INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Information technology is crucial in today's society, significantly influencing various aspects of life and the development of nations Vietnam, as a developing country, strives to advance in information technology to compete globally However, the vastness of this field, filled with numerous specific terminologies, demands extensive knowledge and ongoing research from learners Consequently, translating IT terminology from the source language to the target language presents challenges for students.
Many Vietnamese learners face challenges in translating IT terms, and I often find myself confused by this specialized vocabulary Therefore, it is essential for both myself and other learners to build a solid foundation of linguistic and cultural knowledge in both our native and foreign languages Additionally, my interest in translation skills, particularly in the realm of IT terminology, has motivated me to pursue this research This study not only enhances my understanding of technical translations but also contributes to the broader field of translation studies.
Aim of the study
The research on translating specialized terminology in Information Technology focuses on identifying prevalent translation strategies and procedures, as well as recognizing commonly used terms within the IT field.
In details, my Graduation paper aims at:
Collecting and presenting basic English terminologies in IT
Providing their Vietnamese equivalents or expressions
Preliminarily analyzing translation strategies and procedures employed in the translation of these English terms into Vietnamese
This study aims to enhance readers' understanding of both written text and visual presentations related to information technology terms, facilitating effective translation of the content.
Scope of the study
Studying IT terminology demands significant time and effort, making it challenging to master fully Due to constraints in time and knowledge, errors and gaps in understanding are inevitable Consequently, this study emphasizes fundamental translation strategies and a contrastive analysis of IT terms between English and Vietnamese.
Method of the study
This graduation paper employs a qualitative research method to explore academic concepts and methodologies, aiming to provide valuable insights into the identified problem and foster the development of innovative ideas.
This study compiles English-Vietnamese terms sourced from dictionaries and online resources, providing illustrations to enhance readers' understanding of the Information Technology field.
Design of the study
The study is divided into three parts:
Part I is the Introduction in which rationale, aim of the study, method of the study and design of the study are presented
Part II of the article focuses on Development and comprises four chapters Chapter I provides a theoretical overview, detailing the definitions, methods, and procedures of translation, with a specific emphasis on English for Specific Purposes (ESP) translation Chapter II explores the nuances of English-Vietnamese translation, highlighting key aspects of the translation process.
This article explores popular IT terminology and its Vietnamese equivalents, highlighting commonly used terms in the field Chapter III delves into various techniques employed in the translation of these IT terms, ensuring clarity and accuracy in communication across languages.
IT terminologies o Chapter IV finds out some difficulties faced by students when coping with IT terminologies
Part III is Conclusion that indicates strengths and weaknesses of the study as well as some suggestions for further research.
DEVELOPMENT
The definition of translation varies upon linguists all around the world There are some typical concepts as follow:
Translation is the process of re-contextualizing a text from one language into another, involving a complex linguistic-textual operation This process is significantly influenced by various extra-linguistic factors and conditions, highlighting the intricate relationship between language and its broader context.
‘ inner’ linguistic-textual and ‘outer’ extra-linguistic, contextual factors that makes translation such a complex phenomenon
Translation is the replacement of the textual material in one language (SL) by equivalent textual material in another language
Translation is made possible by an equivalent of thought that lies behind its different verbal expressions (Savory, 1968)
Translation is the process of transforming a message from a specific source language into a form that can be understood by readers of the target language (Houbert, 1998).
Translation involves converting a text from one language to another while preserving the original message's meaning, formal characteristics, and intended roles (Bell, 1991).
Translation is the interpretation of the meaning of a text in one language (the source text) and the production, in another language
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
TRANSLATION THEORY
The definition of translation varies upon linguists all around the world There are some typical concepts as follow:
Translation is a linguistic-textual process that involves re-contextualizing a text from one language to another However, this operation is significantly influenced by various extra-linguistic factors and conditions, highlighting the complex interaction between language and context in the translation process.
‘ inner’ linguistic-textual and ‘outer’ extra-linguistic, contextual factors that makes translation such a complex phenomenon
Translation is the replacement of the textual material in one language (SL) by equivalent textual material in another language
Translation is made possible by an equivalent of thought that lies behind its different verbal expressions (Savory, 1968)
Translation is the process of converting a message from a source language into a target language, ensuring that it is comprehensible to the readers of the latter (Houbert, 1998).
Translation involves converting a text from one language to another while preserving the original message's meaning, formal characteristics, and intended roles (Bell, 1991).
Translation involves interpreting the meaning of a source text in one language and producing an equivalent target text in another language that conveys the same message, as defined by Nida (1959).
Translation does not have a universally accepted method, as various strategies are employed based on factors like the translation's purpose, the target audience, and the type of text involved.
According to Newmark, P (1988:45) there are eight methods of translation namely word-for-word translation, literal translation, faithful translation, semantic translation, adaptation, free translation, idiomatic translation and communicative translation
The translation method that maintains the original word order of the source language (SL) involves translating words individually using their most common meanings, with cultural terms translated literally This approach is primarily utilized to grasp the mechanics of the source language or to interpret challenging texts as a preliminary step in the translation process.
Literal translation involves a direct correspondence between source language (SL) and target language (TL) words, though their primary meanings may vary This method translates SL grammatical forms into their closest TL equivalents, often leading to lexical words being translated out of context Serving as a foundational step in both communication and semantic translation, literal translation highlights potential issues that need addressing in the translation process.
A faithful translation strives to accurately convey the contextual meaning of the original text while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language It effectively transfers cultural terms and maintains the level of grammatical and lexical deviations from the source language norms This type of translation aims to remain true to the author's intentions and the realization of the text in the source language.
Semantic translation prioritizes the aesthetic qualities of the source language (SL) text, allowing for compromises on literal meaning when necessary This approach ensures that elements such as assonance, wordplay, and repetition are preserved in a way that enhances the overall reading experience of the finished translation.
This method represents the most liberal approach to translation, often applied to plays and poetry where themes, characters, and plots are maintained while transforming the source language culture into the target language culture Although the unfortunate trend of literal translations followed by rewrites from established dramatists or poets has led to many subpar adaptations, some have successfully revitalized period plays.
Free translation involves conveying the meaning of the source language (SL) in the translator's own words, rather than adhering closely to the original text This approach focuses on reproducing the content without preserving the form, often resulting in a paraphrase that is longer than the original The primary advantage of free translation is that it allows the target language (TL) text to sound more natural However, a significant drawback is that this freedom can lead to a casual interpretation that may obscure the original message.
Idiomatic translation focuses on conveying the meaning of colloquialisms and idioms rather than translating them literally This approach allows the translator to capture the essence of the original text while using expressions that resonate with the target audience.
The translation process aims to convey the original text's contextual meaning while ensuring that both the language and content are easily understandable for the audience According to Newmark (1982), it is essential for translators to honor and incorporate the structure of the source language text, as it serves as the fundamental material for their work.
In her 1992 work, Baker explores the concept of equivalence within the translation process, examining various levels and aspects of translation She integrates both linguistic and communicative approaches, highlighting the distinctions that arise in translation practices.
Equivalence that can appear at word level and above word level
When translating between languages, Baker emphasizes that a bottom-up approach prioritizes word-level equivalence as the initial focus for translators As they analyze the source text (ST), translators examine individual words to identify their direct equivalents in the target language (TL) Baker notes that a single word can have multiple meanings across languages and may function as a more complex unit or morpheme Therefore, translators must consider various factors, including number, gender, and tense, when evaluating a single word.
English for special purpose
According to Strevens (1988), English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a specialized form of language teaching tailored for specific needs Defining ESP poses challenges, as various researchers highlight different aspects that characterize this approach, leading to diverse interpretations and significant scholarly interest.
According to Strevens (1988: 1-2), a definition of ESP needs to distinguish between four absolute and two variable characteristics:
ESP consists of English language teaching which is:
1 Designed to meet specific needs of the learners
2 Related in content (i.e., in its themes and topics) to particular disciplines, occupations and activities
3 Centered on the language appropriate to those activities, in syntax, lexis, discourse, semantics, etc
ESP may be, but is not necessarily:
1 Restricted as to the language skills to be learnt (e.g.: reading only, speech recognition only, etc.)
2 Taught according to any pre-ordained methodology (i.e., ESP is not restricted to any particular methodology – although communicative methodology is very often felt to be the most appropriate)
To clarify the meaning of ESP, Dudley-Evans (1988:4) gave an extended definition in terms of “absolute” and “variable” characteristics
1 ESP is defined to meet specific needs of the learners
2 ESP makes use of underlying methodology and activities of the discipline it serves
3 ESP is centered in the language appropriate to these activities in terms of grammar, lexis, register, study skills, discourse and genres
1 ESP may be related to or designed for specific disciplines
2 ESP may use, in specific teaching situations, a different methodology from that of
3 ESP is likely to be designed for adult learners, either at a tertiary level institution or in a professional work situation It could, however, be for leaners at secondary school level
4 ESP is generally designed for intermediate or advanced students
5 Most ESP courses assume some basic knowledge of the language systems
Dudley-Evans (1998) builds upon Strevens' (1988) definition of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) by eliminating the rigid distinction between ESP and General English (GE) and incorporating more flexible characteristics This definition indicates that ESP may not be limited to a specific discipline or targeted age group and should be regarded as an "approach" to teaching According to Hutchinson and Waters (1987), ESP focuses on tailoring content and methods to align with the learner's motivations, emphasizing the critical question: "Why does this learner need to learn a foreign language?"
Learners with a specific purpose are aware of their educational needs, particularly in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses For instance, students in the fields of Industry and Commerce expect the English taught to be directly applicable to their jobs They often enroll in these courses not out of a personal interest in the language, but because their careers require a high level of English proficiency As Brumfit (1979) notes, ESP courses are fundamentally focused on the practical purposes for which learners need English, emphasizing functionality in their learning objectives.
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is designed with clear objectives, focusing on the successful execution of professional or educational roles As Strevens (1988) emphasizes, identifying the specific learning needs and purposes allows for the creation of tailored courses that deliver exactly what is required, utilizing effective teaching methods to achieve optimal results.
There are many types of ESP, according to Hutchinson & Waters (1987:
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a key subset of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and plays a significant role in English Language Teaching (ELT) According to Hutchinson and Waters (1987), ESP is primarily categorized into two main types: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and English for Occupational Purposes (EOP), which also encompasses English for Vocational Purposes (EVP) and Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) Robinson (1991) further elaborates on the ESP framework, presenting two variations of the ESP family tree The first version distinguishes between EOP, focusing on work-related training, and EAP, which addresses academic study needs The second version expands the classification into three branches: academic, professional, and vocational, highlighting the diverse requirements of both work and study contexts.
Figure 1: The ESP “family tree” (Robinson, 1991:3)
Pre-experience Simultaneous/ in-service Post-experience
For study in a specific discipline
Figure 2: ESP in the USA (Robinson, 1991:4)
Another typical type tree diagram for ESP which divides EAP and EOP according to discipline or professional area is presented by Dudley-Evans (1998:6)
Figure 3: ESP classification by professional area (Evans & John, 1998:6)
The article discusses two key types of English instruction: English for Occupational Purposes (EOP) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) EOP focuses on equipping individuals with the necessary English communication skills required for specific jobs, such as those in the hospitality industry or as flight attendants In contrast, EAP is designed to prepare students for academic environments, enhancing their ability to engage in higher education settings.
English for (Academic) Medical Purposes
English for (Academic) Management Finance and Economics
English for vocational purposes emphasizes essential study skills such as academic writing, lecture listening, note-taking, and oral presentations, which are crucial for success in academic settings In Vietnam, however, English is primarily taught as a foreign language at universities, making it challenging to differentiate between academic and vocational use Graduates often employ English for various tasks in the workplace, highlighting the overlap between study and work Hutchinson (1987) notes that this distinction is "not a clear-cut" as individuals frequently balance both study and work, utilizing the language skills acquired in academic environments for professional purposes later on.
Technical translation is a specialized form of translation that focuses on documents created by technical writers, such as user guides and owner’s manuals This type of translation pertains to texts related to technological fields and the practical application of scientific and technological knowledge.
In “Approaches to translation” (1981), Newmark differently distinguishes technical translation from institutional translation:
Technical translation is a key component of specialized translation, alongside institutional translation, which encompasses fields such as politics, commerce, and finance It is argued that technical translation is universal and non-cultural, as the advantages of technology extend beyond individual speech communities, necessitating accurate translation of technical terms In contrast, institutional translation is inherently cultural, leading to the transfer of terms unless they relate to international organizations Despite their differing approaches, both authors recognize technical translation as a specialized field characterized by its focus on "special terms."
Terminology
Up to now there are various definitions of terminology by many linguists
Terminology encompasses two key aspects: first, it is the discipline focused on the principles and methods that govern the study of concepts and their designations—terms, names, and symbols—across various subject fields, including the collection, processing, and management of relevant data Second, it refers to the specific set of terms that constitute the specialized language of a particular subject area (Valeontis & Mantzari, 2006).
Terminology refers to the study and practice of collecting, describing, processing, and presenting terms that are specific to specialized fields within one or more languages This discipline focuses on the lexical items used in various areas of expertise, highlighting their significance in communication and understanding across different languages.
Terminology, as a unique component of the lexical system, possesses distinct characteristics Linguists agree that effective terminology should exhibit qualities such as accuracy, systematic organization, international relevance, national identity, and widespread recognition.
The primary quality of terminology is accuracy, ensuring that each term conveys a specific concept clearly to prevent misunderstandings In professional contexts, each term should represent a single concept within that system The meaning of a term arises from a combination of linguistic signals, where each signal carries a fundamental meaning According to New Mark (1998), concept-words can have varied meanings across different technologies Therefore, when developing a term within a specific field, it is crucial to consider potential homophones or synonyms that may exist in the language.
Normal words exhibit polysemy and synonymy, whereas terminology should avoid these characteristics The meanings of everyday words can shift based on context, while terminology maintains a consistent and fixed meaning within specialized fields.
The term "school" can convey multiple meanings in everyday language, showcasing its versatility with up to eight interpretations depending on the context In contrast, within the realm of Information Technology, "Java" is defined with a singular focus: it refers to a general-purpose programming language that is concurrent, class-based, and object-oriented, designed to minimize implementation dependencies.
As regards the accuracy of terminology in terms of form, terminology has no other form or outer cover other than its original one
Certain terms, such as "Java," resist modifications like prefixes or suffixes that indicate pluralization or antonyms While these words typically maintain their original form, they can undergo systematic changes under specific conditions.
The second criterion of a scientific term is its position within a terminological system, as each term derives its meaning from its relationships with other terms When a term is isolated from its system, its meaning becomes vague, highlighting the importance of systematism in terminology There are differing viewpoints among terminologists regarding the characteristics of terminology; some emphasize systematic formation, while others focus on content Ultimately, terminology encompasses both content and expression, and a term's meaning is intrinsically linked to its position within the system.
In the field of Information Technology, the use of suffixes such as -or, -ee, -er, and -ist is a common practice to denote the roles of individuals involved in various documents These suffixes help clarify the positions of people within the IT sector, making it easier to understand their specific contributions and responsibilities.
The word “designer” basically means “người thiết kế” and
“programmer” means “lập trình viên” in Vietnamese It can be seen that the suffix “er” in those two words indicates the position of people in the system
Terms are specialized words that convey common scientific concepts and facilitate global collaboration and exchanges in science and technology Globalization has led to the widespread use of these terms across different languages, accelerating the development of international science Consequently, many terms have been internationalized, although each language, including Vietnamese, adheres to unique principles shaped by its cultural context Vietnamese terminology showcases distinct characteristics, reflecting nationalism and a commitment to accessibility.
Terminology is a unique linguistic unit essential to specific professions and is inherently tied to the national language In Vietnam, it is crucial that terminology reflects Vietnamese culture and the distinctive features of the Vietnamese language This ensures that terms are suitable for the Vietnamese people, encompassing both lexicological and grammatical considerations.
Terminology is a crucial aspect of linguistics that facilitates scientific and technological advancement for everyone Its clarity in reading, writing, speaking, and memorizing is essential for promoting the development of science, making it accessible to all individuals.
According to the International Standardization Organization (ISO,
1988), the following factors are of essential consideration in the creation of terminology are:
Terms must consistently reflect the key characteristics of the concepts they represent to ensure precise reference They should be concise to prevent ambiguity and adhere to the lexical, phonological, and morphological rules of the language Additionally, terms must align with the common word-formation principles, allowing for necessary composition and derivation The meaning of a term should remain context-free Term creation, which includes both primary and secondary formations, is influenced by various factors and motivations When a new concept emerges, primary term formation occurs, while secondary term formation arises to facilitate the monolingual revision of terminology or to adapt terms in the target language through the transfer of knowledge between linguistic communities.
Technical terminology is constantly evolving due to ongoing advancements in science and technology The formation of both primary and secondary terms in this field is influenced by a surge of variants and synonyms, which arise to meet the demand for more accessible scientific terms and to differentiate products.
I.3.4 the distinction between terms and words:
To distinguish between terms and word, we should need to know the definition of each
Words are combinations of letters that, when arranged according to grammatical rules, form sentences or other language structures They serve as meaningful terms that enhance our understanding by representing ideas and concepts.
AN INVESTIGATION INTO ENGLISH –
Definition of Information technology
Information Technology (IT) is a business sector that deals with computing, including hardware, software, telecommunications and generally anything involved in the transmittal of information or the systems that facilitate communication
An IT department in a company encompasses a diverse team with various roles and responsibilities, including ensuring system and data security, maintaining network functionality, data entry, database management, and programming Key decision-makers, such as Chief Information Officers (CIOs), play a crucial role in determining the operational strategies of the IT department and selecting essential components for its success.
Information Technology (IT) encompasses the management and transfer of various data forms, including text, voice, images, and audio With the Internet being a distinct domain, it plays a crucial role in IT, enhancing its significance in our daily lives As IT continues to evolve, it increasingly integrates into new areas, reflecting its growing influence and importance.
Language in Information Technology
A language serves as a system for communication, utilizing sounds, symbols, and words to convey meanings, ideas, or thoughts Distinctions between languages often arise from factors such as geographical boundaries, cultural demographics, and historical contexts Each country develops its own language through unique blends English stands out as the most widely spoken language globally, prevalent in various domains including science, technology, marketing, and business Its significance is particularly pronounced in the field of Information Technology, which plays a crucial role in countries like Vietnam.
In the realm of Information Technology, many terminologies overlap with those in fields such as science and marketing, sharing similar meanings However, certain technical terms are unique to the IT sector and require contextual understanding for accurate translation To effectively interpret these specialized terms, it is essential to have a solid grasp of the underlying language, as well as knowledge of commerce, business, economics, and other relevant domains.
The popular construction of IT terms
The language of Information Technology is rich with various terms, primarily consisting of single and compound words This article aims to familiarize readers with some of the most commonly used IT terminology.
Single terminologies are those that consist of just one word which can be found in a text As the below illustrations:
Argument A reference or value that is passed to a function, procedure, subroutine, command or program Đối số
Account An arrangement by which a user is given personalized access to a computer, website, or application, typically by entering a username and password
Anonymous Having no outstanding, individual, or unusual features; unremarkable or impersonal
Algorithm A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer
Binary Something having two parts Hệ nhị phân
Bug a fault in a machine, especially in a computer system or program
Character a letter, sign, mark or symbol used in writing, in printing or on computers
Crash a sudden failure of a machine or system, especially of a computer or computer system
Compatible Be able to be used with a specified piece of equipment or software without special adaptation or modification
Customize Modify (something) to suit a particular individual or task
Code The symbolic arrangement of data or instructions in a computer program or the set of such instructions
Client Any computer that is hooked up to a computer network
Circuit the complete path of wires and equipment along which an electric current flows
Database A structured set of data held in a computer, especially one that is accessible in various ways
Desktop The working area of a computer screen regarded as a representation of a notional desktop and containing icons representing items such as files
Domain A distinct subset of the Internet with addresses sharing a common suffix or under the control of a particular organization or individual
Designer A person who plans the look or workings of something prior to it being made, by preparing drawings or plans
Disk a device for storing information on a computer, with a magnetic surface that records information received in electronic form Ổ đĩa
Error The occurrence of an incorrect result produced by a computer
Encrypt Convert (information or data) into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access
File A collection of data, programs, etc stored in a computer's memory or on a storage device under a single identifying name
Function A set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program
Format the way in which data is stored or held to be worked on by a computer Định dạng
Graphic An image that is generated by a computer Đồ họa
Gateway a device that connects two computer networks that cannot be connected in any other way
Cổng kết nối Internet cho mạng lớn Hardware the machinery and electronic parts of a computer system
Kernel a computer program that is the core of a computer's operating system, with complete control over everything in the system
Pixel any of the small individual areas on a computer screen, which together form the whole display
Software written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory
Storage The process of storing information in a computer memory or on a magnetic tape or disk
Following are some basic forms of single terms with suffixes and their meaning:
*Single terms in the form of noun:
Noun-forming by suffixes “er”, “tion”, “or”, “y”:
Adapter a device for connecting pieces of electrical equipment that were not designed to fit together
Bộ phận chuyển đổi điện áp Application A program that gives a computer instructions that provide the user with tools to accomplish a task Ứng dụng
Accumulator a section of a computer that is used for storing the results of what has been calculated
Accessibility ow easy something is to reach, enter, use, see, etc
Browser A program used to access World Wide
Web pages Examples: Firefox, Safari or Internet Explorer
Buffer an area in a computer’s memory where data can be stored for a short time
Configuration the equipment and programs that form a computer system and the way that these are set up to run
Computer an electronic machine that can store, organize and find information, do calculations and control other machines
Compiler a program that translates instructions from one computer language into another for a computer to understand
Trình biên dịch
Driver software that controls the sending of data between a computer and a piece of equipment that is attached to it, such as a printer
Directory A listing of the files stored in memory Thư mục lớn Editor a program that allows you to change stored text or data
Extension A suffix preceded by a period at the end of a filename; used to describe the file type Example: On a Windows computer, the extension ".exe" represents an executable file Đuôi tệp
Folder An area on a hard disk that contains a related set of files or alternatively, the icon that represents a directory or subdirectory
Header The portion of an e-mail message or a network newsgroup posting that precedes the body of the message
Interpreter a computer program that changes the instructions of another program into a form that the computer can understand and use
Trình thông dịch
Operation an act performed by a machine, especially a computer
Memory the part of a computer where information is stored; the amount of space in a computer for storing information
Monitor a television screen used to show particular kinds of information; a screen that shows information from a computer
Màn hình máy tính
Programmer a person whose job is writing programs for computers
Parameter something that decides or limits the way in which something can be done
Pointer a small symbol, for example an arrow, that marks a point on a computer screen
Printer An output device that prints the results of data processing
Speaker an electronic device that gives off sound
*Single terms in the form of Verb:
IT terms in the form of verb are widely used in all documents, articles or contracts, the following table will list out some common ones:
Access The operation of reading or writing stored information
Activate Put in motion or move to act Kích hoạt
Automate Make automatic or control or operate automatically
Assemble Create or putting components or members together
Compress to make computer files, etc smaller so that they use less space on a disk, etc
Customize o modify or build according to individual or personal specifications or preference
Connect to join a computer or a mobile device to the Internet or to a computer network
Download to get data from another computer, usually using the Internet
Extract retrieving data out of data sources for further data processing or data storage
Install to put a new program onto a computer
Refresh to make the most recent information show, for example on an Internet page
Reboot the act of restarting a computer, forcing it to go through boot process
Scan to examine a computer program or document in order to look for a virus
Synchronize keeping multiple copies of a dataset in coherence with one another Đồng bộ hóa
Compound terminologies, primarily found in the form of compound nouns and adjectives, consist of two or more words In the realm of Information Technology, these terms are frequently utilized to convey specific concepts and ideas.
*Terminologies consisting of Classifier (Noun) + thing:
In the realm of information technology, specific terminologies consist of two nouns, where the first noun serves as a classifier that differentiates the second noun from similar concepts within the same category This article presents a list of such IT terminologies that exemplify this structure.
Application software a program or group of programs designed for end users
Phần mềm ứng dụng Command line a horizontal line on an interface that allows the user to type in various commands
Fault tolerance the property that enables a system to continue operating properly in the event of the failure of some of its components
Firewall a part of a computer system or network that is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting outward communication
Information system combination of hardware, software, infrastructure and trained personnel organized to facilitate planning, control, coordination, and decision making in an organization
Mainframe computer computers used primarily by large organizations for critical applications; bulk data processing
Thiết bị xử lý trung tâm
Refresh rate the number of times in a second that a display hardware updates its buffer
Tần số làm mới màn hình Source code a text listing of commands to be compiled or assembled into an executable computer program
System software computer software designed to provide a platform to other software
*Terminologies consisting of Prefix +Noun:
These terminologies comprise the Prefix which holds function as Classifier and one word being form of Noun (thing) The following table is the list of these terminologies:
Antivirus computer software used to prevent, detect and remove malicious software
Minicomputer a small computer with a microprocessor as its central processing unit
Multimedia an electronically delivered combination of media including video, still images, audio, and text in such a way that can be accessed interactively Đa phương tiện
Multi-task execute more than one program or task simultaneously Đa nhiệm
Multi-user Be able to be used by a number of people simultaneously Đa người dùng
*Terminolgies consisting of Adjective+Noun:
These compounds consist of an Adjective and a noun of which
Adjective takes functions as Classifier and the Noun (thing) For instance:
Acoustic coupler an interface device for coupling electrical signals by acoustical means—usually into and out of a telephone
Distributed system a number of independent computers linked by a network
Abbreviation terms are shortened words or phrases commonly used in written and spoken communication, particularly in the weather field, to conserve time and space These terms can consist of the initial letters of multiple words or just a single word This study aims to present some of the most widely accepted abbreviation terms utilized in the IT field.
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the electronic circuitry in a computer that executes instructions from programs by performing essential arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output (I/O) operations In Vietnamese, the term for CPU is "bộ xử lý trung tâm."
“Bộ xử lý trung tâm”
A personal computer (PC), or "Máy tính cá nhân" in Vietnamese, is a versatile device designed for individual use, featuring a size and price that make it accessible to everyday users Unlike computers that require expert operation, PCs are intended for direct interaction by the end user, enhancing personal productivity and convenience.
Random Access Memory (RAM), or "Bộ nhớ truy cập tùy ý" in Vietnamese, is a type of computer data storage that enables quick reading and writing of data items It allows access to data at nearly the same speed, regardless of where the data is physically located within the memory, making it essential for efficient computing performance.
Following is the list of common IT abbreviations:
CPU Central Processing Unit Bộ xử lý trung tâm
PC Personal computer Máy tính cá nhân
PDF Portable document format Định dạng tài liệu di động HTTP Hypertext transfer protocol Giao thức truyền tải siêu văn bản
LAN Local area network Mạng máy tính cục bộ
URL Uniform resource locator Định dạng tài nguyên thống nhất
USB Universal serial bus Bộ nhớ ngoài
RAM Random access memory Bộ nhớ truy cập tùy ý
ROM Read only memory Bộ nhớ trong
VGA Video graphics array Thiết bị đồ họa
WWW World wide web Mạng lưới toàn cầu
TECHNIQUES APPLIED IN THE TRANSLATION OF
Shift or transposition translation
Transposition is a widely used translation strategy for compound terms, involving a grammatical shift from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) This procedure encompasses both "automatic translation" and "rank-shift translation," facilitating effective communication across languages.
The change in the word order is named “Automatic Translation”
“ Source ” is the place something comes from or starts at, or the cause of something, its Vietnamese equivalent is “Nguồn”
“ Code ” is the symbolic arrangement of data or instructions in a computer program or the set of such instructions and its Vietnamese equivalent is
Source code, known as "Mã nguồn" in Vietnamese, refers to a text listing of commands that are compiled or assembled into an executable computer program This translation highlights a shift in the position of the nouns between English and Vietnamese.
Application system Phần mềm ứng dụng
In English, the term "Application" precedes the noun "system," whereas in Vietnamese, the order is reversed, placing "Application" after the noun.
The application of automatic shift in translation allows for a flexible and natural conversion of terms from English to Vietnamese, eliminating the need for additional expressions This strategy simplifies the translation process for translators, helping them manage redundant or extra words with ease.
The following examples are also translated with the application of this strategy:
Circuit board A thin plate on which chips and other electronic components are attached
Information system an organized system for the collection, organization, storage and communication of information
Computer science the study of the theory, experimentation, and engineering that form the basis for the design and use of computers
Core memory A common form of random access memory
The other case of “shift translation” called “Rank-shift translation”, also involves the change in the grammar from SL to TL Taking an example
Union catalog……… Mục lục liên hợp
In the source language (SL), the term "Union catalog" consists of two nouns; however, when translated into the target language (TL), the noun "Union" transforms into a verb This grammatical shift highlights the differences in language structure between SL and TL.
TL, translator will easily deal with these terms
Mô phỏng mạch
Translation by paraphrase using unrelated words
Paraphrase is one of many ways that facilitates translators to produce the adequate lexical equivalents It is stated by Baker, M (1932:
38) that this strategy tends to be used when the concept expressed by the source item, particularly the item in question is semantically complex
This strategy is utilized for translating Information Technology terms that lack direct equivalents in the target language It involves modifying a superordinate term or unpacking the meaning of the original terminology, especially when dealing with semantically complex items.
For instance, in the term “Mainframe computer”, if word for word translation strategy is applied, the word “mainframe” will be translated as
The term "khung chính" is accurately translated into Vietnamese as "Máy tính lớn," where the word "lớn" effectively aids in enhancing reader comprehension Below is a compilation of information technology terms translated into Vietnamese using a similar approach.
Refrigeration system Hệ thống làm mát
Translation of abbreviation by using loan words plus explanation
An abbreviation is a concise form of a word or phrase, consisting of letters derived from the original term This technique is particularly beneficial for translators addressing new concepts, culturally specific items, and buzzwords for a Vietnamese audience Utilizing loan words is an effective strategy for terms with foreign origins or those lacking equivalents in the target language When incorporating a loan word, it is advisable to provide an explanation for clarity.
USB is a widely used interface that facilitates communication between devices and host controllers, such as personal computers It connects various peripheral devices, including digital cameras, mice, keyboards, printers, scanners, media devices, external hard drives, and flash drives Due to its versatility and ability to support electrical power, USB has effectively replaced numerous interfaces, including parallel and serial ports.
USB (Universal Serial Bus) là thiết bị hỗ trợ giao tiếp giữa các thiết bị ngoại vi và máy chủ như máy tính cá nhân Nó cho phép kết nối các phụ kiện như máy ảnh kỹ thuật số, chuột, bàn phím, máy in, máy quét và ổ cứng với máy tính Với tính năng sử dụng đa dạng và khả năng hỗ trợ nguồn điện, USB đang dần thay thế các thiết bị kết nối truyền thống như cổng song song và cổng nối tiếp.
In the above example, it can be seen that USB is translated in both
Using the initials "USB" in the target language (TL) enhances clarity and convenience for readers, avoiding lengthy explanations and unnecessary repetition However, for those unfamiliar with the field, understanding the meaning of USB may pose a challenge, as it represents a compound term.
“Universal serial bus” which is translated into Vietnamese as “Chuẩn kết nối tuần tự đa dụng”
AAT Average access time Thời gian truy cập trung bình
ACT Access control template Hệ thống kiếm soát ra vào điện tử
AP Access point Điểm truy cập
BBS Bulletin board system Hệ thống bảng thông báo
Mạng băng thông rộng
Quản lý trải nghiệm khách hàng
DIFFICULTIES IN TRANSLATING IT TERMS
Difficulties
Translation is a challenging field that demands dedication from learners and researchers It requires a commitment to continuous study and the pursuit of knowledge across various disciplines in everyday life.
Translating specialized fields such as Information Technology presents significant challenges due to the complexity of technical terminology Researchers often encounter various obstacles when attempting to accurately translate IT terms, highlighting the intricacies involved in this specialized translation process.
English and Vietnamese exhibit significant linguistic differences, particularly in vocabulary and grammatical structures This complexity makes it challenging for translators to select appropriate words To ensure accurate translations, translators must diligently expand their vocabulary in both languages, achieving a level of proficiency that allows them to choose the right words in various contexts A comprehensive understanding of the denotations and connotations of words is essential for effective translation.
Translators can easily apply a word-for-word strategy to translate terms like "core memory" into Vietnamese as "Bộ nhớ lõi" by simply translating each word and adjusting the order However, translating more specific terms like "cache" requires a different approach, as it may not have a direct equivalent in the target language.
IT term, the translator cannot just look over its usual meaning as “nơi giấu, nơi dự trữ” but considers the technical meaning “Bộ nhớ đệm” instead
Translators must exercise caution when faced with ambiguous terms to preserve connotative meanings To achieve this, they should adopt a flexible approach to word choice rather than relying solely on mechanical translations from English-Vietnamese dictionaries.
Choosing the right structure in translation is challenging, as it requires selecting the most effective word order to ensure that the translation sounds natural and coherent.
A significant challenge faced by translators is the insufficient knowledge of their mother tongue in relation to information technology This lack of proficiency hinders effective translation, as many translators prioritize translating from Vietnamese to English rather than vice versa Consequently, they struggle to translate smoothly from English to Vietnamese, often unable to find appropriate words in their native language, despite having a clear understanding of the original document.
Suggested solutions
Mastering language knowledge is essential, particularly in translation skills and vocabulary Each term is linked to its specific concept, making accurate translation crucial To effectively name a term, one must translate it based on its underlying concept, highlighting the importance of linguistic understanding.
Translating terms, especially in the field of IT, often cannot rely on direct equivalence between English and Vietnamese To effectively navigate this challenge, it is essential to go beyond simple word-for-word translation and acquire a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
To enhance their understanding of IT terminology, translators should read Vietnamese books and newspapers focused on information technology for smoother comprehension and more natural translations Additionally, gathering valuable information from relevant websites is crucial, and utilizing a specialized dictionary is highly recommended for every translator.
CONCLUSION
Limitations of the study
Information technology is increasingly prevalent in today's society, making it essential for students, especially those in foreign language departments, to familiarize themselves with relevant terminology This study aims to equip these students with foundational knowledge and translation methods, easing their application of IT concepts By examining strategies for non-equivalence and equivalence translation, along with pertinent examples, readers can enhance their translation skills effectively.
However, this sector is quite large with many sub fields that require deeper research and due to the limitation of time and knowledge, mistakes and shortcomings are unavoidable.
Suggestions for further study
As the global landscape evolves, the field of Information Technology continues to advance rapidly, highlighting the critical need for high-quality translation and interpretation services This growing demand underscores the importance of conducting further research on translation practices from various perspectives to ensure effective communication in this dynamic sector.
1 Baker, M (1992), A Course book on translation ( London Routledge)
2 Bell, R T (1991), Translation and translating: Theory and Practice (Applied Linguistic and Language Study), London: Longman Group Ltd
3 Brumfit, C (1979), The communicative approach to language teaching
4 Catford J C A Linguistic Theory of Translation, Oxford, Oxford
5 House, J (2015) Translation Quality Assessment: Past and Present
6 Houbert, F (1998) Translation as a communication process
7 Hutchinson, T & Water, A (1987) English for Specific Purposes : A learning – concreted approach ( Cambridge University Press)
8 Lê Thị Hồng Hạnh, Tiếng anh chuyên ngành công nghệ thông tin học viện bưu chính viễn thông
9 Newmark, P (1982) Approaches to Translation, New York: Pergamum
10 Nida, E A 1959 “Principles of Translation as Exemplified by Bible Translating,”
11 Quirk, R & Greenbaum, S (1987), A University grammar of English
12 Robison, P, (1991), ESP Today: a Practitioner’s Guide, Hemel
13 Savory, T (1969) The art of translation London: Jonathan Cape Ltd
14 Strevens, P (1988) ESP after twenty years: A re-appraisal In M
Tickoo (Ed.), ESP: State of the Art
15 Tony Dudley – Evans and Maggie Jo St John (1998) Developments in
English for Specific purpose: A multi-disciplinary approach ( Cambridge
16 Valeontis K & e Mantzari (2006), The Linguistic of Terminology: Principles and Methods of Term Formation, 1 st Athens International
Conference on Translation and Interpretation Translation: Between Art and Social Science, pp.13 – 14 October 2006
Internet source: https://www.techopedia.com/definition/626/information-technology-it https://www.dataprise.com/it-glossary http://www.consp.com/it-information-technology-terminology-dictionary
Vocabulary)
Translation sample)
A network consists of interconnected devices, such as PCs and printers, known as nodes, which enable users to share data, programs, and hardware resources It comprises two key components: the physical infrastructure that connects the devices and the software that facilitates communication between them.
Network topology refers to the physical arrangement of nodes and their connections, while the software encompasses the protocols that govern data exchange formats between systems Essentially, the cables and transceivers enable computers to connect and communicate, whereas the software serves as the language facilitating their interaction over the network.
Cables primarily consist of transceivers, which are essential hardware components for sending and receiving network signals Currently, the most commonly used transceivers are Token Ring and Local Talk Token Ring is particularly prevalent for connecting PCs to IBM mainframes, with most Token Ring adapters capable of transmitting data at a speed of 16 megabits per second.