Comparative Study of TCM Terminology Standards under Adaptive Selection Translation Theory

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as a life science rooted in unique philosophical principles, offers significant intellectual property advantages and substantial economic potential, positioning it as a growing area of global interest. As key instruments in representing its economic value, the international standards for TCM terminology have garnered widespread attention from the global community. International organizations, experts, scholars, and governmental bodies have engaged in this process, yielding valuable outcomes. In 2007, the World Health Organization released the "International Standard Terminology for Traditional Medicine" (IST), while the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies simultaneously published the "Chinese-English Bilingual Standard for Basic TCM Terminology" (ISN). However, discrepancies in the translation of specific terms within these two standards have undermined the scientific accuracy of TCM and sparked new debates. As such, it has become imperative to unify TCM terminology standards to present a cohesive, authoritative voice for TCM on the global stage. Based on a classification of TCM terminology, this article employs a cyclic equidistant sampling method to extract 500 entries (excluding categories such as herbal medicine, prescriptions, and acupuncture) from the ISN. It then compares and analyzes these terms against their counterparts in the IST. Drawing on the Theory of Adaptive Selection in Translation, the paper investigates the various translations of key TCM concepts, including fundamental theories and diagnostic methods, from linguistic, cultural, and communicative perspectives. The study identifies optimal translation choices and proposes a comprehensive framework for TCM terminology translation, encapsulated by the principles of "One Shift," "Three Dimensions," and "Several Translation Methods." Given that TCM has its origins in China, China needs to take a leading role in the global efforts to establish international standards for traditional medicine, ensuring that the unique characteristics of TCM are fully reflected. By analyzing and comparing the two major international TCM terminology standards, this research aims to provide valuable insights that will guide future initiatives in the global standardization of TCM terminology.