Abstract：Abstract: Western translation theories and traditional Chinese translation theories generally represent different theoretical paradigms, and their corresponding discourse patterns are markedly different too. During the course of formulation and development of China’s translation theories, a proper understanding of the value of Chinese and foreign translation theory resources and efficient use of such resources are closely related to the future development of China’s translation theories. Starting with analysis of the theoretical paradigm and discourse pattern of traditional Chinese translation theories, this paper explores and expounds the impacts of “Xiang thinking” on traditional Chinese translation theories. The study finds the impacts as follows: taking “wu” (comprehending) as its thinking mode, traditional Chinese translation theories is characterized as holistic and obscure. The discourse of traditional Chinese translation theories is typical of “words not expressing the author’s full thoughts”, intuitiveness, judgments and conclusions. This study sheds light on a novel interpretation with regard to the nature of traditional Chinese translation theories, thus propelling the advancement in research into China’s translation theories.
Key words: traditional Chinese translation theories; theory paradigm; discourse pattern; “Xiang thinking”
