The English Translation of Huangdi Neijing by Maoshing Ni from the Perspective of the Thick Translation

Authors

  • Xueqian Jiang

    Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, China

  • Minghui Long

    Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i6.9040
Received: 10 March 2025 | Revised: 14 April 2025 | Accepted: 23 April 2025 | Published Online: 4 June 2025

Abstract

The global interest in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) continues to rise, and the international dissemination of TCM classics has become increasingly significant. The Huangdi Neijing, as a core book within the TCM knowledge system, holds immense theoretical and practical value. Its accurate and in-depth translation is vital for advancing the development of TCM abroad. Due to cultural differences and constraints, the medical concepts and knowledge in the Huangdi Neijing may be challenging for readers from diverse cultural backgrounds to comprehend and accept. Therefore, additional interpretation of the original text is inevitable, which embodiess the thick translation of the original text. Thick translation goes beyond mere linguistic conversion; it involves enriching the translation with background information, knowledge explanations, and logical cohesion to help readers better understand the original text. This paper, guided by the theory of thick translation, examines the application of thick translation in Maoshing Ni's English version of the Huangdi Neijing. By summarizing and categorizing the features and types of thick translation in this English version, , this study endeavors to demonstrate the role of thick translation in presenting the uniqueness of TCM knowledge in the global context, revealing how thick translation enhances the accessibility and acceptance of TCM classics in the global context, bridges the gap between TCM and other cultures, and contributes to the broader dissemination and development of TCM worldwide,with an aim to provide valuable insights for the effective international promotion of TCM.

Keywords:

Huangdi Neijing; Traditional Chinese Medicine Knowledge; Thick Translation

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How to Cite

Jiang, X., & Long, M. (2025). The English Translation of Huangdi Neijing by Maoshing Ni from the Perspective of the Thick Translation. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(6), 219–232. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i6.9040