Theories of natural equivalence in translation

TL;DR

Equivalence in translation theories refers to the equal value relationship between source and target texts, and can be approached through natural or directional equivalents.

Transcript

if you want to study contemporary theories of translation at least in the European tradition I think you should start with the concept of equivalence so very quickly what do we mean by equivalence equivalence is equal value and equivalence just posits that between a source text and a Target text a relationship of equal value is possible on some lev... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧘 Equivalence posits an equal value relationship between source and target texts, but the specific value can vary.
• ❓ Theories of natural and directional equivalence offer different approaches to finding equivalents.
• 💨 Equivalence can exist even when languages have different worldviews or ways of dividing up the world.
• 😀 Early theorists faced opposition when proclaiming the existence of equivalents in structuralist linguistics.
• ⌛ The concept of equivalence evolves and expands over time, with different theorists offering their own interpretations.
• ❓ Recognizing the presence of natural and directional equivalents can enhance the understanding of translation theories.
• 👻 Equivalence allows for adaptation and creative solutions in translation rather than strict literal matching.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is equivalence in translation?

Equivalence in translation refers to the idea that a source and target text can have a relationship of equal value, although it does not require a literal matching of every aspect.

Q: What is the difference between natural and directional equivalents?

Natural equivalents are found in the target language and culture before translating, while directional equivalents are actively created in the target language and culture during translation.

Q: How do theories of equivalence address differences between cultures?

Theories of equivalence recognize that cultures may have different expressions and functions for similar concepts. They focus on finding equivalents that maintain the same function across cultures.

Q: Is there a difference between natural and directional equivalence within the same text?

Yes, a text can contain both natural and directional equivalents. Translators may use borrowing or loan words as directional equivalents, while maintaining natural equivalents through other strategies.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Equivalence posits that a relationship of equal value is possible between a source and target text.

• The value in equivalence can lie in form, length, aesthetic qualities, and effects on users.

• Theories of natural equivalence focus on finding an existing equivalent in the target language, while theories of directional equivalence create new equivalents regardless of prior existence.