A Corpus-based Study On Interpersonal Meaning In The English Version Of The Reports On The Work Of The Government

This paper explores how the English version of the Reports on the Work of the Government achieves its interpersonal meaning based on the self-built corpus of the English version of the Report from the perspective of Halliday’s systemic functional theory.In addition,it discusses what kind of China image it creates.In this paper,quantitative and qualitative studies of the English version of the Reports are mainly conducted.This paper analyzes the mood system,modality system and personal system in the English version of the Reports on the Work of the Government.From the perspective of mood type,the author finds that the declarative mood occupies the majority in the English version of the Report.Besides,there are also some imperative clauses in the Report as well.The main aim of the Report is to summarize the previous year’s work and goals for the upcoming year.Therefore,the declarative mood is preferred in the Report.In addition,the imperative mood plays an important role of emphasis.From the perspective of modality value,the author finds that median value modal verbs are preferred in the English version of the Report.In addition,the frequency of high value modal verbs ranks the second in the Report.It proves that the use of median to high values in the Report can enhance the credibility.It puts special emphasis on the determination to work together and create a bright future of China.From the perspective of personal system,the author finds that the frequency of first personal plural is the highest in the English version of the Report.Among them,the frequency of “we” ranks the first in the Report,which reveals that China is a responsible country and shares honor and disgrace with all Chinese people.In addition,the English version of the Report on the Work of the Government is addressed to the world.The choice of mood types,modal verbs and personal pronouns can show China’s prosperity and unity to the world and establish a good image of China.Translation is a crucial step for Chinese culture to go global.It is of great significance to strengthen translation studies of China.This paper expects to provide a reference for future translation theories and practices through the study of the English version of the Report on the Work of the Government.