Key factors influencing the TCM nomenclature in international standards

Xin-Xin Ye; Yi-Tian Li; Zhen Sang

doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105516

Key factors influencing the TCM nomenclature in international standards

Pharmacol Res. 2021 Aug:170:105516. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105516. Epub 2021 Feb 23.

Authors

Xin-Xin Ye¹, Yi-Tian Li¹, Zhen Sang²

Affiliations

¹ Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
² Institute of TCM International Standardization, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China. Electronic address: mscsh2009@gmail.com.

PMID: 33636350
DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105516

Abstract

Amid the globalization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the English translation of related texts is in full swing. Several representative international organizations in fields regarding standardization and healthcare, one after another, have published a series of international standards for TCM nomenclature. With these efforts, the internationalization of TCM has been dramatically advanced. When selecting parallel texts for reference, translators need to be aware of key factors influencing the English translation of TCM terms in international standards, including the distinctive characteristics of this discipline and relevant influences of international standard makers. In this way, proper standards and reasonable English expression can be chosen for specific terms, thus stimulating the effective use of TCM nomenclature with consensus.

Keywords: English translation; International standards; TCM nomenclature; Traditional Chinese medicine.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Consensus
Humans
International Cooperation
Medicine, Chinese Traditional / standards*
Terminology as Topic*
Translating*
Vocabulary, Controlled*