This is the essence of any translation theory. It is a discussion on translation standards, translation principles, translation procedures, translation methods, translation effects and translation quality, but there are differences in research approaches, methods and ideas. From the mainstream, Chinese and western translation theories are very similar.

For example, the west has explored literal translation and free translation, represented by Cicero; China is also arguing about literal translation and free translation, with Zhi Qian as the representative. Literal translation and free translation have always been hot topics for Chinese and western translators and translation theorists. The evolution process of Chinese and western translation theories is similar. Basically, from the practical experience of translation, the quality of translation and the aspects pursued by translators are discussed. It was a bit messy at first, but then it gradually entered a systematic discussion.

There are some representative figures in the historical process of Chinese and Western translation theories, such as Cicero, Horace, Jerome, Goethe, tytler, Nida, Catford, Holmes and so on. China has Zhiqian, Daoan, Kumarajiva, Xuanzang, Yan Fu, Lu Xun, Fu Lei, Dong, Tan Zaixi and Liu He.

The similarity between China and the West is also reflected in the issue of "faithfulness" in translation. The translation circle in China has conducted a very in-depth discussion on the "faithfulness" of translation. The focus of the debate is what to believe, how to achieve "faithfulness" and to what extent. In the west, there are various views on translation equivalence, such as functional equivalence, equivalence and equivalence. Translation theorists explain translation from linguistics, literature and art and other related disciplines.