中式英语之鉴

cchis

The Awkward English in Chinese Practice Part 2 continues to delve deep into the common pitfalls and challenges Chinese English learners face, offering insightful analysis and practical solutions to refine English writing. This book is not merely a guide to grammar correction but a comprehensive manual that addresses the root causes of “Chinglish,” equipping readers with strategies to produce more natural and idiomatic English.​
One of the book’s central themes is the tendency of Chinese writers to translate word-for-word from Chinese into English, resulting in convoluted and unnatural expressions. For instance, phrases like “make great efforts to” instead of the more concise “try hard to” or “strengthen the building of” rather than “strengthen” are prevalent in Chinglish. The author emphasizes that English favors simplicity and directness. By eliminating redundant words and using more idiomatic phrases, writers can significantly improve the clarity and readability of their English texts. This concept is illustrated through numerous examples, demonstrating how a few well-chosen edits can transform a clumsy sentence into a crisp, clear one.​
Another crucial aspect covered in the book is the misuse of abstract nouns. Chinese often rely on abstract concepts and general terms, which, when translated into English, can lead to vague and ambiguous statements. The book encourages writers to use more concrete and specific language. For example, instead of saying “promote the development of,” it is better to specify what exactly is being developed, such as “promote economic development” or “boost industrial growth.” This approach not only makes the writing more precise but also easier for English speakers to understand.​
The book also devotes significant space to discussing the differences in sentence structure between Chinese and English. Chinese sentences tend to be more flexible in terms of word order and often rely on context for meaning, while English requires a more rigid and logical structure. By analyzing various sentence patterns and their correct English counterparts, the author helps readers develop an intuitive sense of proper English sentence construction. This is particularly important for writing longer texts, where maintaining a clear and consistent structure is key to conveying ideas effectively.​
Moreover, The Awkward English in Chinese Practice Part 2 provides valuable tips on proofreading and self-editing. It encourages writers to read their work aloud, which can help identify awkward phrases and unclear expressions. Additionally, the book suggests comparing one’s writing with well-written English texts to learn from native speakers’ writing styles and usage. These practical techniques, combined with the theoretical insights presented in the book, offer a holistic approach to improving English writing skills.​
In conclusion, The Awkward English in Chinese Practice Part 2 is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their English writing. It not only points out common mistakes but also provides actionable advice on how to correct them. By understanding and applying the principles outlined in this book, Chinese English learners can bridge the gap between Chinglish and proficient English writing, producing texts that are both accurate and engaging.​