Abstract

Since the implementation of the policy of reforming and opening up to the outside world, more and more foreigners have come to visit China. Therefore, at such a critical moment of demonstrating and promoting Chinese culture, the ubiquitous mistranslations of tourism public signs are intolerable. Suzhou, as an outstanding tourist city with profound culture, is a good example for us to study and try to solve the problem. It will not only provide Suzhou with better development, but also help China build a better international image. By analyzing specific examples in Suzhou, this paper aims to conclude the problems in C-E translations of public signs in scenic spots and provide pertinent solutions to them respectively.

Key words: Suzhou; public signs; translation-; scenic spots 

CONTENTS

中文摘要

Abstract

I Introduction-1

1.1 Purpose of the Study-1

1.2 Significance of the Study-1

1.3 Structure of the Paper-1

II Public Signs-2

2.1 Definition of Public Signs-2

2.2 Functions of Public Signs-2

2.3 Features of Chinese Public Signs in Scenic Spots-3

2.3.1 Using Ornate and Exaggerated Words-3

2.3.2 Insignificant and Repeated Content-4

2.3.3 Rich Cultural Connotation-4

III C-E Mistranslation of Public Signs in Suzhou Scenic Spots-4

3.1 Spelling and Format Errors-4

3.2 Grammar Errors-5

3.3 Chinglish-6

3.4 Improper Use of Words-6

3.5 Word Redundancy-7

3.6 Overuse of Pinyin-7

IV Suggested Strategies-8

4.1 Strengthening the Government’s Supervision-8

4.2 Adopting the Suitable Way of Translation—— Literal or Liberal Translation-9

4.3 Adding Explanation-9

4.4 Borrowing Existing Phrases-10

V Conclusion-10