As an English translator, you have likely had or will have to translate legal documents, particularly commercial contracts with linked documents. When translating the word “Appendix”, which of the following English words should be used: Appendix, Annex, Exhibit, Attachment, Schedule, Addendum? This article will assist you answer the questions above.
Definitions in the dictionary
Attachment refers to any document that’s attached to the primary document.
Appendix is an additional document attached at the end of the main document to provide additional information.
Annex refers to content attached to a document or report.
Schedule is a list or category of goods or services, a statement attached to a document that provides detailed information about the issues mentioned in the main document.
Exhibit is a document referenced in the contract, whose function is to establish the volume and specifications of the items to be delivered under the contract.
Addendum is a document or information attached or supplemented to clarify, correct or substantiate information in the original document.
Distinguish the difference and use it in context
Based on these definitions, we have clearly seen the functions of Attachment, Schedule, Addendum and Exhibit , but what about Appendix and Annex ?
If an attached document has an ‘additional’ function and is part of the contract, and is important in ensuring the validity of that contract, then that attached document needs to be called an Appendix .
If the attached document is a separate document from the contract, containing information that can be changed by each party to the contract without affecting the validity of the contract, nor requiring changes to the contract content accordingly, then the attached document should be called Annex .