第一篇:略論國際商務合同的翻譯
略論國際商務合同的翻譯
Brief Discussion of the Translation of International Business Contracts 外國語學院09級英語2班:蔣文利
20093363 摘要:在國際經濟貿易活動中,商務合同是一種重要的法律文件依據,商貿英語已成為必不可少的語言交際工具,它也是英文經濟貿易合同的基點。越來越多的英語和法律的愛好者也希望能盡快熟悉合同英語,從而準確理解,翻譯、制作英語合同。這種需求隨著中國加入WTO(世界貿易組織)而劇增,用英語解決商務合同問題的愿望也會隨之越來越迫切。國際商務合同的種類繁多,涉及面廣,內容復雜。這類合同都是涉外交易性質,需要英漢兩種版本,因此大多需要翻譯。商務合同有其自身的特點,即條理性、規范性和專業性。商務合同對翻譯的質量提出很高的要求,也增加了其難度。本文用大量的例句,對商務合同英語的準確性、嚴謹性、規范性及翻譯技巧與內容的完善還有翻譯中常見錯誤、成因及其對策等作了全面分析和論述,并分析其翻譯方面所應注意的問題。
Abstract: In the activities of international business trade, business contract has become an important legal document.Nowadays, business English has become not only a necessary tool for communication, but also the base of English business contracts.More and more English-learners and law-majors hope they can know something about English business contracts so as to understand them correctly, translate them exactly and make them perfectly.China?s entering the WTO enhances their desire to use English to solve the problems of business contracts.There are many different kinds of international business contracts, whose contents are diversified and complicated.In international trade, translation is compulsory since contracts usually need two versions: English and Chinese.The international business contract has its own characters, such as proper arrangement, standardization and specialty.All these make the translation of them very difficult and thus demand good skills to ensure a high quality.This article analyzes the preciseness, strictness and standardization of business contracts and explores the skills of translating them by citing many examples.It also points out some common translation errors, the reasons and the methods to correct the errors.Finally some advice is given to call readers attention to the problems in translation.關鍵詞:國際商務合同;翻譯;原則
Key words:International business contract;Translation;Principle
一、引言:在世界經濟闊步邁向21世紀的今天,國際經濟貿易活動日益頻繁 自中國加入WTO,用英語解決商務合同問題的愿望也會隨之越來越迫切。合同,也叫契約。“契”,即意思相投或相合,“約”是用語言或文字互定共守的條件。合同的意思是愿意訂立共同遵守的條件、合作共事。“商務合同(business contract)是自然人或法人之間為實現一定的商務目的,按一定的合法手續達成的規定相互權利和義務的契約,它對簽約各方都具有法律約束力。”正因為合同具有法律效用,合同雙方都必須嚴格按照合同的約定,全面履行自己的義務,這就需要合同的文字斟詞.多種貿易方酌句,力求準確無誤。譯應遵循忠實、準確、統一的原則,即表達要忠實原文,用詞要準確,整個譯文要融為一體。因此,商務合同的翻譯原則應遵守把忠實原義放在首位;譯文應符合目標語體裁和格式;選詞應準確無誤,以免誤解,產生歧義;注意專業術語和公文語言的慣用法;還有在翻譯方法上,主要采取直譯加調整的方法本文擬從文體角度提出:合同英漢翻譯時,應做到譯文準確、嚴謹和規范。
二 商務合同的翻譯
(一)翻譯的原則和要點
商務合同是一種特殊的應用文體,重在記實,用詞行文的一大特點就是準確與嚴謹。由于商務合同又是具備法律效應的文件,它要嚴格規定合同雙方的義務、權力、行為準則等明確條款,所以“絲毫不能允許語義的模棱兩可而使人誤解,被人鉆了法律的空子,它寧可犧牲文字流暢也要保持文意斬釘截鐵的確鑿性”。“首先要注意公文的格式,原則上原文的體例應當保留,因為這些格式是一種語體(語域)標識,自有其形式意義。此外,要正確把握詞義,尤其要認清一些common words 在公文中的特定含義。在措辭上,還要注意詞語的正式程度及專業術語和公文習用語的使用。” 而劉法公也強調:商貿翻譯應遵循忠實、準確、統一的原則,即表達要忠實原文,用詞要準確,整個譯文要融為一體。因此,商務合同 2 的翻譯原則應遵守把忠實原義放在首位;譯文應符合目標語體裁和格式;選詞應準確無誤,以免誤解,產生歧義;注意專業術語和公文語言的慣用法;還有在翻譯方法上,主要采取直譯加調整的方法。只有基于以上這些原則才能出色地完成工作,更好地服務于社會經濟的發展。
1、譯文準確
譯文準確是指合同譯文表達清楚、明晰,詞義確切。“判斷譯文正確與否的基本標準和是? 3C ?(Correctness, Completeness,concreteness)即正確性、完整性、具體性。”而英文商業合同的用詞特征之一是頻繁使用專業詞匯、縮略詞及情態動詞等。因此,合同英漢翻譯時,應對這些詞有深刻地理解,把握其確切的含義,絲毫不能有模棱兩可、含糊不清的地方,否則會引起合同一方的曲解,甚至會導致雙方的經濟糾紛。請看合同專業詞匯、縮略詞及情態動詞的英漢翻譯: 1.1 專業詞匯
合同中會涉及到許多專業術語,這些詞在合同中都有單
一、明確的含義,不能理解為普通、常用的意思,如collection, confirm,acceptance, tolerance, more or less, 這些詞通常分別理解為“收集”,“確認”,“接受”,“承受”,“大約”;而在合同中這些詞可用作術語,其含義則分別為“托收”,“保兌”(confirmed L/ C),“承兌”(Documents against Acceptance),“公差”及“溢短裝”等。請
看下面例句:The ① Seller shall present the following documents required for negotiation/ collection to the banks.這是支付條件中經常出現的句子,句中negotiation 和collection 是專業術語,如果理解為“談判”和“收取”等常用 意思,譯文則會含糊不清,令人費解。而此處的意思應為“議付”和“托收”。句子可譯為:賣方必須將下列單據提交銀行議付或托收。② Partial shipment is allowed.這是合同中有關貨物裝運的規定,如果把partial shipment 譯為“部分裝運”,此條款則會出現明顯的漏洞,合同一方可理解為只需部分發貨,其余不裝運亦可。而準確的譯文則為“允許分批裝運”,即賣方可以幾次發貨。1.2 縮略詞
英文商業合同中經常會使用縮略詞,如FOB, W.A, D/A, D/ P 等等,與專業詞匯一 樣,縮略詞也有明確的含義,不能憑主觀意測,譯文必須完整、準確地表達該詞 3
所代表的意思,例如:① US.500 per metric ton CIFC2%Ningbo.CIFC2% 是縮略詞,表示CIFincluding 2% commission。譯文:寧波港全額到岸價每噸500 美元,含2 % 傭金。② CN.500.00 per case FOBD1% Shanghai.CN.表示Chinese yuan,FOBD1%表示less1% discount。譯文:上海港離岸價每箱500元人民幣,扣除1% 折扣。1.3 情態動詞
英文商業合同中經常會出現情態動詞shall,把握該詞的確切含義,必須理解其用法上的特殊性。Shall 在合同等法律文書中是一個法律詞匯,相當于漢語中“應當”或“須”,表示法律責任或義務,而不是一般的道義責任。同樣,其否定式表達則相當于漢語中的“不得”,不能理解為“不應該”或“不能”。請看下面例句中Shall 的不同譯法:The L/ C shall reach the seller 30 days before the shipment.譯文1:信用證將在裝船前30天到達賣方。譯文2:信用證應該在裝船前30天到達賣方。譯文3:信用證須在裝船前30天到達賣方。譯文1 把shall 當作“將來”理解,完全是誤譯;譯文2 則把shall 理解為一般道義責任,沒有顯示合同的嚴肅性;因此譯文1、2 容易使合同一方憑借文字的模糊性逃避責任譯文3 準確表達了shall 的含義,強調了買方應履行的義務,體現了合同是一種契約性很強的法律文書。
2、譯文嚴謹
翻譯中的嚴謹既是翻譯實踐的原則問題,又是一個作風問題。這在商務合同翻譯中尤為重要。合同中使用的語言屬法律語言范疇,強調語言結構、措辭的嚴密。英文合同中用詞的另一個特點是使用正式詞語,古體詞語、重復詞語、并列連接詞及表示時間的并列介詞等,以確保合同文字的嚴密性,無懈可擊,體現合同這種法律性文書的莊重和嚴肅。譯文的嚴謹性主要體現在其用詞的嚴密性和句子構的嚴謹性兩個方面: 2.1 用詞嚴密
合同是一種契約性很強的法律文書,其文字力求規范、準確、明晰和嚴密,以避免因文字的不確定性和模糊性所引起的合同糾紛。因此翻譯時,不能采用普通的譯法,必須考慮到合同的專業性和嚴謹性。請看合同中有關表示時間、金額用語的英漢翻譯:
2.1.1 時間的英漢翻譯
合同中的裝船,支付等條款對時間的要求十分嚴格,因此,譯文中的有關時間的規定必須與原文吻合,否則合同一方會利用時間上的漏洞有意拖延交貨或貨款的支付。請看例句:
1、Payment: By irrevocable L/ C at sight to reach the sellers 30 days before the time of shipment.The L/ C shall be valid for negotiation in China until the 15th day after the date of shipment.譯文1:付款:不可撤銷的即期信用證裝船前30天開到賣方,裝船后第15天前信用證在中國議付有效。譯文2:支付:買方應當在裝船前30天將不可撤銷的即期信用證開到賣方。信用證在中國議付的有效期至裝船后的第15天。這是外貿合同有關支付的條款,涉及到信用證開到賣方的時間以及信用證議付的時間,這兩個時間都有明確的規定,時間介詞before, after 及until 起限定作用。顯然譯文1 是普通譯法,文字不夠嚴密,而且易使信用證支付的時間產生歧義。“第15天前”可理解為“不含第15天”。譯文2 則充分考慮到合同文字的嚴密性,體現了原文用詞的風格和含義。
2、Shipment: To be shipped on or before Feb.28, 1998譯文1:裝船:1998 年2 月28 日前裝船。譯文2:裝船:1998 年2 月28 日前(含28日)裝船。這是有關裝船的條款,因對裝船對間的理解不一,往往會使交貨延誤,因此當事人對合同中裝船的時間特別重視,句中并列介詞on or before 對裝船時間作出明確無誤的規定。而譯文1 則會導致合同一方的曲解,對時間的規定不夠嚴密。2.1.2 金額的英漢翻譯
金額詞的英漢翻譯合約中的最重要方面是有關支付款項的規定,這也是合同當事人最為關心的。為杜絕漏洞,合同金額英譯時,必須同時大小寫,不能隨意省略請看例句:Total value: US.5, 200, 000.00(Say:USDollars Five Million Two Hundred Thousand only)譯文1:總價:5,200,000.00 美元。譯文2:總價:5,200,000.00 美元(大寫:伍佰貳拾萬美元)譯文1 與譯文2 意思完全一樣,但譯文1省去了括號中的大寫部分,存在著嚴重的隱患,如果合同一方任意改動數字,則會導致嚴重的后果。而譯文2 則完整、規范,無懈可擊。合同操作是一項專業性很強的業務,而合同的起草及翻譯應體現合同的專業性及嚴密性,如果譯文存在漏洞,則 5
會給合同的操作帶來諸多不便,甚至會引起經濟糾紛。2.2 結構嚴謹
合同語言的句法特點是結構嚴謹,強調句子結構的完整和嚴密,很少用省略句或省略詞。如etc, and the like 等,而且一般也不用表示“大概”、大約”意思的詞,如about,approximate 等,以防止出現歧義。由于英漢兩種語言思維、表達方式不同,英文合同中經常會有冗長的句子,使合同語意的傳遞更加細致嚴謹這些長句英譯時,不能照句直義,把握句子的中心思想及中文表達的時間順序和邏輯關系。請看例句:
1、The prices stated are based on current freight rates, any increase or decrease in freight rates at time of shipment is to be the benefit of the buyer, with the seller assuming the payment of all transportation charges to the point or place of delivery.例句共傳達了三層意思:合同價的計算,買方對運費的責任,賣方對運費的責任。這三層意思密切相連,一層緊接一層。根據英文的表達習慣,用with 介詞結構把第三層與前兩層意思緊密地連在一起,可謂結構嚴密,滴水不漏。考慮到中英文表達習慣的不同,英譯時可用拆句法,從with 處切斷,把這個長句譯為兩個獨立的句子。譯文:合同價格是以現行運費計算,裝運時運費的增減均屬買方。賣方則承擔至交貨地的全部運費。
3、譯文規范
譯文規范是指譯文的結構,條款及語句符合合同文書的程式及約定俗成的要求。一個完整的涉外商業合同的條款多達二十幾項,對買賣雙方的權利和義務做出明確的規定。但就合同的整體結構而言,經過長期的譯,應理解句中短語、修飾詞、連接詞的含實踐、檢驗,已經相對固定。無論是中文本還是英文本,合同大體上可分為標題、序言、正文及結尾四個部分,而且正文中的各個條款也較固定,各部分的語句也有其約定的表達模式。因此,合同英譯時,首先應遵循其約定俗成、規范的格式及規范的語句模式。
(二)翻譯技巧
1、狀語的翻譯 1.1 目的狀語
國際條約用語中的目的狀語通常由in order to, for the purposes of, so as to, so(such)…that 引導,可以位于句首,也可以位于句末。其所在的位置取決于它 6
傳遞的信息在條約內容中的重要性和目的狀語的結構。一般目的為次要信息或者目的狀語含有多個平行結構,行文時以位于句末為主。例如:The General Assembly shall initiate studies and make recommendations for the purposes of:A.Promoting international cooperation in the political field and encouraging the progressive development of international law and its codification;B.Promoting international cooperation in the economic, social, cultural, educational,and health fields, and assisting in the realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race,sex, language, or religion。句中for the purposes of 引導的目的狀語含有兩個平行結構,而句子的主干部分相對短小,若翻譯時把目的狀語放在前面則有“頭重腳輕”的感覺,不如用“以”字把狀語拖后:聯合國大會應發起研究并做成建設以促進:(A)政治上之國際合作,并提倡國際法之逐漸發展編纂。(B)以促進經濟、社會、文化、教育及衛生多部門之國際合作,且不分種族、性別,語言或宗教,助成全體人類之人權及基本自由之實現。1.2 方式狀語
為了避免造成歧義,方式狀語通常放于它所修飾的動詞之前或之后,由副詞或介詞短語來充當,結構上有的比較簡短,有的比較冗長。方式狀語通常都是規定性的,作用是規定條約各方履行義務或行使權力時必須采取的方式或手段。因此,方式狀語有時盡管簡單,但作用卻比較重要。下面的例一:A treaty shall be interpreted in good faith in accordance with the ordinary meaning to be given to the terms of the treaty in their context and in the light of its object and purpose.此句的方式狀語相當冗長,但為了體現其語用特征---條約約文的嚴密性和莊重性,我們還是要把方式狀語放在動詞之前:“條約應依其用語按其上下文并參照條約之目的及宗旨所具有之通常意義,善意解釋之。”放得離動詞更近。1.3 條件狀語
條件狀語的情況比較復雜,有表假設的條件狀語,有表先決條件的條件狀語,還有表示例外情況的條件狀語。引導條件狀語的詞語有if, unless, except, subject to, in case,provided(that)等等,所以在翻譯中不可一概而論,針對不同的條件狀語要采取不同的翻譯技巧。遇到表假設的條件狀語,我們一般考慮將其放到句首,使句子主干部分更加緊湊,結構也更加簡化。
2、使用插入手法
合同英語的表達往往句子冗長,結構復雜。“法律英語慣于使用插入法、調換法,將狀語、同位語或定語插入到主語、謂語、賓語之間,或句子其它位置,這是合同英語的另一大特色。”例如:“申請人應自接到主管機關的批準之后30日內辦理工商登記手續”。一般人很可能譯為:“Applicant should go through industrial and commercial registration within 30 days upon receipt of notice of approval from competent authority.” 而合同英語一般表達為:“Applicant, within 30 days upon為了句子的連貫和順暢,我們把in good faith receipt of notice of approval from competent authority, shall go through industrial and commercial registration.” 合同英語之所以使用插入調換手法,用逗號隔開的處理方法,主要是為了引起當事人對特殊部分的重視。
(三)內容完善
當翻譯人員在完成國際商務合同的文字翻譯后,除了檢查譯文是否已忠實地按中文原稿譯出,有無錯譯、漏譯外,最重要的還有對合同內容仔細加以推敲、勘漏。國際商務經濟合同是交易雙方的利益所在,如果合同制定得過于簡單或不夠嚴密,就容易給外國不法分子以可乘之機,而使國和業蒙受重大損失。所以,幫助合同草擬者完善合同條款,是譯員義不容辭的責任。請看如下一名譯者的一條質量保證條款:“賣方保證貨物全新、未曾使用過、料質優、做工一流,并在質量、規格和性能等諸方面均符合本合同規定,并保證貨物自到達目的港日起6 個月內運轉正常。原譯:The Sellers shall guarantee that the commodity is made of best materials, with first-class workmanship, brand-new, unused and complies in all respects with the quality,specifications and performance as stipulated in this Contract.The Sellers shall guarantee that the commodity shall perform satisfactorily for a period of six months beginning form the date on which the commodity arrives at the port of destination.”譯完后對這一條款內容進行推敲,會發現質量保證期內,貨物發生運轉不良,也不一定是賣方的責任,因為有可能是由于買方安裝不當、操作不善、不注意保養及直接或間接的意外事件引起的,以及貨物材料及做工規定中使用“質優”、“一流”等詞語,顯得太籠統含糊。這些詞在廣告中還勉強可以使用,但在嚴肅的法律文體中,由于無法確定衡量標準,故易引起糾紛。于是將中文原 8
文修正如下:“賣方保證貨物全新、未曾使用過,在質量、規格和性能等諸方面均符合本合同規定,并保證貨物在安裝、操作正確和適當保養條件下,自到達目的港日起6個月內運轉正常。但對于直接或間接意外事故所造成的損失、損壞,賣方概不負責。”改譯:The Sellers shall guarantee that the commodity is brand-new, unused and complies in all respects with the quality,specifications and performance as stipulated in this Contract.The Sellers shall guarantee that the commodity, when correctly mounted and properly operated and maintained, shall perform satisfactorily for a period of six months beginning form the date on which the commodity arrives at the port of destination.The Sellers shall not be held liable for any losses and/or damages due to direct or indirect accidents.(四)翻譯中常見的錯誤、成因及其對策
1、錯誤
英語合同翻譯中的錯誤很多,大體表現在兩個方面:一方面,對合同英語詞或句子的理解停留在字面意思上或機械對應上,對其本質的涵義了解不夠準確;另一方面,翻譯表達上的錯誤常常出現,造成理解上的概念不清,內容混淆。
2、成因 2.1 專業背景
在我國,部分從事國際貿易的業務并非經濟類或法律專業的畢業生,相當一部分畢業于外語類。盡管他們擁有語言上的優勢,在詞語的專業含義把握上尚可,但是對專業背景知識的了解上卻有欠缺。2.2 文化差異
即便是許多與國際貿易直接相關的專業出身,具有扎實的語言和專業基礎的業務骨干也難免在涉外合同的翻譯過程中出現各種疏漏,因為要做到對對方國家語言文化的深層把握是非常困難的。盡管他(她)們掌握了一定的專業背景知識,但不同國家地區間的文化內涵、民俗風情都存在著巨大差異。有一些詞語由于文化內涵的差異,其英語涵義與漢語涵義并不對等。因此,文化差異所造成的思維模式、傳統觀念等差異,使得一份英語合同的理解差異成為可能,翻譯 成的理解距離也是引發誤解或誤譯的觸點之一。
3、對策
每一份英語合同的翻譯對促成和確保每一筆業務的簽定和順利履行都是十分重要的。應牢記合同英語翻譯所應該注意的兩個主要要求:“
1、忠實于原文的內容,將原文的內容充分表達出來,無任意增減刪略或歪曲背離。
2、使用規范的譯文語言形式,力求簡明易懂、文理正確、嚴謹通順,無生硬晦澀之處。”在這兩個要求的基礎上貫通理順每一份合同所涉及的專業背景和文化背景,先將著眼點放在對原文的忠實、準確的理解上,然后再盡可能精確地翻譯出每一項條款,尤其是具體條款的真正涵義。為了準確翻譯,避免理解歧義,業務人員往往在合同的一開始就使用大量的定義條款,把合同中的重要名詞的含義加以界定,給予充分解釋,以免日后發生分歧。這種在草擬合同時嚴謹的做法,對合同的翻譯有很大幫助,并有助于雙方順利達成交易。而理解對于翻譯的重要性是毋庸置疑的。翻譯中理解常常是第一位的,沒有對合同每一項條款準確、到位的把握和理解,就很難有忠實、精確的翻譯表達。為此,僅有扎實的語言基本功在英語合同翻譯中是遠遠不夠的,更需要有一定的專業知識背景,以及對不同合同翻譯中的錯誤所造成業務上的損失等文化背景的了解,這樣才可能盡力避免由于不具備一定 專業背景知識,不了解文化差異所造成的合同翻譯中的錯誤。
三、結 語
通過以上對合同語言特點的翻譯,我們發現合同的語言不同于日常語言。合同語言專業性強,句子冗長而復雜,用詞偏僻,晦澀難懂。合同英語表達,除有上述優點外,還有拉丁語,古英語等特色語言,這樣會使人們在理解英語合同的時候出現困難。合同是約定當事人權利義務的正式文件,行文非常嚴謹而確切,英文的理解或表達欠缺準確,很有可能給合同的理解、履行埋下禍根,給爭議的解決帶來更大的麻煩。合同英語有其特點。對已經掌握英語基本語法和技能的專業人士或學生來說,初始可以從比較國外英文合同與國內中文合同的格式入手,然后從句式結構和用詞兩個方面理解兩種文本的異同,體會國外英文合同的特點,尤其應關注中文合同一般未包括的而同類英語合同中又約定的合同事項,這就要求我們不斷地在實際應用合同的過程中不斷學習合同的特點。若了解合同英語的基本特點,既可以使人在閱讀合同的過程中有的放矢,為快速準確地閱讀、理解、翻譯各類合同打下基礎。提高翻譯能力,絕無捷徑。翻譯人員應不斷提高 10
漢英兩種語言的水平,在實踐中摸索,學習涉外經濟合同翻譯理論和常用技巧,切實提高翻譯能力。只有遵循“實踐——認識——再實踐——再認識”這一規律,不斷總結,逐步認識漢英兩種語言的異同。國際商務合同漢英翻譯的異同,才能積極有效地提高翻譯能力與水平。
[參考文獻] [1]王浩杰.商務合同的特征與翻譯策略[J].河北科技大學學報.1999 年第2 期 [2]閻善明.商務英語寫作[M].北京:對外經濟貿易大學出版社.2001 年 [3]傅偉良.商務合同寫作指要[M].北京:商務印書館.2001 年
[4]譚艷芳.商務英語合同的翻譯方法[J].江門職業技術學院學報.2006 年第3 期 [5]李惠.商務英語讀本[M].上海:上海科技出版社.2000 年
[6]張艷麗.商務英語合同的常見翻譯錯誤及其解決對策[J].齊齊哈爾高等專科學校學報.2002 年第1 期
[7] 吳蓉花.商務合同翻譯的標準與策略[J].湖南城市學院學報,2007.28.
第二篇:淺論國際商務合同翻譯原則
淺論國際商務合同翻譯原則
摘要:改革開放以來,我國的國際經貿活動日益頻繁,需要簽署的商務合同和需要書寫的法律文書越來越多,商務合同作為一種媒介,就顯得越來越重要。商務合同屬于法律文件,對簽約雙方都具有法律約束力。譯文稍有差錯就會給雙方當事人造成巨大的經濟損失。本文列舉了大量的實例來對國際商務合同翻譯的原則加以分析,希望能對大家有所幫助。
關鍵詞:國際; 商務合同; 翻譯原則
Abstract: Since the reform and opening up,we have more and more international economic and trade activities,thus we need to sign and write more and more legal documents.Business contracts are very important as a media.Business contracts are legal documents and are binding on both sides.Small errors in contract will caused huge losses.This paper lists a lot of examples to analysis the principle of the international business contract translation,hoping to be of help.Keyword: International ; Business contract ; The principle of translation 前言
21世紀是一個催人奮進的時代,科技革命迅猛發展,知識更替日新月異,國際競爭力日趨激烈。中國加入世貿組織以來,與它國經濟交流越來越多,經濟發展日益國際化。與國內經濟不同,國際經貿活動要涉及兩個或兩個以上國家或地區的當事人,因此需要一個媒介來促使雙方達成共識.國際商務合同作為媒介的作用突現出來。
合同,也叫契約,“契”意思相投或相合,“約”是用語言文字互相遵守約定,合同是指自愿訂立共同遵守的條件,合作共事。《中華人民共和國》第二條規定“合同是平等主體的自然人,法人,其他組織之間設立,變更,終止民事權利義務關系的協議〔contracts referred to in this law are agreements between equal natural persons,legal persons and other organizations for the purpose of establishing,altering and terminating mutual civil rights and obligations〕。而國際商務合同作為其中的一種,也具有合同具有的一般的法律特征。對一國而言,國際商務合同也指涉外合同,涉外合同的當事人可以選擇合適適用的法律。我國國際商務合同法有以下幾類:1,國際貨物買賣合同;2,代理合同;3,來件裝配合同;4,融資租賃合同;5,合資經營企業合同;6,勞務合同;7,國際技術咨詢服務合同;8,國際借貸合同;9,國際土木建筑工程承包合同;10,外包合同;11,服務合同;12,風險投資管理協議;13,股權轉讓協議。此類合同都是涉外交易性質需要英漢兩種版本,因此需要翻譯。下面就讓我們一起看一下翻譯時應該注意的方面。
一﹑商務合同的語言特征
商務合同是依法成立的法律文件,有其特殊的文體特征。所謂“文體(style)”就是指人們使用語言時,會根據一定的交際內容,交際目的和交際場合,來選擇一定的表達方式,即語言風格,這種風格既要適應交際對象也要適應特定的語言環境。根據美國語言學家Martin Joos(1962)年的分類,合同屬于莊重文體(the
frozen style),是各種英語文體中正式程度最高的一種。總體來說,這種正式性體現在內容的專業性,語言的嚴謹性和結構的完整性等方面。因此,我們在進行翻譯或者攥稿時,必須要從各個方面把握國際商務合同的語言特征。
1﹑詞匯特征
作為一種正式的文體,在選詞方面應該做到嚴謹,準確,規范,不能添加任何感情色彩,要能準確無誤的表達出合同雙方的權利,義務以及雙方的要求。
(1)﹑多用大詞(Big word)
我們在選擇詞語時,要盡量選擇正式規范的詞語,俗語,俚語,方言,日常生活用語是絕對不允許出現的。例如:“In convening a general meeting of shareholders,notice shall be dispatched to shareholders。”[1]顯然句子中的convening和dispatch比同義詞holding和spread out更為正式。
(2)﹑多用商務法律術語
為了保持合同語言的規范正式性,我們有時寧愿犧牲語言的流暢性也要確保語言的嚴謹莊重性。國際商務合同本質上就是具有法律效力的文本,在長期的實踐過程中,形成了一些獨有的商務法律專業術語。例如:“imputed negligence(轉嫁的過失責任)特指可向與行為人有利害關系的人或有合同關系的另一方追究責任的過失。”商務合同中這類狹義的法律專業術語不以大眾是否理解或接受為轉移,它是商務合同語言準確表達的保障。還有一些介詞短語,“in accordance with ”,“whereas”,“subject to”等等詞組和搭配已經是商務合同專業術語的一部分了。
(3)﹑多用外來詞和古體語
國際商務合同中還有一些外來詞和古體詞作為專業術語。外來詞有不少源于拉丁語或法語,它們的意義比較穩定,可以精確地表達概念,例如:ad valorem duty(拉丁語)從價(關)稅,bona fide holder(拉丁語)匯票的善意持票人,pro rata tax rate比例稅率(拉丁語,即proportional tax rate),insurance premium per capita(拉丁語)人均保險費,force majeure(法語)不可抗力。商務合同英語具有古體特點,主要標志是古體詞語的使用。古體詞(archaism)是一種具有鮮明文體色彩的詞匯成分。雖然這類詞語在現代英語口語和一般書面語中極少使用,但在商務合同等法律文體中,卻大量出現,充分體現出嚴肅的文體風格。合同英語最具特色的古體詞形式當數自由詞素where、here和there與in、by、with和after等構成的復合副詞。如:here +介詞:如,hereto,hereof,herein,hereinafter等。這里here相當于this,指本文獻、合同或有關文件,因此,“hereto”(本合同)相當于to this,依此類推。
2﹑句式特征
(1)﹑常用長句,陳述句,條件句
商務合同中的句子與普通英語句子相比,句子長度,結構和使用從句的連貫性要復雜的多。為了避免遺漏或誤解,因此在合同文本中有很多的限定詞,修飾詞,定義以及復雜狀語,所以句子較長。有時,一個條款的解釋或一個句子就能成為一段。為了使合同雙方明確自己的權利和義務,會經常使用一些復雜的重疊的狀語。在合同中常用陳述句和條件句,而感嘆句和疑問句等幾乎不被使用,這是因為前者語言平實客觀,能更準確的反應事實。陳述句多用來描述,闡述和作出說明或判斷。條件句多用來描述買賣雙方在一定條件下應該采取的措施。
(2)﹑多用插入語
在商務英語合同中,較多的使用插入語對句子內容進行補充說明或者強調。如:“The buyer must,whenever he is entitled to determine the time for shipping the goods,give the sufficient notice thereof.”句子中的“ whenever he is entitled to determine the time for shipping the goods”就是插入語來對句子內容作出更詳細的說明。
二﹑商務合同翻譯的標準
商務英語合同翻譯雖然和普通英語翻譯有很大的差別,但本質上還是一樣的。筆者認為劉法公先生提出的“忠實(faithfully)﹑準確(exactness)﹑統一(consistence)”則從根本上適應了商務英語這一特性。忠實,即準確的將原文語言的信息用譯文表達出來,不求語法與句子結構的一致,但要求信息內涵上的對等。準確,即再將原文語言內容轉換到譯文語言內容的過程中選詞準確,做到概念表達確切﹑物與名所指準確,數碼與單位所指精確,準確是商務英語翻譯的核心。統一,即漢英翻譯過程中的譯名﹑概念﹑術語在任何時候都應該保持統一,不允許將同一概念或術語隨意變換譯文。
三﹑商務合同翻譯的原則
商務合同是一種特殊的應用的文體,它具有用詞準確、正式,句式嚴謹、規范,文體結構固定的特點。而且大量使用法律詞匯,來顯示合同的正規、莊嚴、準確規范以及威嚴的語言特色。因此,作為一名合格的譯者,不僅要有過硬的專業知識與語言功底,還需要了解必要的翻譯原則。這樣才能翻譯出合格的譯文,成為一名合格的譯者。
1﹑譯文準確嚴謹,忠實原文
鑒于商務合同是具有法律效力的文件,它嚴格的規定合同雙方當事人的權利與義務,所以“絲毫不允許語義的模凌兩可而使人誤解,被人鉆了法律的空子,它即使犧牲文字的流暢性也必須保持原文的忠實性。”否則,對原文意思的曲解,會造成嚴重的商貿糾紛。此外,商務合同中有許多法律術語和專業術語,在文本中有特定的含義,因此我們在翻譯時要嚴格的貼近合同所涉及的專業性內容,準確根據已有的商貿專業知識和對課文的理解來翻譯文中的詞,而不是僅僅借助英漢詞典,翻譯出模糊的句子或文章。例如:“The China shall bear all relevant taxes and levies upon the personnel by Chinese Government,whereas the Employer shall bear the same imposed upon the personnel by the government or by an agency or by an official body.[1]此句翻譯為:“中國政府應負責繳納中國政府對人員所征收的一切稅金,雇主應負責繳納項目所在國政府對人員所繳納的一切稅金。”句中的“shall”是法律詞匯,相當于我們漢語中的“應當”,“必須”。句中還有兩個關于“稅金”的單詞,taxes 和 levies。其中tax在表示“稅”時,主要強調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 official body。[1]所以,我們在進行翻譯的時候要注意分清這兩個單詞的具體意思,千萬不能混淆所給,模糊翻譯。例如:“The contract is concluded in case of acceptance of the offer.”其中acceptance 和offer平常譯為“接受”和“提供”,然后在商務合同中是專有術語,應譯為 “承諾”和“要約”,所以譯文為:“要約一旦承諾,合同立即訂立。”還有一些縮略詞(FOB,CIF等)都應該引起我們足夠的重視,不能主觀臆斷,這樣才能保證譯文準確嚴
謹,忠實原文。
2﹑譯文具體清楚,用詞嚴密
鑒于商務合同所使用語言都屬于法律語言范疇,多是法律詞匯,以顯示合同的正規﹑嚴謹﹑規范。所以,我們在選擇詞匯的時候不能選擇一些有歧義的或有多重意思的。例如:“As to the steamer sailing from Shanghai to Los Angeles,we have bimonthly direct services.”[2]句中的“bimonthly”可以指“兩月一次或一月兩次”,這個時候就會給對方造成誤解,是絕對不允許的。例如:“We wish to confirm our telex dispatched yesterday.”句中的“yesterday”是一個相對的概念,在這里用不合適。我們應該使用具體的時間,如:“We confirm our telex of May 20,2014.”還有一些時間和金錢方面的翻譯,要做到翻譯時具體清楚,切不可想當然,而丟失了一些重要信息,造成不必要的麻煩。例如:“Terms of Payment :The Buyers shall open with a bank acceptable to the Sellers an Irrevocable Sight Letter of Credit to reach the Seller 30 days before the month of shipment,valid for negotiation in China until the 15th day after the month of shipment.”[1]翻譯為:“付款條件:買方應由賣方可接受的銀行于裝運月份前30天開立并送達賣方不可撤銷即期信用證,至裝運月份后第15天在中國議付有效。”此句是合同中關于支付的條款,涉及到兩個重要的時間,我們應該看清具體介詞,進行具體清楚的翻譯。
3﹑譯文完整規范,達意通順
所謂完整規范,達意通順,就是把理解了的內容用合乎合同要求的規范語言與形式表達出來。合同文書經過長期的實踐﹑檢驗,其整體結構已經相對固定,大體由標題﹑前言﹑正文及結尾組成,而且正文中的各個條款也相對固定,只需做稍許改變。因此,譯者在翻譯的時候要特別注意已經約定俗成的一些規定及詞語。例如:“documentary bill at sight ”可以翻譯為“即期付有單據的票據”雖然表達的意思符合原文意思,但是概念模糊不清。因為“票據”本來涵義就十分廣泛,而在商務英語中的“票據”大多數指“匯票”,因此可譯為“跟單匯票”。而且中英文在語言結構上存在很大的差別,中文結構較為松散,英文結構較為嚴謹些,這些都會造成文章不通順。再者,商務合同的條款本來就比較繁瑣,翻譯時要首先弄清全文,在弄清各個條款之間的內在聯系,切不可拘泥于原文的句法和條條框框,來達到譯文的條理清晰,通順。切不可像初學者一樣,不加斟酌,生掰硬套,致使譯文更加晦澀難懂。
結語:
通過以上對合同翻譯原則的探討,我們發現合同語言不同于日常生活用語。合同語言專業性強,句子復雜難翻譯,專業詞匯多,涉及的知識面范圍廣。因此,作為一名譯者,擁有過硬的語言功底是遠遠不夠的,還需要有一定的專業知識背景,了解一定的翻譯原則,與時俱進,不斷充實自己。在實踐中摸索,不斷總結英漢兩種語言翻譯的異同,切實提高翻譯能力,語言水平和審美情趣。
第三篇:商務合同翻譯
1)為了便于甲方及時開展工作,乙方應于2009年12月31日前將第一批寄售貨物運到甲方處。在2010年3月十五日左右,甲、乙雙方應就剩下的寄售期限可能銷量達成共識。
In order to facilitate Party A’s work of starting the consignment sales on time, Party B should ship the first lot of consignment goods to Party A before Dec.31, 2009.On or about March 15, 2010, Party A and Party B shall meet to mutually determine on acceptable sales level for the remainder of the consignment period.2)在寄售合同到期后的一個月內,甲方將按合同單價把已售出的貨物以美元形式全額匯給乙方。如果有銷售額總額超過15萬美元的情況,甲方應在一月內將銷售款以美元形式匯給乙方。
Within one month after expiration of the consignment period, Party A shall remit Party B the total sum in U.S Dollars based on the contracted unit price for those items which have been sold.If at any time the total value of goods sold exceeds the amount of U.S.Dollars 150000, Party A shall remit the total sum in U.S.Dollars to Party B within one month’s period of time.3)裝配所需的主要零件、消耗品及部件由甲方運至廣州。如有零部件短少或破損,甲方應負責補充替換。
甲方應于成品交運1個月前開出不可撤銷的信用證以支付全部裝配費和乙方在廣州購買零件、消耗品和部件的費用。
The main parts, consumption articles and components required for assembling will be sent in time to Guangzhou by Party A and if there is any shortage of , or damage to these parts and components , Party A shall be responsible for supplying replacements.Party A shall pay Party B by opening an irrevocable L/C covering the full amount of assembling charges and costs of parts , consumption articles and components purchased in Guangzhou by Party B , one month before the shipment of the finished products concerned.4)一切與本合同有關的進出口手續,均由乙方辦理。
乙方將所裝配的晶體管收音機運交甲方指定的外國買主。有關運費和保險費由甲方負擔。All import and export procedures in connection with this contract shall be taken care of by Party
B.All transistor radios assembled by Party B will be shipped to foreign buyers designated by Party A.The relevant freight and insurance premium shall be borne by Party A.5)晶體管收音機的商標由甲方供給,如有法律糾紛,甲方應負完全責任。
如因裝配需要,由乙方在廣州購買的零部件必須達到品質標準,并應事先經過甲方核準。The trade marks of transistor radios will be supplied by Party A and should there be any illegal involvement, Party A is to be held fully responsible.All parts and components purchased by Party B in Guangzhou, if necessary for assembling transistor radios, must measure up to the quality standards of, and be approved by Party A beforehand.6)本合同自受聘方到校之日起生效,到聘期屆滿時失效。如一方要求延長聘期,必須在合同期滿前一個月用書面向對方提出,經雙方協商同意后另簽延聘合同。
This Contract comes into effect on the first day of the engaged party’s arrival at the AA University and ceases to be effective at its expiration.If either party wishes to renew the Contract, the other
party shall be notified in writing one month before it expires.Upon agreement by both parties through consultation, a new contract may be signed between two parties.7)公司為一有限責任公司及在中華人民共和國法律下的法人,公司的所有活動應遵守中華人民共和國頒布的法律、法令及條例,公司的所有合法權益及利益受中華人民共和國的法律管轄及保護。
The Company is a limited liability company and a legal person under the laws of the People’s Republic of China.All the activities of the Company shall comply with the laws, decrees and regulations promulgated by the People’s Republic of China.All the lawful rights and interests of the Company are subject to the jurisdiction and protection of the laws of the People’s Republic of China.8)合營的一方如不履行本合同或公司章程的義務,違約一方得賠償另一方因此而遭受的經濟損失。
在合營期限內,雙方都無權單方面宣布撤銷或終止本合同。
If either of the Parties fails to fulfil its obligations under this Contract , it shall compensate the other party for all its economic losses resulting therefrom.During the term of operation of the Company, neither Party has the right to announce unilaterally the cancellation or termination of this Contract.9)公司注冊資本為9000萬美元。由中方在簽約后30天內提供土地使用權。外方在2001年3月1日以前提供辦公樓、廠房、必須的設備、設備、機器、工具、儀器、工業產權、非專利技術、生產資金、流動資金等。
The registered capital of the Company is USD 90 million.The Chinese Corp provides the right to use land within 30 days after signing the Agreement.The Foreign Co.provides the office building, factory premises, necessary facilities, equipment, machines, tools, instruments, industrial property rights, non-patent technology, production funds, operating funds, etc.before March 1, 2001.10)如因不可抗力事件使公司無法繼續營業時,本協議可通過雙方協商予以提前終止。如果中方或外方想要把本協議規定的權利和義務進行全部或部分轉讓,另一方有優先購買權。轉讓必須得到審批機關的批準。
In case of Force majeure, which makes it impossible for the Company to continue its business, this Agreement may be terminated ahead of schedule through consultation between the two parties.If the Chinese or foreign party wishes to make an assignment of all or part of its rights and obligations prescribed in this Agreement, the other party shall have the preemptive right to purchase the same.The assignment must obtain the approval of the examination and approval authority.11)如果在保證期內發現運交的設備有缺陷,投資人必須按中方的要求,及時適當解決
In case defect of the delivered equipment is found within the warranty period.INVESTOR shall take appropriate action for settlement without delay ,upon SINO`s request
12)在上述情況下,該缺點經鑒定是由于中方操作經驗不足,搬運不當或某一物品的消耗所致,則投資人應要求中方支付實際運輸費用
In the above instance investor shall request SINO for payment of the actual costs of transportation ,when such defect is judged to be due to inexperienced operation by sino or due to inappropriate handling ,or due to an article of consumption
13)在投資人派遣工程師的任務完成以后,中方如有必要仍可要求投資人繼續給以技術支持,但投資人應要求中方為這種增加的合作支付費用,合作的條款由雙方將來討論約定。
Sino shall be able to request for continued technical support from investor , if necessary, even after completion of the above despatchofinvestor`sengineers.however ,in this instance.investor shall be able to request sino for the cost of such additional technological cooperation.terms and conditions shall be subject to mutual discussion and agreement between sino and investor ,in future
14)乙方確認由其所生產的許可證產品必須嚴格按照甲方所提供的設計,圖紙及規格生產,除依第C條第一款規定的修改內容以外,在任何情況下許可證產品均具備與 所生產的產品相同的質量與運動性能。如果乙方未嚴格依照甲方的設計,圖紙及規格生產,則甲方對于乙方的許可證產品不承擔任何擔保責任。
15)GTT是中方和投資人之間的橋梁GTT應協助中方用展銷會,研討會,技術培訓等辦法在中國銷售產品GTT應在產品品質合格時考慮把這些產品銷往歐洲和非洲
1)GTT shall act as a bridge between SINO and INVESTOR
2)GTT shall assist SINO in marketing in china of products finished by SINO by means fo trade show ,seminar ,technical traning program ,ect
3)GTT shall consider marketing finished products to Europe and Africa when the quality turns out to be satisfactory
16)如果初次檢驗不合格應進行第二次檢驗,如果第二次檢驗仍不合格,則投資人贏在2個月內自費調換有關設備如果檢驗合格,雙方應簽署檢驗證明書一式二份,雙方各執一份
1)In case initial test is unsatisfactory ,a second test shall be carried out.if the second test is again unsatisfactory ,INVESTOR shall replace the equipment involved atits own cost ,within two months after the second text
2)in case text results are satisfactory ,SINO and INVESTOR shall sign a text certificate in duplicate and each party shall keep one copy
17)本合同的訂立,效力,解釋,執行及由其引起爭議的解決均適用中華人民共和國頒布的法律,法令,和條例規定
The making ,validity ,interpretation and implementation of this contract and the settlement of disputes arising thereform shall shall be governed by laws ,decrees and regulations promulgated by the people`s republic of china
18)受聘方的工作時間每周5天,每天7小時,受聘方按照中國,澳大利亞兩國政府規定的節假日放假,寒假按本校校歷規定。
The engaged party works five days a week and seven hours a day ,the engaged party have legal holidays as prescribed by both Chinese and Australian governmentthe winter vacation is fixed by the school calenderf
19)聘方每月支付給受聘方工資2000澳元,并按照澳大利亞政府對在澳工作的外籍教師的規定提供各種福利待遇
The engaginfg party pays the engaged party a monthly salary of 2000 australian dollars and provides him with various benefits as prescribed by Australian government for foreign teachers working in Australia
20)受聘方在入境,離境,或過境時,必須遵守澳大利亞政府有關外國人居住,工資福利以及旅行等的法律,規章,并遵守聘方的工作制度。
The engaged party shall abide by the laws and regulations of the Australian government concerning residence ,wages and benefits ,and travel for foreigners when entering ,leaving and passing through the territory of the country ,and shall follow the working system of the engaging party
21)雙方均不得無故撤銷合同如果聘方要求中途終止合同,除按上述條款承擔工資福利待遇外,需給受聘方增發3個月的工資作為補償金,并于1個月內安排受聘方及其家屬回國并承擔有關費用
若受聘方中途提出辭職,聘方自同意之日起即停發工資,受聘方不再享受各項福利待遇,受聘方及其家屬回國的一切費用均由本人自理
Neither party shall cancel the contract without reasonable causes ,if the engaging party finds it
22)乙方在簽約后15天內,為加工設備開出以甲方為受益人的銀行承兌信用證,其金額不得少于2220萬日元,見票180天付款。這份信用證,只有在乙方收到甲方為蘆筍罐頭對開的信用證后才能生效,甲方在收到這份信用證后,應及時裝運加工設備,提供本協議第七條所需的單證和180天到期的匯票,以便取得他的銀行承兌。
Party b shall within 15 days after signing this agreement establish in favour of party a an banker`s acceptance l/c in payment for the equipment ,for an account not less than J 22200000,available by draft at 180 days sight ,the l/c will be effective only after receipt by party b of a satisfactory reciprocal l/c opened by party a for payment of canned asparagns ,after receipt of the l/c ,party a shall effect shipment of the equipment of the equipment in time ,provide the required documents according to article 7 of this agreement together with the draft at 180 days sight ,and obtain its bank`s acceptance
23)乙方將向甲方提供上述貨物在香港和日本市場的市級零售價以供甲方參考,乙方無權干涉甲方的銷售價,銷售場所,和銷售辦法,但有權提出積極地建議,甲方有責任向乙方提交銷售報告(包括零售價)銷售過程中出現的問題和為提高銷售額而提出的建議,乙方應向甲方提供各種有利于銷售(包括免費樣品,試銷貨物,化妝品促銷資料,技術交流和有貯存條件等)便利。
Party b will submit to party a the actual retail prices of aforesaid articles in hongkong and Japanese markets for party a`s reference.Party b has no right to interfere with a`s selling
price ,spot and method ,but it has the right to make positive proposals , partya is responsibleto submit party b regular reports on selling situation(covering retail price), problems arising in the course of selling and making proposals to improve sales ,party b should provide party a with various arrangements which are conductive to sales(including samples free of charge ,articles for trial sales ,data for promoting cosmetic sales ,technical exchange and conditions for storage etc.
第四篇:商務合同翻譯
? Tranlation of Business Contract
一、商務合同概述
? A contract is an agreement, which legally binds the parties concerned.? 在由Steven H.Gifts編著的“Law Dictionary”中,contract被定義為 “a promise, or a set
of promises, for breach of which the law gives remedy, or the performance of the which the law in some way recognize as a duty.”
? 合同是一種承諾,違反承諾可以得到法律救助,在某種意義上,法律將履行該承諾
看作是一種補償。綜上可見,合同是平等主體之間設立的確定民事權利和義務的法律協議。
? 合同英語屬于莊重文體(the frozen style),是各種英語文體中正式程度最高的一種。
總體來說,這種正式性體現在內容的專業性、語言的嚴謹性和結構的完整性等方面。合同種類
? 正式合同 Contract(P197)
? 協議書 Agreement
? 確議書 Confirmation
? 備忘錄 Memorandum
? 訂單 Order
? 意向書 Letter of intent
二、商務合同的構成部分
一.約首(the head)
1.合同名稱 Title
2.前文(前言)Preamble
1)Date of signing
2)Signing parties
3)Each party’s authority 當事人的合法依據
4)Place of signing
5)Recitalsor WHEREAS clause 定約緣由
二.本文(Body)
① 定義條款(Definition clause)
② 基本條款(Basic conditions)
③ 一般條款(General terms and conditions)
a.合同有效期限(Duration)
b.終止(Termination)
c.不可抗力(Force Majeure)
d.合同的讓與(Assignment)
e.仲裁(Arbitration)
f.適用法律(governing law)
g.訴訟管轄(Jurisdiction)
h.通知手續(Notice)
i.合同的修改(Amendment)
j.其他(Others)
三.約尾(the tail)
① 結尾語包括合同的份數、使用的文字和效力等(Concluding sentence)
② 簽名(Signature)
③ 蓋印(Seal)
三、Features of legal documents
1.common words with unusual meaning
?action訴訟alienation轉讓 avoid取消 counterpart有同等效力的副本
? Prejudice提案 save除了vacation休庭期間 limitation時效 minor未成年人
? review審查案件,復審 tort侵權
Eg.1.Thank you for your consideration.?No consideration, no contract.合同無對價不成立。
Eg.2.The testator died without issue.立遺囑人死亡時沒有子嗣.?The parties could not agree on the issue.?The passport was issued by the Liverpool office.2.Old English
To make the compound words by adding after, by, in, of, on, to, under, upon, or with after here,there, or where
? Hereafter: in this document and after this point 此后, 以后
? Hereby: in this way or by this letter以此, 特此, 由此
? Thereby: by that 按此, 借此, 從而, 由此
? Therefrom: from that從那里
Whereas Party A is willing to employ Party B and Party B agrees to do as Party A’s engineer in
Beijing, it is hereby agrees as follows.鑒于甲方愿聘請乙方,乙方同意應聘為甲方在北京的工程師,雙方協議如下:
In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreement herein contained, the parties agree
as follows.雙方考慮到在此提出的契約和協議, 同意如下條款.3.Use the synonymous word with its relevant words
? Terms and conditions 條件 null and void 無效free and clear of 無
?able and willing 能夠并愿意any duties, obligations or liabilities所有責任
? applicable laws, regulations, decrees, directives,and rules 適用法律法規
?charges, fees, costs and expenses 各種費用any and all 全部
?covenants and agreements 合同,協議customs and usages 慣例
? import duty and tax 進口稅捐keep secret and confidential保密
? licenses and permits 許可packing and wrapping expenses 包裝費
? rights and interests 權益settle claims and debts 清理債務
? ships and vessels 船只sign and issue 簽發
? support and maintenance 維護use and wont習慣,慣例
1)This Agreement made and entered into by and between ABC Co.and XYZ Co.ABC 公司和XYZ公司雙方簽訂本協議。
2)All documents, letters, telegrams and telexes interchanged between both parties before the
signing of the Contract shall become null and void automatically from the date on which the
Contract comes into force.雙方在簽約前交換的所有文件、書信、電報和電傳,應從本合同生效之日開始自動失效。
4.Latinate words
?alibi—不在犯罪現場ad hoc – 專門地de facto---事實上的?bona fide---真誠的alias---別名 versus---對,訴
eg.He established an alibi to the charge of murder.?他提供了謀殺案發生時不在場證明。
?他證實在謀殺案發生時,他不在場。
5.Formal words
? Compare the following two kinds of words and expressions
1)At the request of Party B, Party A agrees to send technicians to assist/help Party B to install
the equipment.應乙方要求,甲方同意派遣技術員幫助乙方安裝設備
2)Party A shall send back/repatriate the patient to China and bear the cost of his passage to
Beijing.甲方應將病人遣返中國,負責病人回到北京的旅費。
Failure to notify Party A shall be deemed to be/ be regarded as a material breach of this
agreement.?未能按上述要求通知甲方的,則視為構成實質違約。
Enclosed is our new Quotation NO.475 in lieu of/in place of the previous one.?隨附我公司第475號報價替代前發的報價單。
Prices are subject to change/alteration with or without notice.?不管是否事先通知,價格可隨時變動。
憲法優先于其他一切法律
? Constitution is before/ prior to all other laws.? 任何一方不得在不預先通知的情況下終止合同
?Either party shall not terminate /stop the contract without notice in advance.–Terminate, stopcommence, begin
– be deemed to,be regarded asin lieu of, in place of
– prior to, beforewhatsoever, whatever
– accomplish, doadditional, extraacquire, get
– alteration,changeapplication, useassistance, help
注意may、shall、should、will、may not、shall not等詞語的法律內涵
? May、shall、should、will、may not、shall not等詞的確很常見,但是在合同中這些
詞具有特殊的意義,所以翻譯起來要極其謹慎,避免引起糾紛。
a.May:在表示合同上的權利(Right)、權限(Power)或特權(Privilege)的場合中
使用。若表示某種權利在法律上具有強制性的時候,更多的是“be entitled”。
b.Shall:在合同中并不是單純的將來時,一般用它來表示法律上可以強制執行的義務
(Obligation)。如未履行,即視為違約,并構成某種賠償責任。所以,shall在譯文里,通常
表示“應該”或“必須”,當然,也有不翻譯的時候。例如:
? The quality and prices of the commodities to be exchanged between the ex-importers in
the two countries shall be acceptable to both sides.? 貨物的質量和價格必須使進出口雙方都能接受。
? The formation of this contract, its validity, interpretation, execution and settlement of
the disputes shall be governed by related laws of the People’s Republic of China.? 本合同的訂立、效力、解釋、履行和爭議的解決均受中華人民共和國法律的管轄。
shall沒有譯出。
c.Should:在合同中通常只用來表示語氣較弱的假設,多翻譯成“萬一”或“如果”,極少譯成“應該”。
? The board meeting shall be convened and presided over by the Chairman.Should the
chairman be absent, the vice-Chairman shall, in principle, convene and preside over the
board meeting.? 董事會會議應由董事長召集、主持;若董事長缺席,原則上應由副董事長召集、主
持。
? The parties hereto shall, first of all, settle any dispute arising from or in connection with
the contract by friendly negotiations.Should such negotiations fail, such dispute may be
referred to the People's Court having jurisdiction on such dispute for settlement in the
absence of any arbitration clause in the disputed contract or in default of agreement
reached after such dispute occurs.? 雙方首先應通過友好協商,解決因合同而發生的或與合同有關的爭議。如果協商未
果,合同中又無仲裁條款約定或爭議發生后未就仲裁達成協議的,可將爭議提交有
管轄權的人民法院解決。
d.Will:一般使用在沒有法律強制的情況下,也用做表示承擔義務的聲明,但語氣和
強制力比Shall弱。
e.May not(或shall not):用于禁止性義務,即“不得做什么”。
? 6.Terminology
?cause of action案由defendant 被告appeal 上訴
? damages損失,賠償金force majeure不可抗力 …
Indemnity n.a promise to protect someone from money lost or goods damaged;賠償的保證
repayment for this;賠償金
An insurance contract that promises to pay for the replacement or repair of lost of
damaged goods賠償物
e.g.to arrange an ~ against loss辦理損失賠償
to demand an ~ for the delayed payment因延期付款要求賠償
Money demanded by a victorious nation at the end of awar as a condition of peace is an ~.戰爭結束時,戰勝國作為和平條件索取之款項稱為“賠款”。
Infringement: violation n.違反;違背;侵犯;侵害
Force majeure: an unexpected and unavoidable event that causes or allows a contract to
be changed or cancelled if it has a force majeure clause.e.g.As a result of force majeure the transaction was not completed.基于不可抗力的因素,交易未能完成。
Arbitration : the settling of a dispute by means of a neutral third party rather than by a
court of law.仲裁(通過中立的第三方不通過法庭解決糾紛)
e.g.They decided to settle the dispute by ~.他們決定通過仲裁解決爭議。
Translation requirements
?1.Adequate & precise
?Eg.Unless it is legally or physically impossible, the contractor shall execute and
complete the works and remedy the defects therein in strict accordance with the
contract to the satisfaction of the engineer.?除法律或條件不允許的情況之外,承包方應嚴格按合同施工和竣工,并改進工作中的任何缺陷,達到工程師滿意的程度。
?Party A shall send technicians atParty B’s expense to train Party B’s personnel withindays after signing the Contract.? 甲方應于簽約后三十天內派遣技術員培訓乙方的人員,有關費用由乙方承擔。
?This Contract can only be altered, amended or supplemented in accordance with
documents signed and sealed by authorized representatives of both parties.?本合同的修改補充應有雙方授權代表簽名蓋章的文件,才能進行
?合營企業的一切活動應遵守中華人民共和國法律、法令和有關條例規定。
?All the activities of the joint venture, shall comply with the provision of the laws,decrees and pertinent regulations of the Republic of China.? 拘役的期限,為十五日以上六個月以下。
?A term of criminal detention shall not be less than 15 days and no more than 6 months.2、expressiveness & smoothness
?合同文本是一種法律文件,屬于莊嚴性文體。翻譯商務合同時還應該把規范通
順視為另一大原則。所謂“規范”,是指譯文必須符合法律語言的特點,盡量體現出
契約文體的特點。而所謂“通順”,是指譯文應當符合漢語的語法要求,使譯文清晰
易懂。
? During the period from the date of effectiveness to the termination of the Contract, the
two Parties shall hold a meeting very year to discuss problems arising form the execution
of the Contract.原譯:在合同生效之日起到合同終止之日的期間內,雙方每年舉行一次會議,討論合同
發行中出現的問題。
? 原文在理解上沒有什么特別困難的地方,譯文意思也算正確,但只對原文逐字逐句
翻譯,顯得呆板,改譯為:
? 本合同有效期間,雙方應每年正式會晤一次,以討論本合同履行期間存在的問題。
? The date of Bill of Lading shall be taken as the conclusive proof of the date of shipment,six(6)days grace shall be allowed for shipment earlier or later than the time agreed
upon by the Parties.In the event of the goods for one order being shipped in more than
one lot, each lot shall be deemed to be a separate sale on Contract.? 原譯:提單的日期應為交貨日期的最后證明。雙方允許交貨比約定的時間早交或遲
交六天。一次訂貨多于一批裝運,那么,每批貨應被當作是合同的單獨買賣。
? 原譯文表達累贅,結構松散,不合乎漢語契約文體的簡約風格。改譯為:
? 交貨日期以提單所載日期為準,雙方同意在合同約定的交貨期的基礎上,允許有前
后六天的裝運寬限期。若一次訂貨分批裝運,則每一批貨為合同項下的單獨 買賣。
? One-third of the total amount shall be paid with the order when the Contract is signed,one third by documentary bill when shipment is effected, and the balance by clean bills
when the goods have arrived.? 合同簽訂時先預付貨款總額的三分之一,裝船后憑跟單匯票再付三分之一,剩余的三分之一在貨物抵達時憑光票一次性付清。
? 譯文充分利用添加的橫線部分充分表明了原條款的三個付款階段:交貨前、交貨時、交貨后,使得層次清楚,表達通順。
合同的訂立、生效和履行
? 1.This contract is made in two originals that should be held by each party.?此合同一式二份,由雙方各持一正本。
? 2.What is left unmentioned in contract may be added there as an appendix.? 本合同未盡事宜,可由雙方增補作為合同附件。
? 3.本合同一式四份(正副本各兩份)自簽署后生效
? The Contract is written in quadruplicate(two for original and copy respectively)which
shall become valid on the date of signature.? 4.本合同為中英文兩種文本,兩種文本具有同等效力。本合同一式兩份。自雙方簽
字(蓋章)之日起生效。
? This Contract is executed in two counterparts each in Chinese and English, each of which
shall be deemed equally authentic.This contract is in 2 copies effective since being signed by
both parties.?5.Unless the terms or context of this contract otherwise provide, all term used in this
Contract shall have the meanings set out in Schedule A hereto.? 除本合同條款或上下文另有所指,本合同中所有相關用語的定義見附錄甲。
?6.it has full authority to enter into this Contract and to perform its obligations
hereunder;
? 該方有全權訂立本合同以及履行本合同項下義務;
2.Modification
? 7.債務人將合同的義務全部或者部分轉接給第三方的,應當經債權人同意。
?If the debtor intends to transfer all or part of his obligations under the contract to a
third party, consent shall be obtained from the creditor.?Where the obligor delegates its obligations under a contract in whole or in part to a
third party, such delegation shall be subject to the consent of the obligee.? 8.債權人轉讓權利的,應當通知債務人。未經通知,該轉讓對債務人不發生效力。
?Any transfer of rights by a creditor shall be notified to the debtor.The transfer
shall not bind the debtor without such notification.?Where the obligee assigns its rights, it shall notify the obligor.Such assignment will
have no effect on the obligor without notice thereof.3.Termination of contracts
? 9.This Contract may be terminated at any time prior to expiration of the Term by the
mutual written contract of the Parties.? 本合同期限屆滿之前,雙方可通過書面協議隨時終止本合同。
? 10.This Contract shall terminate upon the expiration of the Term unless extended
pursuant to Article.(Term).? 本合同于合同到期日終止,除非雙方按照第[]條(合同期限的續展)的規定續約。
? 11.當事人可以約定一方解除合同的條件。解除合同的條件成就時,解除權人可以
解除合同。
?The parties may agree upon conditions under which either party may terminate the
contract.Upon satisfaction of the conditions, the party who has the right to terminate
may terminate the contract.? 12.Termination of this Agreement for any reason shall be without prejudice to any
right of action vested in either Party at the date of termination.? 本協議無論因何原因終止,不得損害任何一方在終止協議時的任何的行動權利。
? 13.合同的權利義務終止,不影響合同中結算和清理條款的效力。
? The termination of rights and obligations under a contact shall not affect the validity of
clauses that related to the final settlement of accounts and winding-up.4.Liability for Breach of Contract
? 14.當事人雙方都違反合同的,應當各自承擔相應的責任。
? If both parties breach a contract, each party shall bear its own respective liabilities.? 15.If a party fails to perform its obligations under a contract, or its performance fails to
satisfy the terms of the contract, it shall bear the liabilities for breach of contract such as to continue to perform its obligations, to take remedial measures, or to compensate for losses.? 當事人一方不履行合同義務或者履行合同義務不符合約定的,應當承擔繼續履行、采取補救措施或者賠償損失等違約責任。
? 5.Applicable law and dispute resolution
? 16.Where other laws provide otherwise in respect of a contract, such provisions shall
prevail.? 其他法律對合同另有規定的,依照其規定。
? 17.本合同的訂立、效力、解釋、履行受中華人民共和國法律的管轄。
? The formation, validity, interpretation and execution in respect of this contract shall be
governed by the relevant laws of the People's Republic of China.? 18.仲裁裁決是終局的,對雙方都有約束力。
?The arbitral award is final and binding upon both parties.
第五篇:國際商務函電翻譯
※我們愿意在平等互利,互通有無的基礎上與貴公司建立業務聯系
1.We are willing to enter into business relations with your firm on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, and to exchange what on has with what one needs.承蒙中國外貿組織的介紹,我們得知貴公司有意在本地市場做生意
2.Through the courtesy of Chinese External Trade Organization, we have your name as a firm who is interested in doing business with us in this market.我們是世界上最大的絲綢進口商之一。我們過去一直是從日本進口的,現在我們想到中國市場訂購
6.Please be informed that we are one of the largest importers of silk in the world.We have been importing this item from Japan and now intend to extend our business to import the same from China.為了使你們對我們可供出口的各類紡織品有一個總的概念,隨函寄上樣本和價格單各一份,供你們查閱
8.In order to give you a general idea of our various textiles available for export, we are enclosing herewith sample books and a copy of price list for your information.※我們收到你方6月4日對我們電子玩具的詢價,現高興地向你方報盤如下,供你參考
5.We have received your inquiry of June 4 for our electronic toys and now take pleasure in making you the following offer for your consideration 考慮到貴方將開出大量的訂單,對于我們最近的報價將允許一定的折扣
10.We will allow certain discount on our recent quotation considering your large order.為了開展雙方間具體的業務,我們很高興向你方報特盤,以我方最后確認的為有效報價
11.In order to start the concrete business between us, we are glad to make you a special offer, subject to our final confirmation.按照你們的要求,我們報50公噸大豆的實盤如下,以自本日起一周之內向你方復到為準
15.At the request of you, we offer you firm, subject to your reply reaching here within one week, 50m/t soybeans as follows.※現附上我方第101號合同正本兩份,請會簽并早日寄回一份
2.Enclosed please find Contract No.101 in two originals.Please counter sign and return one copy at earliest.你公司2005年9月20日來函內附1000臺縫紉機訂單一紙已收到。茲附寄第346號銷售確認書一式兩份,請會簽一份以便存檔
5.We have received your letter of 20th September 2005 enclosed an order of 1000 sets of sewing machines.We hereby enclose the sales contract No.346 in duplicate.Please countersign and return one copy to us for our file.你方8月14日的來函及隨附的訂單已受到。茲附寄第235號銷售確認書一式兩份,請會簽一份以便存檔
7.Your letter of August 14 and the enclosed order have been received.We are enclosing our Sales Confirmation No.235 in duplicate, one of which please sign and return for our file.請注意,信用證條款與合同條款必須嚴格相符,以免日后修改
8.Please note that the terms and conditions of / in the L/C must strictly comply with those of / in the contract so as to avoid future amendments.※如能收到貴方訂單,我們將非常感謝
1)We shall be pleased to receive your kind orders.應你方要求,我方破例接受即期付款交單方式,但下不為例
5)In compliance with your request, we exceptionally accept delivery against D/P at sight, but this should not be regarded as a precedent.我方將以托收方式開出向你方支取的即期跟單匯票
6)We will draw on you by our documentary draft at sight on collection basis.我們只接受在簽約后3天內以電匯預付發票總金額的20%,余下的80%以即期信用證方式付清,要求該信用證必須在裝運前15-30天內送達我方
7)We can only accept 20% T/T in advance within 3 days upon signature of the S/C, and the other 80% of the total invoice value shall be made by L/C at sight to reach us 15-30 days before the delivery.※裝運期將近,如果能盡快開立以我方為受益人的信用證將不勝感激
1.The date of shipment is approaching, we should be grateful if you will open an L/C in our favor as soon as possible.經詳閱,我們對第276號信用證按貴方要求進行了必要的修改 4.On perusal we made necessary amendments to the L/C.按照你方4月10日來信要求,我方已通知銀行將信用證展證至10月31日
6.As requested in your letter of 10 April, we have advised the bank to extend the L/C to 31 October.由于我方訂不到艙位,我方要求將信用證交貨期和有效期分別展期到4月10日和4月25日
7.As we cannot obtain the shipping space, we would like to have the delivery date and validity of L/C extended to 10 April and 25th April respectively.※請確保此包裝牢固,足以承受粗魯的搬運
4.Please be assured that the packing is strong enough to withstand rough handling.我們通常把每件男襯衫裝入一個盒子里,半打裝一箱,10打裝一個木箱
5.We usually pack each piece of men’s shirt in a box, half dozen to a carton and 10 dozen to a wooden case.請把每臺電視機裝一紙板箱,每4臺裝一適合于出口的木箱
6.Please pack one TV set to a cardboard box, 4 sets to a wooden case suitable for export.我們要求內包裝小巧而精美以有助于銷售,外包裝輕便而堅固以易于搬運
8.We require the inner packing to be small and exquisite to help sales and the outer packing to be light and strong to be easy to carry.※本函隨寄了有關包裝和貨物價值的一些材料。如果貴方能報從港口到港口一切險的保險費率,本公司不勝感激 4.Details with regards to packing and values are attached, and we would be grateful if you could quote a rate covering all risks from port to port.我們已向中國人民保險公司將100公噸羊毛按發票金額的110%投保一切險,保險費用為3% 6.We’ve covered insurance with the People’s Insurance Company of China on the 100 metric tons of wools for 110% of the invoice value against All Risks at the rate of 3%。
將由我方按照到岸價的發票金額110%辦理該貨的保險,如果需要,額外增加保險的費用將由買方承擔
7.Insurance on the goods shall be covered by us for 110% of the CIF value, and any extra premium for additional coverage, if required, shall be borne by the buyers.很遺憾,我們不能接受這一索賠,因為你們的保險沒有包括破碎險
17.Much to our regret, we cannot accept this claim as you have not covered the risk of breakage.※我們沒法取得艙位,所以要求轉運
1.We cannot obtain the shipping space, so we ask for transshipment.另一種方法就是我們將貨物分批裝運
2.An alternative is to make partial shipment.開往你地的輪船非常少,我們很難在直達輪上訂到艙位
3.As the steamer to your port is few and far between, it is difficult for us to book shipping space on a direct line.第E493號合同和第2864號信用證項下3000臺彩電到目前為止仍未收到任何裝船消息,這給我們帶來很大麻煩 4.We haven’t received any news about shipment of 3,000 sets color TV under contract No.E493 and No.2864, which involve us in big trouble.※經檢查發現近30%的包裝破爛,顯示由于包裝不妥所致
2.The inspection found that nearly 30% of the packaging broken, due to packaging is wrong.很遺憾貴方到貨的質量與雙方商定的不符。由于該貨不能出售,對我方也無用,我方向貴方索賠金額xx 3.Unfortunately the inconsistent quality of your arrival to that agreed upon by both parties.Since the goods can not be sold and also useless to us, we place our claims for xx.經目的港復檢,維多利亞號運來的羊毛的質量與第3215號合同所規定的完全不符
4.The re-examination of the port of destination shows the quality of the wool shipped in S/S “Victoria” is completely incompatible to that stipulated under No.3215 contract.我方對東風輪裝運的1000噸小麥水分過多提出索賠
6.We make claims due to moisture content of 1000 tons of wheat shipped by S/S “Dongfeng” more than the required level.※我們愿意擔任你們現行出口商品的代理,因為我們擁有一個廣闊的國內市場。
1)We would like to act as your agent for ruling export goods, as we own a wide domestic market./We would like to represent you under agency for your ruling exports, for we retain a great share of our domestic market.代理問題尚在考慮中,希望在現階段繼續努力推銷我們的產品
3)The issue of agency is under consideration and we hope you will do your best to push the sale of our products at present stage.對你們想擔任獨家代理的請求,我們正在仔細考慮。同時,我們很想了解你方推銷我們產品的計劃
7)We are taking your request of acting as our sole agent into account and at the same time we are keen to know your plan for promoting our products./While taking your request of working as our sole agent under careful examination, we need to learn in detail about your plan to push our products.在產品的廣告方面我們盡了很大努力,營業額仍不能令人滿意
8)We have done much efforts in advertising the products but the volume of trade is not satisfactory./Though much efforts have been taken in advertising the product, we still feel dissatisfied about out turnover.