the concept of equivalence
Translation...[is] the replacement of textual material in one language (SL) by equivalent textual material in another language (TL)...The central problem of translation practice is that of finding TL translation equivalents. A central task of translation theory is that of defining the nature and conditions of translation equivalence. Equivalence has always been a kernel concept in translation and its definition, relevance and applicability within the field of translation theory have caused heated controversy. Debates about equivalence have marked the development of translation studies in the past fifty years, forming a significant testing ground for hypotheses concerning the institutional legitimation of the discipline. These debates have accrued historical depth and particularly polarized positions, with some thinking that the idea of equivalence legitimates translation studies and others being upset by this. What will be examined in the following lines is whether this principle of equivalent effect constitutes a useful concept in the process of translating as well as whether its applicability is a feasible potential or just an illusion.But what is this principle of equivalent effect about? As Sand
It becomes, therefore, clear that the translator should bear in mind all the aspects of the ST and should establish certain priorities in choosing the transfer of the ST components in the TL, always depending on the intention of the translated text and always aiming at creating the closest equivalent effect on the TT audience. This response can never be identical, for the cultural and historical settings are too different, but there should be a high degree of equivalence of response, or the translation will have failed to accomplish its purpose (24). is not, however, to be measured merely in terms of whether the words are understandable and the sentences grammatically constructed, but in terms of the total impact the message has on the one who receives it"(22). By understanding the features and essence of every kind of culture in other civilizations, the TL readers will have also enriched the understanding of their own culture. Exploring the notion of equivalence at different levels, in relation to the translation process, she includes all different aspects of translation and puts together the linguistic and the communicative approach, thus suggesting that equivalence is feasible if and only if the translator manages to create an equivalent effect in the TT in all these levels. In a few words, the translator should weigh the universal, cultural and personal elements against each other. Although interlinguistic and intercultural relations differ, a translator should always find a way to transfer a cultural element or expression from the ST into the TT, either fully explaining it in terms of TL cultural equivalents or just giving a few hints and leaving the readers to calculate the meaning of the ST and 'implant' it within the standards of their own culture. Susan Bassnett interestingly points out: "Equivalence overall results from the relations between signs themselves, the relationship between signs and what they stand for, and the relationship between signs, what they stand for and those who use them"(27). The principle of equivalent effect proves to be a very useful concept in the process of translating but its effectiveness and applicability depends upon the translator's ability to take into consideration the whole set of features, aims and functions of the ST and 'implant' them accordingly in the Target Language and culture.
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Acceptance Essays
