The Noun Plague and Sentence Structure

Winky

Reader: Winky
Time: 1hrs
Summary:
Chapter 2 of *The Translator’s Guide to Chinglish* by Joan Pinkham delves into the structural issues of "Chinglish," focusing on the overuse of abstract nouns (termed the "Noun Plague") and the misplacement of phrases and clauses that obscure meaning. The chapter emphasizes the need for clarity and logical flow in English sentences, contrasting with Chinese syntactic habits that often prioritize explicitness over conciseness .
Reflection：
Chapter 2 reveals a deeper tension between linguistic precision and cultural expression. While the "Noun Plague" and structural misalignments stem from Chinese rhetorical traditions, they hinder effective cross-cultural communication.  
Chinese rhetoric often values holistic expression (e.g., parallelism, four-character idioms), whereas English prioritizes linear logic. This clash underscores the need for translators to mediate not just language but cultural logic .  
Pinkham’s work aligns with Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style: "Vigorous writing is concise." Yet, it also raises questions about linguistic imperialism—should "Chinglish" be eradicated, or can it evolve into a legitimate variant?
Evaluation：
In conclusion, Chapter 2 serves as a bridge between syntax and culture. By addressing structural redundancies and repositioning clauses, translators can transform "Chinglish" into clear, idiomatic English while respecting the richness of Chinese expression.