Plain Legal Language as accessibility tool for translators: an empirical study at a phraseological level

Abstract

The accessibility of legal language has become an essential component of social integration for all citizens. Likewise, for any legal translator, understanding legal language will be a crucial first step in overcoming any communication barrier. In light of this consideration, the purpose of this study is to compare the original Charter of the United Nations with the plain-language version adapted to the same language, paying particular attention to differences in phraseology. By conducting this study, we will have an opportunity to examine the linguistic simplification strategies applied by this international organization, taking into consideration the factors highlighted by plain language as a means of making legal language more communicatively accessible.