A study on specialized terminologies translation for information technology

INTRODUCTION

Rationale

Information technology is essential in today's society, significantly influencing various aspects of life and a nation's development Vietnam, as a developing country, is striving to advance in information technology to keep pace with other nations However, the vastness of this field, filled with numerous specific terminologies, demands deep knowledge and ongoing research from learners Consequently, translating IT terms from the source language to the target language presents challenges for students.

Many Vietnamese learners struggle with translating IT terms, and I often find myself confused by them as well It is essential for both myself and other learners to build a solid foundation of linguistic and cultural knowledge in both our native language and foreign languages My interest in translation skills, particularly in the realm of IT terminology, drives my research Studying this topic not only enhances my translation abilities but also deepens my understanding of technical translations.

Aim of the study

The research on the translation of specialized terminologies in Information Technology seeks to identify effective translation strategies and procedures while highlighting frequently used terms within the IT sector.

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 information technology terminology by effectively bridging written text and visual presentations, facilitating better translation and comprehension of complex concepts.

Scope of the study

Studying IT terminology demands significant time and effort, making it challenging to achieve complete understanding Due to constraints in time and knowledge, errors and gaps are likely to occur 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, offering valuable insights into the problem and facilitating the development of innovative ideas.

This study compiles English-Vietnamese terms sourced from dictionaries and online resources, providing illustrative examples 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 consists of four chapters Chapter I provides a theoretical overview, covering the definition, methods, and procedures of translation, with a specific emphasis on English for Specific Purposes (ESP) translation Chapter II delves into the investigation of English-Vietnamese translation practices.

This article explores IT terminology and its Vietnamese equivalents, highlighting popular constructions and commonly used terms Chapter III delves into various techniques utilized in the translation of these terms, providing insights into effective translation practices in the IT field.

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 a linguistic process that involves re-contextualizing a text from one language to another This operation is significantly influenced by various extra-linguistic factors and conditions, highlighting the complex interaction between language and its broader context.

‘ inner’ linguistic-textual and ‘outer’ extra-linguistic, contextual factors that makes translation such a complex phenomenon (House.J,2015)

 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 message's content, formal characteristics, and the original's 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 process that involves re-contextualizing a text from one language into another This operation is significantly affected by various extra-linguistic factors and conditions, highlighting the complex interplay between language and context in the translation process.

‘ inner’ linguistic-textual and ‘outer’ extra-linguistic, contextual factors that makes translation such a complex phenomenon (House.J,2015)

 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 maintaining the original message's content, formal characteristics, and intended roles (Bell, 1991).

Translation involves interpreting the meaning of a source text in one language and creating an equivalent target text in another language that conveys the same message, as defined by Nida (1959).

Translation does not adhere to a single, guaranteed method; rather, it varies based on individual strategies influenced by factors like the translation's purpose, the target audience, and the types of texts 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 In this process, SL grammatical structures are translated into their closest TL equivalents, while lexical words are often taken out of context This foundational step in both communication and semantic translation highlights potential issues that need to be addressed during 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 deviation from the source language norms The goal is to remain entirely true to the intentions and textual expression of the original writer.

Semantic translation prioritizes the aesthetic qualities of the source language (SL) text, allowing for compromises on meaning when necessary to ensure that elements like assonance, wordplay, and repetition flow smoothly in the final version.

This translation method prioritizes creative freedom, often applied to plays and poetry, where themes, characters, and plots are maintained while adapting the source language culture to the target language culture Unfortunately, the common practice of literal translations followed by rewrites from established dramatists or poets has led to many subpar adaptations; however, some adaptations have successfully revitalized period plays.

Free translation focuses on conveying the meaning of the source language (SL) in the translator's own words, rather than adhering closely to the original text This approach often results in a paraphrase that is longer than the original, allowing the target language (TL) text to sound more natural However, the downside of this method is that it can become too casual, potentially obscuring the original message and making it harder to understand.

Idiomatic translation focuses on conveying the meaning of colloquialisms and idioms rather than their literal translations This approach allows the translator to preserve the essence of the original expression while adapting it to the target language's cultural context.

The translation aims to convey the original context accurately while ensuring that the language and content are easily understood by the audience As Newmark (1982) emphasizes, the translation must also honor the structure of the source text, as it serves as the foundational material for the translator's work.

In her 1992 work, Baker explores the concept of equivalence within the translation process, addressing various aspects of translation and integrating both linguistic and communicative approaches She identifies key distinctions that highlight the complexities involved in achieving effective translation.

 Equivalence that can appear at word level and above word level

In translation, Baker emphasizes that a bottom-up approach prioritizes word-level equivalence as the initial focus for translators When analyzing the source text (ST), translators examine words as individual units to identify direct equivalents in the target language (TL) It is crucial to understand that a single word may carry different meanings across languages and can be viewed as a more complex unit or morpheme Therefore, translators must consider various factors, including number, gender, and tense, when evaluating a single word's translation.

English for special purpose

According to Strevens (1988: 1), English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a distinct subset of special purpose language teaching Defining ESP poses challenges and has attracted significant interest from researchers, as various scholars emphasize different aspects that characterize this specialized form of language instruction.

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 on 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 revised definition suggests that ESP is not limited to a specific discipline or demographic, such as age or proficiency level According to Hutchinson and Waters (1987), ESP is fundamentally an "approach" to language teaching that centers on the learner's motivations, emphasizing the crucial question, "Why does this learner need to learn a foreign language?"

Learners with a specific purpose understand their learning needs, particularly in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses For instance, students in Industry and Commerce expect their English education to be relevant to their professional roles, often enrolling in courses due to job requirements rather than personal interest As Brumfit (1979) states, ESP courses focus directly on the functional purposes for which learners need English, highlighting the importance of practical application in their careers.

English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is designed with clear objectives, focusing on the successful execution of specific occupational or educational roles As Strevens (1988) states, the course is tailored to meet learners' specific needs and purposes, ensuring an effective learning experience through targeted teaching methods.

There are many types of ESP, according to Hutchinson & Waters (1987:

181) “ESP is just one branch of EFL (English as a Foreign Language)/

English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a key area within English Language Teaching (ELT), encompassing two primary branches: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and English for Occupational/Vocational Purposes (EOP/EVP/VESL) According to Hutchinson and Waters (1987), these categories highlight the tailored approach of ESP to meet the specific language needs of learners in academic and professional contexts.

Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) is categorized within the English for Specific Purposes (ESP) framework, as outlined by Robinson (1991) He presents two interpretations of the ESP family tree: the first version distinguishes between English for Occupational Purposes (EOP), which addresses work-related needs and training, and English for Academic Purposes (EAP), which focuses on academic study requirements The second version expands this classification into three branches—academic, professional, and vocational—highlighting the interplay between work and study-related needs in ESP.

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 types of English instruction: English for Occupational Purposes (EOP) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) EOP focuses on equipping individuals, such as hotel staff and air hostesses, with the necessary English communication skills to perform effectively in their jobs In contrast, EAP is designed for those pursuing academic goals, helping them develop the language skills needed for success in educational 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, English is primarily taught as a foreign language at universities, yet graduates often utilize their language skills for various professional activities According to Hutchinson (1987), the distinction between academic and vocational English is not clear-cut, as individuals frequently engage in both work and study simultaneously, leading to the use of language learned in academic contexts in their future careers.

Technical translation is a specialized form of translation focused on documents created by technical writers, such as owner’s manuals and user guides It encompasses 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 characterized by its potential to be non-cultural and universal, as the advantages of technology transcend language barriers Consequently, terms in technical translation must be accurately translated In contrast, institutional translation is inherently cultural, where terms are typically transferred unless associated with international organizations Despite their differing perspectives, two authors agree that technical translation is defined by its focus on specialized terminology.

Terminology

Up to now there are various definitions of terminology by many linguists

Terminology encompasses two primary meanings: first, it refers to the discipline focused on the principles and methods that govern the study of concepts and their designations—such as terms, names, and symbols—across various subject fields, along with the tasks of collecting, processing, and managing relevant data Second, it denotes the specific set of terms that constitute the specialized language of a particular subject area.

Terminology refers to the study and practice focused on collecting, describing, processing, and presenting terms—lexical items specific to specialized fields across one or more languages (Gibbon, 1998).

Terminology, as a unique component of a language's lexical system, possesses distinct characteristics Linguists agree that effective terminology should embody qualities such as accuracy, systematic organization, international relevance, national significance, and widespread acceptance.

Terminology must prioritize accuracy, clearly defining specific concepts to prevent misunderstandings Each term within a professional framework should represent a singular concept, as the meaning of a term goes beyond its individual components, incorporating unique linguistic signals New Mark (1998) highlighted that concept-words can have varying meanings across different technologies Consequently, when developing a term in a particular field, it is essential to consider potential homophones and synonyms that may arise in linguistic contexts.

Normal words exhibit polysemy and synonymy, leading to varying meanings based on context, while terminology is designed to maintain a precise and fixed meaning within specialized fields This distinction highlights the importance of using clear and consistent terminology to avoid ambiguity in professional communication.

The term "school" can have multiple meanings in everyday language, reflecting its versatility in different contexts, while in the realm of Information Technology, "Java" is specifically defined as a general-purpose programming language that is concurrent, class-based, and object-oriented, with a focus on minimizing 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

The term "Java" exemplifies a word that resists modifications such as prefixes, suffixes, or alterations in meaning to indicate its plural form or antonyms However, when viewed through the lens of systematism, it is possible to transform the term's form, albeit in a unique manner.

The second criterion of a scientific term emphasizes the importance of systematism within terminology Each term occupies a specific position within a terminological system and derives its meaning through relationships with other terms When isolated from its system, a term's meaning becomes unclear While terminologists have differing views on terminology's characteristics—some highlighting systematic formation and others focusing on content—it is essential to recognize that both content and expression form are integral A term cannot be defined independently of its system, as its position within that system is crucial for understanding its meaning.

In the field of Information Technology, it is common to use specific suffixes to denote the roles of individuals involved in various documents Suffixes such as -or, -ee, -er, and -ist are frequently employed in IT terminology to clearly identify the positions and responsibilities of people within the industry.

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 represent common scientific concepts and facilitate global cooperation and exchanges in science and technology Globalization has led to the widespread use of terminology across various languages, accelerating the advancement of international science Consequently, many terms have been internationalized in different languages, though each language may adhere to distinct principles based on cultural contexts Vietnamese terminology, in particular, showcases unique characteristics such as nationalism and popularity.

Terminology is a unique linguistic unit specific to a profession, deeply rooted in the national language In Vietnam, terminology must reflect Vietnamese culture and the distinct characteristics of the Vietnamese language It is essential for these terms to resonate with the Vietnamese people, encompassing both lexicological and grammatical aspects.

Terminology is essential for facilitating scientific and technological advancement for everyone As a key aspect of linguistics, it significantly contributes to the progress of science, making it vital that terminology is accessible and understandable in reading, writing, speaking, and memorization.

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 defining characteristics of the concepts they represent to ensure accurate reference They should be concise to prevent ambiguity and must adhere to the language's phonological and morphological rules Additionally, terms need to follow standard word-formation practices, allowing for necessary composition and derivation Importantly, a term's meaning should remain context-free Term creation, encompassing both primary and secondary formations, is influenced by various factors When a new concept emerges, primary term formation occurs, while secondary term formation involves the monolingual revision of existing terminology or the adaptation of terms from one linguistic community to another.

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 language 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 and convey meaning They serve as essential elements of language, allowing us to represent ideas and enhance our understanding.

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 range of roles and responsibilities, including ensuring system and data security, maintaining network functionality, and managing databases Key personnel include data input specialists, programmers, and decision-makers like Chief Information Officers (CIOs), who determine the operational direction and procurement strategies for the IT department.

Information Technology (IT) encompasses the management and transfer of various forms of data, 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 permeates new areas, demonstrating its growing influence in modern society.

Language in Information Technology

A language serves as a system for communication, utilizing sounds, symbols, and words to convey meanings, ideas, and thoughts Distinctions between languages often arise from factors such as country boundaries, cultural demographics, and historical context Each nation has developed its own unique linguistic style through the blending of cultures and environmental influences English stands out as the most widely used language across various sectors, including science, technology, marketing, and business Its significance is particularly notable in the field of Information Technology, which plays a crucial role in countries worldwide, including Vietnam.

In Information Technology, many terms overlap with those in fields like science and marketing, often sharing similar meanings However, certain technical jargon is unique to the IT sector and requires contextual understanding for accurate translation To effectively convey these specialized terms, it is essential to have a solid grasp of the underlying language and knowledge of related areas such as commerce, business, and economics.

The popular construction of IT terms

The language of Information Technology is rich with terminology, primarily consisting of single and compound terms This article aims to familiarize readers with some of the most common IT terms used in the industry.

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 field of Information Technology, these compound terms are frequently utilized and play a significant role in communication and understanding.

*Terminologies consisting of Classifier (Noun) + thing:

This article discusses specific terminologies that consist of two nouns, where the first noun acts as a classifier, helping to differentiate the second noun from similar concepts within the same category The following list features information technology terms that exemplify this classification method.

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 the weather field to enhance efficiency in written and spoken communication These terms often consist of the initial letters of multiple words or even just a single word This article will explore 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 responsible for executing instructions from computer programs It performs essential operations, including arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output (I/O) tasks as dictated by these instructions In Vietnamese, CPU is referred to as "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, capabilities, and price that make it accessible to everyday users rather than requiring the expertise of a technician.

Random Access Memory (RAM), known in Vietnamese as "Bộ nhớ truy cập tùy ý," is a type of computer data storage that enables quick reading and writing of data items This technology allows for nearly instantaneous access to data, regardless of its physical location within the memory, making it essential for efficient computing.

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 shift in grammatical structure from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) This procedure encompasses both "automatic translation" and "rank-shift translation," allowing for effective adaptation of meaning 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 in Vietnamese as "Mã nguồn," refers to a text listing of commands that are compiled or assembled into an executable computer program Notably, the positioning of the nouns differs between English and Vietnamese translations.

Application system Phần mềm ứng dụng

In English, the term "Application" precedes the noun "system," while in Vietnamese, the order is reversed, placing "Application" after the noun.

The use of automatic shift in translation allows for a flexible and natural conversion of English terms into Vietnamese, eliminating the need for added expressions This strategy simplifies the translation process for translators, helping them navigate redundant or extraneous 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” to indicate this strategy

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 either modifying a superordinate term or unpacking the meaning of the original terminology This approach is especially effective for semantically complex items, ensuring clarity and comprehension in the translation process.

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." The use of the word "lớn" enhances readers' understanding of the term 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 version of a word or phrase, formed from its letters This technique is particularly beneficial for translators addressing new concepts, culturally specific items, and buzzwords for a Vietnamese audience The use of loanwords is an effective strategy for terms with foreign origins or those lacking equivalents in the target language When incorporating a loanword, providing an explanation is advisable to enhance understanding.

USB is a versatile interface that facilitates communication between devices and host controllers like 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 extensive functionality and ability to support electrical power, USB has largely replaced older interfaces such as 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, cho phép kết nối các phụ kiện như máy ảnh kỹ thuật số, chuột, bàn phím, máy in, máy quét và ổ cứng Với tính năng đa dạng và khả năng cung cấp nguồn điện, USB ngày càng 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 translated texts enhances clarity and convenience for readers, avoiding lengthy explanations and unnecessary repetition However, for those unfamiliar with the field, understanding the term can be challenging, as "USB" represents a compound word that may not be immediately recognizable.

“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 discipline that demands dedication from learners and researchers alike To excel in this field, individuals must not only engage in rigorous study but also continually enhance their knowledge across various aspects of everyday life.

Translating specialized fields such as Information Technology presents significant challenges and complexities Researchers often encounter numerous difficulties when attempting to accurately translate IT terminology.

English and Vietnamese exhibit significant linguistic differences, particularly in vocabulary and grammar, which can complicate word selection in translation To produce accurate translations, translators must diligently build their vocabulary in both languages A comprehensive understanding of a word's denotations and connotations is essential for translators to choose the most appropriate terms in various contexts.

Translating technical terms can vary in complexity; for instance, the term "core memory" can be easily translated into Vietnamese as "Bộ nhớ lõi" using a straightforward word-for-word approach In this case, the translator simply translates each word and adjusts the order using automatic translation methods However, translating more specialized terms like "cache" poses additional challenges, requiring a deeper understanding of context and usage.

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 prevent losing connotative meanings To achieve this, they should adopt a flexible approach to word choice rather than relying solely on a mechanical translation from an English-Vietnamese dictionary.

Selecting the appropriate structure in translation is challenging, as it requires the translator to determine the optimal word order to ensure the translation sounds natural and coherent.

A significant challenge in translation is the inadequate proficiency in one's mother tongue concerning Information Technology terminology This lack of focus on enhancing mother tongue skills hinders effective translation, particularly for Vietnamese translators who often find it easier to translate from Vietnamese to English Conversely, translating from English to Vietnamese poses difficulties, as translators struggle to identify appropriate words in their native language, even when they fully comprehend the source material.

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