التلطف الطبي بين مقتضيات اللغة الطبية و حدود الترجمة

Abstract EN

Doctors usually use specialized medical language that is clear, precise and objective, but they resort sometimes to medical euphemisms for specific purposes such as reducing the shock impact on patients and their families as well as keeping the window of hope open.

The use of euphemism in medical field is subject to wide controversy, some support its use considering the human and social dimensions, while others reject it entirely on the grounds that the patient must be told the truth which is part of the respect of the noble medical professions’ ethics.

Amidst support and opposition debate, the translator finds himself faced with a large number of euphemised expressions that he should convey, even if they seem ambiguous, notably the specialized ones which are difficult to understand by the recipient.

Thus, how does the translator, who is required to understand the message and make it understood, deal with these euphemisms? Should he adhere to the features of medical language, preserve the ambiguity of euphemism or seek to highlight its meaning in order to facilitate the message understanding in this sensitive field?