"Chinglish" is a term used to describe the poor English used in Taiwan. Your editorial ("Standardization beats perfection," April 11, page 8) commented on the latest efforts to correct English errors through an "error identification activity" sponsored by the Taipei City government.
Having lived and taught in Taiwan for nine years, I have seen a number of these well meaning, but misguided, efforts that rely on the public instead of professional expertise to ensure excellence in English-language usage. I cannot fathom why there is not a single department responsible for all English signs, notices and documentation. There are a number of competent proofreading agencies in Taiwan that would be very happy to handle this work, including a company I work for part-time as a proofreader.
These companies have expert native English-language proofreading professionals who transform documents from translation companies, research papers and theses into error-free English. The solution is obvious.
One government department must be given overall responsibility for all English language requirements, and this department should find the proper proofreading company to handle this problem once and for all.
Chaim Melamed
Pingtung
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