Languages, Symbols and Science: Wording of Mathematical Terms in Science Translations in Ming and Qing Dynasties

The translation of mathematics in Ming and Qing Dynasties introduced a new theoretical system to Chinese mathematics, promoted the evolution of traditional Chinese mathematics, and laid a foundation for the formation of a new knowledge system of Chinese mathematics.In those translations, wording of mathematical terms is not only the core issue of the translation, but also a complex issue involving three major themes of languages, symbols and science.This paper discusses the selection of the words used in the Chinese translation of mathematics in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and sorts out the differences between Chinese and Western languages, the selection of mathematical terms and the formation of the terminology system.It explores the symbol conversion in the wording in such translations and focuses on the analysis of the mathematical ideas in symbolic expressions.From the perspective of the history of scientific thought, the paper analyzes the theoretical expression of Chinese and Western mathematics, the integration of scientific ideas, and the evolution of Chinese mathematics.It concludes that the wording in the Chinese translation of mathematics in the Ming and Qing Dynasties is a profound enlightenment for modern scientific translation in introducing advanced scientific ideology, forming a scientific translation system with Chinese characteristics, and creating a Chinese scientific discourse system.