Equivalence

The controlling concept of most translation theories since the fifties of the twentieth century. Catford (1965:21): “the central problem of translation practice is that of finding TL equivalents.”

Baker (1992: 5-6) uses equivalence “for the sake of convenience – because most translators are used to it rather than because it has any theoretical status”.

She believes that linguistic and cultural aspects influence equivalence and make it relative.

Baker’s typology of equivalence Equivalence at word level (ibid.: 10-43). Baker says that equivalence at word level is the first element to be examined by translators. When analysing STs, translators recognize words as single units aiming to find a direct ‘equivalent’ in the TL. Translators should consider a number of factors such as number, gender and tense (ibid.: 11-12).

Equivalence at collocation level She says that collocations represent the tendency of certain words to co-occur regularly in a certain language. Cheque often occurs with bank, pay, money and write than with moon and butter.

Problems of equivalence Translation problems can be broadly classified into: Linguistic Extra-linguistic (culture, religious, social)

Linguistic Classification A translator shall first identify the domain in which a word is used in order to search for an acceptable rendering into the target language.

- Domains include, but are not limited to, the following Cultural, Technological, Economic, Legal, etc.

Cultural At word level: these problems may include SL words which are not lexicalized in TL. Example: Facepalm: A facepalm refers to the physical gesture of placing one's hand across one's face. The gesture is found in many cultures as a display of frustration, disappointment, etc.

Zakat Is it compulsory charity? Or is it alms?

Charity Cambridge dictionary definition: Giving money, food, or help free to those who are in need because they are ill, poor, or have no home, or any organization that has the purpose of providing money or helping in this way:

Alms Clothing, food, or money that is given to poor people:

Next Class Which one? The first, the second, neither!!!