Glossary of acquis communautaire terminology : terminology used in the translation of the acquis communautaire into Maltese

Abstract

This glossary is a collection of the most commonly used terms in the translation of the acquis communautaire into the Maltese language. It includes words and phrases of general applicability repeatedly used in primary legislation - the Treaties - and in secondary legislation - directives, regulations and decisions - of the European Union. It is a user friendly trilingual glossary designed to present equivalent terms in Maltese, English and French for every single entry, thus enabling the user to make linguistic comparisons. In addition, it presents an authentic example for each entry in the three language versions. Considering that translation into Maltese is presently in its early stages, this study is meant to contribute to the harmonisation of use of Community terminology. It is based on the strict principle of describing rather than prescribing. In other words, in conducting my research I observed how present and past translators have translated the acquis communautaire and, after thorough examination, I selected the most commonly used and adequate terms. This glossary is a reliable, practical and consistent compilation of European Union terminology which is aimed for the use of all those interested in pursuing a translation career for one of the institutions of the European Union - officials, temporary staff and freelance translators alike. Finally, this glossary was especially created with students of Translation Studies in mind.