Abstract:

The concept of power unit “horsepower” entered China in the middle of the 19th century, and the Chinese word “mali” (horsepower) appeared almost during this period. It should be a loan-translation of the English horsepower. After about three or four decades, “mali” has been basically stereotyped in Chinese. It is not only used in scientific writings, but also often seen in ordinary texts. It is both a scientific term and a daily word. Later, “mali” also moved to Japan from China.

Key words: horsepower, loan-translation