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The document provides various definitions of translation, emphasizing its complexity and multifaceted nature, including linguistic, cultural, and functional perspectives. It also distinguishes between translators, who work with written texts, and interpreters, who handle spoken language in real-time situations. Each definition highlights the unique aspects and theories relevant to the translation process.

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Youbi Soumia
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2 views

firstlesson(1)

The document provides various definitions of translation, emphasizing its complexity and multifaceted nature, including linguistic, cultural, and functional perspectives. It also distinguishes between translators, who work with written texts, and interpreters, who handle spoken language in real-time situations. Each definition highlights the unique aspects and theories relevant to the translation process.

Uploaded by

Youbi Soumia
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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University of Algiers 02

Faculty of foreign languages

English Department

Module: Translation

Teacher: Mrs.W.Albalkhi.

The definitions of translation

1. General Definition: Translation is the process of converting text or speech from one
language to another, aiming to preserve meaning, tone, and cultural context as closely as
possible.
2. Linguistic Perspective: Translation involves the process of transforming written or
spoken words from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) while
maintaining syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic equivalence.
3. Cultural Definition: Translation is an act of cultural exchange, where ideas, traditions,
and emotions from one culture are conveyed to another through language adaptation.
4. Functionalist Approach: Translation is the act of rewriting a text in a way that fulfills a
specific purpose in the target language and culture, with attention to the function of the
text for the new audience.
5. Literal Definition: Translation is the conversion of individual words and sentences from
one language into the equivalent words and sentences in another language, often focusing
on word-for-word accuracy.
6. Dynamic Equivalence (by Eugene Nida): Translation is the process of conveying the
same effect on the target audience that the original text had on its readers, prioritizing
meaning and emotional impact over literal wording.
7. Machine Translation: Translation, from a computational standpoint, is the automated
transformation of text or speech using algorithms and databases to produce an equivalent
in a different language.
8. Interpretive Theory of Translation: Translation is an interpretive act where the
translator decodes the original message, grasps the intent and nuances, and then re-
encodes it in the target language for clear and accurate comprehension.
9. Literary Translation: Translation is a creative and interpretative process that goes
beyond literal meaning to capture the stylistic, aesthetic, and emotional depth of the
original text, as seen in poetry, novels, and other literary forms.
10. Philosophical Definition: Translation is an existential act of bridging worlds through
language, enabling a cross-linguistic dialogue and expanding understanding between
different cultural and linguistic identities.

Each definition highlights a unique aspect or theory in the field of translation, showcasing the
complexity and versatility of the translation process.
The difference between a translator and an interpreter :

• Translator: Works with written text, has time to edit and polish, and usually works alone.
Focuses on accuracy in written documents like books or manuals.

• Interpreter: Works with spoken language in real-time, usually in settings like meetings or
courts. They listen, process quickly, and translate immediately to keep the conversation flowing.

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