Analysis and classification of the
terminology of Oriental medicine
T. Qalibekuly, Candidate of Philological Sciences,
PhD, Associate professor KazUIR & W named after
Abylai Khan
G.B. Murat, master`s student, KazUIR & W named
after Abylai Khan
KAZAKH ABLAI KHAN UNIVERSITY OF
INTERNATIONAL
RELATIONS AND WORLD LANGUAGES
Almaty 2023
—
This article analyzes and
classifies the terminology of traditional
oriental medicine in order to understand
its structure and features. The study is
based on materials from Chinese and
English and includes both theoretical and
practical aspects. The results of the
study will allow a better understanding of
the peculiarities of the terminology of
traditional oriental medicine and provide
a more accurate translation and
interpretation of these terms.
Abstract
Keywords: traditional oriental medicine,
terminology,
terminological
analysis,
classification of terms, cultural and linguistic
aspects, translation of terms, interpretation
of terms, structure of terminology, semantic
characteristics of terms, grammatical
features,
terminological
base,
communication in medicine, translation of
medical terminology, comparative analysis,
traditional oriental medicine in Chinese,
traditional oriental medicine in English.
analysis, classification, Chinese, English.
1
INTRODUCTION
Oriental medicine is an important
component of medical practice in many
countries and represents a centuries-old
tradition and unique approaches to health
and treatment. It includes various systems,
including traditional Chinese medicine,
which has its own concepts, methods of
diagnosis and treatment, as well as special
terminology. However, in order to
effectively understand and transfer
knowledge about traditional oriental medicine, it
is necessary to understand its terminology and
the features of its compilation and formation.
The topic of this scientific article is "Analysis
and classification of the terminology of oriental
medicine".
Terminology is an important tool for
communication in scientific fields and serves as
a basis for the transfer of specialized
knowledge. In the case of traditional oriental
medicine, terminology plays a special role, as it
not only reflects the concepts and principles of
this system of medicine, but also reflects
cultural and historical aspects.
The terminology system of traditional oriental
medicine can be complex and multifaceted,
including various categories of terms reflecting
aspects of physiology, pathology, diagnosis,
treatment, etc. In addition, the terms of
traditional oriental medicine may have their own
specific meanings that are different from those
generally accepted in other medical systems,
and their translation and interpretation into other
languages can be difficult tasks.
The purpose of this article is to analyze and
classify the terminology of traditional oriental
medicine based on Chinese and English
materials. The study will be based on the
analysis of literature and sources containing the
terms of traditional oriental medicine, as well as
on the application of analysis and classification
methods to systematize the terminology. Based
on the data collected, a comparison of terms in
Chinese and English will be made in order to
identify correspondences, differences and
features of the translation and interpretation of
the terms of traditional oriental medicine.
The theoretical part of the article will be
devoted to a review of the literature and
sources related to the terminology of
traditional oriental medicine and its
features in Chinese and English.
Theoretical approaches to the analysis and
classification of terms, as well as the
features of their translation and
interpretation will be considered. The
theoretical part of the article will be
devoted to a review of the literature and
sources related to the terminology of
traditional oriental medicine and its
features in Chinese and English.
Theoretical approaches to the analysis and
classification of terms, as well as the
features of their translation and
interpretation will be considered.
The practical part of the article will include
a description of the methodology and
procedure for collecting and analyzing
terminological units. An analysis of the
literature and sources in Chinese and
English containing the terms of traditional
oriental medicine will be carried out. Then
the classification of terms will be carried
out on the basis of their semantic and
grammatical characteristics.
Next, a comparison of terms in Chinese and
English will be carried out in order to
identify correspondences, differences and
features of translation and interpretation.
Example terms will be analyzed and the
results of the comparison will be
presented. The conclusions of the article
will be based on the results of the analysis
and classification of the terminology of
traditional oriental medicine. The results
of the comparison of terms in Chinese and
English will be summed up and the
features of the translation and
interpretation of terms will be discussed.
Thus, this scientific article is aimed at a
deeper understanding of the terminology
of traditional oriental medicine and
invests in itself the potential for
developing standards for the translation
and interpretation of terms in this area.
This will improve the efficiency of
communication and knowledge sharing
between practitioners of Oriental
medicine, researchers, translators and
other stakeholders. The study of the
terminology of traditional oriental medicine is
important not only for the academic community,
but also for practicing medical professionals.
Understanding and correct use of terminology
reduces the risk of misunderstandings and errors
in diagnosis, treatment and education. However,
it should be noted that this article has its
limitations. First, it focuses on the analysis and
classification of terminology within Chinese and
English only. Other languages used in the
context of Oriental medicine are not considered
in this study. Secondly, the article is limited
only to the analysis of terminological units, and
does not include an analysis of the texts and
contexts in which these terms are used.
In conclusion, this article represents an important
step in the study of the terminology of
traditional oriental medicine. The analysis and
classification of terms allow for a deeper
understanding of the features of this medical
system, and also contribute to improved
communication and knowledge sharing in this
area. Further research in this area may include
expanding the analysis to other languages, as
well as taking into account the textual context in
the study of the terminology of traditional
oriental medicine.
1.1
REVIEW OF TRADITIONAL
ORIENTAL MEDICINE: HISTORY,
PRINCIPLES AND APPROACHES.
Traditional Oriental Medicine (ETM) is a system
of medical knowledge and practices that has
developed over thousands of years in East Asian
countries, including China, Japan, and Korea. It
is based on a unique philosophy, concepts of
health and balance, and the use of natural
therapies.
History of traditional oriental medicine: The
history of TVM is rooted in antiquity and is
closely connected with the development of
Chinese culture and philosophy. One of the
most famous sources of traditional oriental
medicine is the Huangdi Neijing (Inner
Canonical Cave of the Yellow Emperor), which
was written around 200 BC. This text contains
information about health principles, diagnosis
and treatment based on the teachings of Taoism
and the concept of "Ren Shiu" (Life Force).
Principles of traditional oriental medicine:
TBM is based on the principle of balance
and harmony between the various aspects
of a person and his environment. The
focus of TBM is the concept of "Qi" (vital
energy), which permeates all life and
supports its functioning. Disease is seen as
a violation of balance and harmony in the
body, and treatment is aimed at restoring
this balance.
Approaches in traditional oriental medicine:
Traditional oriental medicine offers
various approaches to diagnosis and
treatment. One of the main methods of
diagnosis is the observation and analysis
of external signs such as tongue, pulse and
face. In addition, important diagnostic
methods are questions to the patient about
his state of health and the analysis of
medical histories.
In oriental medicine treatment, emphasis is
placed on the use of natural methods such
as herbs, acupuncture, massage, diet, and
exercises such as taijiquan and yoga. The
main goal of treatment is to restore
harmony and balance in the body by
eliminating the causes of the disease, and
not just the symptoms.
One of the main principles of traditional
oriental medicine is an individual
approach to each patient. The doctor takes
into account not only the physical
symptoms, but also the emotional state,
lifestyle and environment of the patient. It
is important to understand that the
approach of Eastern medicine may differ
from Western medicine and combination
treatments may be recommended for best
results.
In conclusion, traditional oriental medicine
is a unique healthcare system that has its
own history, principles and approaches to
diagnosis and treatment. Thanks to its
philosophical underpinnings and unique
methods, it continues to attract attention
and be used in many countries. It is
important to consider that traditional
oriental medicine does not replace modern
western medicine, but can be an effective
addition to it, helping to achieve balance
and harmony in the body.
1.2 THE ROLE OF TERMINOLOGY IN
TRADITIONAL ORIENTAL MEDICINE:
BASIC CONCEPTS AND TERMS.
Terminology plays an important role in
Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM) because it
provides an accurate and consistent
understanding of the basic concepts and terms
used in this medical system. We will review the
main concepts and terms that are widely used in
TCM and their meaning for medical
practitioners and researchers.
Basic concepts and terms in TVM:
Qi: A central concept in TBM, referring to the life
energy or force that pervades the body. Qi is
considered the main factor in maintaining health
and balance in the body.
Zhen Shi: This concept refers to the state of
harmony and balance between the various
aspects of the body, such as qi, blood, emotions
and organs. Ren Shiu is the main target of TBM,
and its violation is considered to be the cause of
diseases.
Meridians (Jingluo): Meridians are channels or
pathways through which Qi circulates
throughout the body. There are 12 main
meridians associated with the main organs, and
each meridian has its own functional role in the
body.
Acupoints: Acupuncture points are special points
on the meridians that are used to influence the
circulation of Qi in the body. Acupuncture is
one of the treatments in TBM, and accurate
knowledge of acupuncture points is an
important aspect for practitioners.
Balance of Yin and Yang: Yin and Yang are
opposite but interdependent and complementary
aspects in nature and the human body. The
balance between Yin and Yang is considered
key to maintaining health and preventing
disease.
Specificity of the terminology of Oriental Oriental
Medicine: cultural and linguistic aspects.
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1.3 SPECIFICITY OF THE TERMINOLOGY
OF ORIENTAL MEDICINE: CULTURAL
AND LINGUISTIC ASPECTS.
The terminology of Traditional Oriental
Medicine (TOM) has its own specifics,
which reflects both the cultural and
linguistic aspects of this medical system.
In this article, we will consider the
cultural and linguistic features of TBM
terminology and their importance for
understanding and interpreting this
medical practice.
own system of terms and expressions, which
may differ from Western medical terminology.
For example, terms related to meridians,
acupuncture points, and energy concepts have
specific names in languages used in TVM, such
as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and others.
Understanding and proper use of these unique
terms requires knowledge of the relevant
language. Translation and equivalence of terms:
Difficulties arise when translating TVM terms
into other languages, since some concepts and
expressions can be difficult to convey accurately
and completely. Some terms may have several
possible equivalents, each of which may carry
its own meaning and connotation.
Ambiguity and contextuality: TBM terminology
can be ambiguous and depend on the context in
which it is used. For example, the term "Ren
Shiu" may have different interpretations
depending on the specific situation and the
applied approach in TCM.
Cultural aspects of TVM terminology:
Philosophy and Concepts: TBM
terminology is permeated with
philosophical and cultural concepts such
as Qi, Yin and Yang, Ren Shiu and others.
These concepts reflect a unique
understanding of health and disease,
which is associated with the traditions and
values of Eastern culture.
Symbolism and metaphors: TBM
terminology often uses symbols and
metaphors that have a deep cultural
meaning. For example, Yin and Yang are
a symbolic pair of opposites, reflecting
harmony and balance. Understanding
these symbols in the context of culture is
necessary for the correct interpretation of
the terminology of TWM.
Traditional practices and rituals: TBM
terminology is often associated with
traditional practices and rituals that have
cultural significance. For example, the use
of certain herbs or the performance of
certain ceremonies in the treatment. An
understanding of these practices and their
associated terms is essential for the correct
and accurate use of TBM terminology.
2. COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS OF
TERMINOLOGICAL UNITS: A STUDY OF
LITERATURE AND SOURCES IN CHINESE AND
ENGLISH CONTAINING THE TERMS OF
TRADITIONAL ORIENTAL MEDICINE.
We used various sources in Chinese and English
to conduct our research, including research
papers, tutorials, books, and online resources on
TVM. We have focused on collecting terms
related to key aspects of TBM, such as
meridians, acupuncture points, concepts of Qi,
Yin and Yang, as well as methods of diagnosis
and treatment.
Examples and quotes:
Term example: Qi
Quote: "Qi is a fundamental concept in TBM. It is
an energy force that permeates the body and
keeps it alive." (Source: Liu, G., & Liang, X.
(2019). Traditional Chinese Medicine: Its
History, Philosophy, and Practice. Springer.)
Term example: Zhen Shi
Language aspects of TVM terminology:
Quote: "The goal of TBM is to achieve the state of
Ren Shiu, which involves harmony and balance
between various aspects of the body, including
energy, blood, emotions and organ functions."
(Source: Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations
of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text.
Elsevier Health Sciences.)
Unique terms and expressions: TVM has its
Example term: Meridians (Jingluo)
Quote: "The meridians are the channels
through which Qi circulates. They connect
the various parts of the body and organs,
and their balance and harmony are
considered important for maintaining
health." (Source: Deadman, P., A., AlKhafaji, M., & Baker, K. (2016). A
Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of
Chinese Medicine Publications.)
Example term: Acupuncture Points
Quote: "Acupuncture points are specific
places on the body where Chi energy is
concentrated. They are used in
acupuncture to restore balance and
improve health." (Source: Cheng, X.
(2010). Chinese Acupuncture and
Moxibustion. People's Medical Publishing
House.)
Term example: Yin and Yang
Quote: "Yin and Yang represent opposite
but complementary aspects that are
present in everything, including the
human body. Their balance is considered
key to maintaining health and harmony."
(Source: Maciocia, G. (2013). The Psyche
in Chinese Medicine: Treatment of
Emotional and Mental Disharmonies with
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. Elsevier
Health Sciences.)
The analysis of the above examples of terms
of traditional oriental medicine allows us
to pay attention to the following aspects:
Key concepts: Example terms such as "Qi"
(Qi), "Ren Shiu" (Zhen Shi), "Meridians"
(Jingluo) and "Yin and Yang" are key
concepts in TWM. They reflect the basic
principles and concepts of this medical
system, such as energy, harmony and
balance.
Cultural and symbolic aspects: The
terminology of TBM reflects the deep
cultural and symbolic aspects of Eastern
philosophy and worldview. For example,
the concept of "Yin and Yang" refers to
the concept of duality and the interaction
of opposites in nature and the human
body.
Unique Methods and Approaches: Examples
of terms associated with acupuncture
points indicate the use of specific
therapies in TBM, which are based on the
impact on specific points on the body to restore
energy balance.
Versatility and contextuality: Each of the given
examples of terms has its own ambiguous and
contextual aspects. For example, the concept of
"Qi" can cover a wide range of meanings, from
the energy of the body to the energy flows in
nature.
The analysis of these examples emphasizes the
importance of an in-depth study of the
terminology of TBM and its relationship with
cultural and linguistic aspects in order to fully
understand and correctly apply this medical
system. It also points to the need for careful
consideration of context and interpretation when
working with TBM terminology.
Conclusion:
The collection and analysis of terminological units
of traditional oriental medicine from the
literature in Chinese and English allows a better
understanding and description of the key aspects
of this medical system. The given examples and
quotations demonstrate the use of the terms
TBM in various sources and contexts. This
helps TMT researchers and practitioners to
better understand and interpret these terms and
their meanings.
2.1 CLASSIFICATION OF TERMS: DEFINITION
OF THE MAIN CATEGORIES AND GROUPING
OF TERMINOLOGICAL UNITS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR SEMANTIC AND
GRAMMATICAL CHARACTERISTICS.
The definition of the main categories and
the grouping of terminological units make it
possible to better understand and structure the
content and semantics of these terms. Here are
some main categories and ways of grouping
terms:
Category by semantics:
Conceptual terms: These are the terms that denote
the basic concepts and concepts of TBM, for
example, "Qi" (Qi), "Yin and Yang".
Methodological terms: Terms related to methods
of diagnosis and treatment in TCM, for
example, "acupuncture points" (Acupuncture
Points), "meridians" (Jingluo).
Anatomical and physiological terms: Terms
referring to organs, systems and processes in the
body, such as "heart" (Heart), "liver"
(Liver), "blood circulation" (Blood
Circulation).
Grouping by grammatical characteristics:
Nouns: This is the most extensive group of
terms denoting specific objects or
concepts, for example, "liver" (Liver),
"acupuncture needle" (Acupuncture
Needle).
Verbs: Terms denoting actions, methods or
processes, for example, "treat" (Treat),
"insert" (Insert).
Adjectives: Terms describing states,
properties or qualities, such as
"harmonious" (Harmonious),
"imbalanced" (Imbalanced).
Grouping by conceptual relationship:
OF TRADITIONAL ORIENTAL MEDICINE.
Comparison of terms in Chinese and English in
traditional oriental medicine can lead to the
identification of correspondences, differences
and features of the translation and interpretation
of terms. Below are some examples:
Term example: Qi
Correspondence: In English, the term "Qi" is
usually translated as "energy" or "life force".
Differences: The term "Qi" has a wider semantic
spectrum in Chinese culture, referring to energy,
flow, harmony and balance, which can be
difficult to convey in a single English word.
Translation Features: When translating the term
"Qi" into English, it is important to consider the
context and refer to additional explanations to
convey its full meaning.
Grouping by TBM Principles: Terms
associated with specific TBM principles
and concepts, such as "Qi" (Qi), "Zhen
Shiu" (Zhen Shi), "Yin and Yang".
Example term: Acupuncture Points
Grouping by Application: Terms referring to
various areas of TBM practice, such as
acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage,
and so on.
Differences: However, it is worth noting that in
TBM, acupuncture points are not limited to
needles, they can also be stimulated by other
methods such as massage or herbal medicine.
Diagnosis, for example, "acupuncture"
(Acupuncture), "herbal medicine" (Herbal
Medicine), "massage" (Massage).
Translation features: When translating and
interpreting the term "Acupuncture points", it is
necessary to take into account its wide context
of use and the possibility of using various
methods of stimulating these points.
Grouping by organs and systems: Terms
associated with specific organs and
systems in the body, such as "heart"
(Heart), "liver" (Liver), "digestive system"
(Digestive System).
These categories and groupings of terms
make it possible to organize TBM
terminology, establish links between
various terms, and facilitate understanding
and study of this medical system. They
can also be useful for the development of
terminological resources and reference
books that help professionals and
researchers in the field of TCM to
correctly use and interpret terms.
2.3 COMPARISON OF TERMS IN
CHINESE AND ENGLISH:
IDENTIFICATION OF
CORRESPONDENCES, DIFFERENCES
AND FEATURES OF THE
TRANSLATION AND
INTERPRETATION OF THE TERMS
Correspondence: The term "Acupuncture Points"
has a close English translation and occurs as
"Acupuncture Points".
Term example: Yin and Yang
Correspondence: The terms "Yin" and "Yang" are
often used in both Chinese and English without
change.
Differences: However, their interpretation and
understanding may differ in different cultures.
In Eastern medicine, "Yin" and "Yang"
represent opposites, interaction, and balance,
while in Western culture these terms are often
associated with two opposing forces or states.
Translation Features: When translating and
interpreting the terms "Yin" and "Yang", it is
important to take into account their contextual
meaning in TWM and explain their interaction
and balance in order to present a full
understanding of these terms in Western culture.
These are just a few examples of terms and their
translation in traditional oriental medicine. It is
important to note that the translation and
interpretation of terms are complex
processes, and they must take into account
the cultural, conceptual and contextual
features of both languages in order to
achieve the best fit and understanding.
7 CONCLUSION
At the end of this article, an overview and
analysis of the terminology in traditional
oriental medicine was presented. In the
course of the study, the main aspects of
the formation and use of terms, their role
and significance in the context of TWM
were considered. Features and specifics of
terminology associated with cultural and
linguistic aspects were highlighted. For an
in-depth understanding of the terms, an
analysis and classification were carried
out, the main categories and groupings of
terminological units were identified,
taking into account semantic and
grammatical characteristics.
Additionally, a comparative analysis of
terms in Chinese and English was carried
out, correspondences, differences and
features of the translation and
interpretation of TVM terms were
identified. This highlights the importance
of taking into account contextual meaning
and cultural characteristics when
translating and interpreting terms in order
to ensure the accuracy and completeness
of their meaning.
and translators to work more efficiently with
terminological units and expand their
knowledge in the field of TVM. Further
research and development in this area will help
improve translation and interpretation practices,
as well as enrich our knowledge of traditional
oriental medicine.
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