現(xiàn)的兩個(gè)表示“責(zé)任”的單詞,一個(gè)為liability,另一個(gè)為responsibility。這是兩個(gè)極易混淆的詞匯, 在表達(dá)當(dāng)事人的責(zé)任時(shí)是共同的,但涉及到具體的權(quán)利義務(wù)時(shí),兩詞是有嚴(yán)格區(qū)別的。 liability在表示責(zé)任時(shí),主要強(qiáng)調(diào)兩個(gè)方面:一方面指“賠償責(zé)任”(being legally responsible for paying or damage or toss),如:The underwriters refused to take any liability for the tosses(承包人對(duì)損失拒絕承擔(dān)責(zé)任);另一方面指“債務(wù)責(zé)任’(一般用復(fù)數(shù)形式liabilities),如:The Seller shall refund to the Buyer such amounts after paying all tax liabilities(在付清一切稅款后,賣方須向買方償還這些款項(xiàng))。因此,“有限責(zé)任公司”常被譯成limited liability company,表示a company where a member is responsible for repaying the company’s debts only up to the face value of the shares he owns.
  responsibility在表示“責(zé)任”時(shí),著重強(qiáng)調(diào)“職責(zé)、義務(wù)”(commitment or duty for which a party is responsible),如:The licensee shall assume full responsibility for the payment of all royalties(對(duì)于一切專利權(quán)使用費(fèi)的支付事宜,許可證受讓方應(yīng)承擔(dān)完全責(zé)任)。
  由上面的分析和比較可見,以上句子中的“責(zé)任”顯然是合同各方應(yīng)履行的職責(zé)和義務(wù)。因
  此,應(yīng)譯為responsibility。
  (2)任何一方當(dāng)事人違反合同的賠償責(zé)任,應(yīng)相當(dāng)于另一方因此所受到的損失,但不得超過違反合同的一方訂立合同時(shí)應(yīng)當(dāng)預(yù)見到的因違反合同可能造成的損失。
  The liability of a party to pay compensation for the breach of a contract shall be equal to the toss suffered by the other party as a consequence of the breach. However, such compensation may not exceed the toss, which the party responsible for the breach ought to have foreseen at the time of the conclusion of the contract as a possible consequence of a breach of contract.
  該句中的“責(zé)任”明顯是一種being legally responsible for paying toss,所以選擇liability是合適的。

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