The definitions section (tanımlar) at the beginning of a contract is the dictionary of the rest of the text. A term defined there may carry a scope different from its meaning in everyday language. In translation it is mandatory to use these terms with a single equivalent.
The function of the section
The definitions section gives certain terms a meaning specific to the text. This meaning applies throughout the contract. The section is the dictionary of the text.
Difference from the everyday meaning
A defined term may be narrower or wider than its meaning in everyday language. This difference is deliberate. The translation stays faithful to the definition.
Form of marking
Defined terms may be marked by capital letters or by a special format. The mark shows that the term is defined. The format is preserved.
The single equivalent rule
A defined term is used with the same equivalent throughout the text. A second equivalent gives the impression of two separate terms. This rule has no exceptions.
Terminology list
The defined terms are entered in a list at the start of the job. The list is kept open throughout the translation. It is reused in later jobs.
Client approval
The equivalents of the terms may be submitted to the client for approval. Approval prevents disputes later. The decision is kept in writing.
Order of the definitions
Definitions are usually in alphabetical order, and this order may change in the target language. The change of order is discussed with the client. In numbered definitions the order is preserved.
Nested definitions
A definition may use another defined term. This relationship is preserved. The chain must not break.
Plural uses
Defined terms may also occur in the text in the plural. The plural form is produced in line with the definition. Consistency is preserved.
Shortened terms
Long terms may be referred to in the definition by a short name. The short name is used throughout the text. The two forms are not mixed up.
Definitions of the parties
The parties to the contract are referred to by a short name in the definitions section. These names carry the rest of the text. Consistency is critical.
Undefined terms
There may be a term that is marked in the text but is not found in the definitions section. This gap is reported. No guess is made.
Unused definitions
Some definitions are never used in the text. This may be left over from a draft. The definition is translated all the same.
Rules of interpretation
Alongside the definitions there may be rules that determine how the text is to be read. These rules are provisions. They are translated with care.
Definitions in the annexes
Some annexes carry their own definitions. There may be a conflict between the main text and the annex. The conflict is reported.
Changing definitions
Definitions may be changed by supplementary protocols. The change is tracked. The two versions are not mixed up.
Relationship with the translation memory
Defined terms are fixed in the translation memory. In this way the same equivalent is used in later documents. Consistency is decisive in corporate jobs.
Expressions that narrow the scope of a definition
Some definitions state explicitly that they leave something outside the scope, and this exclusion is the most decisive part of the definition. When the exclusion is skipped, the term is read more widely than it is. Sentences of this kind are carried over as a whole, without being shortened.
Delivery check
All defined terms are scanned within the text and it is verified that a single equivalent has been used. Two different equivalents make the provision uncertain. The check is supported by an automated tool.