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Chinese Set Phrases 1

(2008-07-03 10:52:28) 下一个
We have seen a lot of well-established Chinese Set Phrases being translated into English.  Although the translations appear  to be reflecting original meanings, more than often they are in "Chinglish", not how American really say it.  I am sharing what I have found (examples):

1. 人山人海
Chinglish:
People mountain people sea.

English:
1) There is a large/huge crowd of people.
2) A sea of faces.
    For example:  Looking out upon the sea of faces, Mr Green delivered a touching speech. (看着一片人山人海的听众,格林先生发表了一篇动人的演说。)

2. 天下没有不散的宴席
Chinglish:
There are no feasts in the world that do not break up at last.

English:
1) All good things come to an end.
2) Eventually, even close friends drift apart.

3. 一箭双雕
Chinglish:
One arrow, two birds.

English:
Kill two birds with one stone.

4. 挂羊头,卖狗肉
Chinglish:
The store hangs up a sheep's head and sells dog meat.

English:
1) The store uses false advertising. (这家店打了虚假广告。)
2) They say one thing and do another. (他们说一套做一套。)

5. 一言既出,驷马难追
Chinglish:
One word lets loose and four horses will fail to catch it.

English:
1) A word once let go cannot be recalled.
2) You can't take back what you've said. (你说出去的话,就不能再收回来。)

6. 祸从口出,言多必失
Chinglish:
The mouth is the gate of misfortune and evil.

English:
1) Careless talk leads to trouble.
2) The less said the better.
3) Loose lips sink ships
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