ReadingTask7

Azi

Reader: 英语2301石希羽
Reading Time: 2025.4.29
Reading Task: unnecessary repetition
The text discusses the principle of avoiding unnecessary repetition in English usage, particularly focusing on issues arising from Chinglish (Chinese-influenced English). It emphasizes that redundant expressions, whether in individual words, phrases, or clauses, waste the reader's time and disrupt the flow of ideas. The principle, termed "the maxim against redundancy" by Wilson Follett, is supported by authorities like Robert Graves and Alan Hodge, who condemn needless repetition as a sign of poor oratory or feeble-mindedness.
The text provides examples of redundant expressions from American bankers, politicians, and even journalists, highlighting how even educated native speakers can fall into the trap of repetition. It then categorizes three common forms of repetition in Chinglish:
Simple Restatement: Presenting the same idea twice in different words (e.g., "we must arrive at the station on time and be punctual").
Self-evident Statement: One part of the sentence is implicit in the other, making one element obvious (e.g., "By renovating and expanding a number of chemical fertilizer plants, we shall increase the output of standard fertilizer... Meanwhile, to increase soil fertility, we should promote widespread scientific application of fertilizer").
Mirror-image Statement: Stating the same idea first in positive form, then in negative (e.g., "We should pay close attention to the formulation of annual plans and not neglect it").
The text suggests four strategies for dealing with repetition in translations:
Finding Further (or Different) Meaning: Re-examining the original Chinese to uncover additional or distinct meanings that eliminate redundancy.
Deleting the Redundant Words: Omitting one of the repetitive elements or replacing both with a new expression.
Changing the Wording: Adjusting the language to make the repetition less obvious, considering the text's nature and intended audience.
Letting the Repetition Stand: Retaining the repetition if it provides needed emphasis or reflects the writer's characteristic style, though this is generally discouraged if the repetition serves no useful purpose.
The text is clear, concise, and well-organized. It uses numerous examples to illustrate points, making complex concepts accessible. The tone is authoritative yet approachable, balancing academic rigor with practical advice.
Theme: The central theme is the importance of avoiding redundancy in English, particularly in translations from Chinese. The text effectively argues that unnecessary repetition not only wastes the reader's time but also undermines the text's credibility.
The text demonstrates a deep understanding of both English and Chinese linguistic structures, as well as the challenges faced by translators. It provides practical solutions to a common problem, encouraging translators to think critically about their work and strive for clarity and precision.
The text is a valuable resource for translators, editors, and anyone interested in improving their English writing skills. It offers a nuanced approach to dealing with redundancy, balancing theoretical insights with practical strategies. The text's emphasis on the importance of context, audience, and purpose in determining the appropriateness of repetition is particularly commendable.