Legal language

Terminology consistency in bilingual legal documents

Consistency does not mean repeating the same word mechanically; it means preserving functions and distinctions under a controlled process.

What to record

A project glossary can include defined terms, approved equivalents, prohibited variants, proper names, and context notes. It should also distinguish deliberate variation from an inconsistency.

Layered control

  1. Extract definitions and recurring terms.
  2. Relate each term to its function and jurisdiction.
  3. Check cross-references, exhibits, and party names.
  4. Compare the complete translation against the source.

This method reduces accidental shifts without turning the document into a mechanical word-substitution exercise.

Sources

Scope notice: This educational resource is not legal, immigration, tax, or academic advice. Requirements can change and must be confirmed with the receiving institution.

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