General Translation Theory - Introduction Quiz

What is the primary purpose of translation according to the theory of equivalence in translation?

• To produce a text in the target language that is equivalent in meaning to the source language text, while respecting the grammar, syntax, and idiom of the target language.

• To produce a literal translation of the source language text without considering the grammar, syntax, and idiom of the target language.

• To produce a text in the target language that is completely different from the source language text.

• To produce a text in the target language that is similar in meaning to the source language text, but with no regard for grammar, syntax, and idiom.

What is “Skopos Theory” in translation studies?

• A theory that emphasizes the purpose of the translation, which dictates the methods and strategies to be employed.

• A theory that focuses on word-for-word translation without considering the purpose of the translation.

• A theory that prioritizes literal accuracy over functional appropriateness in translation.

• A theory that views translation as a cultural act rather than a linguistic one.

Name and briefly describe one key difference between dynamic and formal equivalence.

• Dynamic equivalence focuses on conveying the message of the original text, even if it means altering the literal structure or words, while formal equivalence seeks to remain faithful to the form, structure, and words of the original text.

• Dynamic equivalence prioritizes literal accuracy over functional appropriateness, while formal equivalence focuses on conveying the message of the original text.

• Dynamic equivalence aims to produce a text in the target language that is completely different from the source language text, while formal equivalence aims for similarity in meaning.

• Dynamic equivalence and formal equivalence are essentially the same and have no significant differences.

Who is associated with the development of the Linguistic Theory of Translation and what is its core principle?

• J.C. Catford; Translation is a process of substituting the Source Language (SL) textual material with equivalent Target Language (TL) material at various linguistic levels.

• Hans Vermeer; Translation is a process of substituting the Source Language (SL) textual material with equivalent Target Language (TL) material at various linguistic levels.

• Itamar Even-Zohar; Translation is a process of substituting the Source Language (SL) textual material with equivalent Target Language (TL) material at various linguistic levels.

• Eugene Nida; Translation is a process of substituting the Source Language (SL) textual material with equivalent Target Language (TL) material at various linguistic levels.

How does polysystem theory perceive translated literature?

• As an integral part of the literary system of the target culture, which can actively influence and shape it, especially in young and “weak” literary systems.

• As a separate entity from the literary system of the target culture, with no influence or impact on it.

• As a form of cultural appropriation that should be avoided.

• As a means of preserving the literary system of the source culture without any adaptation or changes.

What does Vinay and Darbelnet's theory of translation procedures focus on?

• Categorizing translation procedures into direct (or literal) translation and oblique translation, focusing on the changes made from Source Text (ST) to Target Text (TT) to maintain equivalent effect.

• Categorizing translation procedures into formal equivalence and dynamic equivalence, focusing on the balance between literal accuracy and functional appropriateness.

• Categorizing translation procedures into borrowing, calque, and literal translation, focusing on maintaining the literal structure and words of the original text.

• Categorizing translation procedures into transposition, modulation, equivalence, and adaptation, focusing on conveying the message of the original text.

What is the core belief of the hermeneutic theory of translation?

• That understanding and interpreting the source text is vital, implying that translation is not just about language transfer but also about comprehending and conveying the meanings, contexts, and intentions embedded in the original.

• That translation should prioritize literal accuracy over functional appropriateness.

• That translation is a purely linguistic act with no cultural implications.

• That translation should focus on adapting the text to make it familiar or transparent to the target audience.

What is Eugene Nida famous for in the realm of translation studies?

• Introducing the concepts of “formal equivalence” and “dynamic equivalence” in translation theory, which focus on the balance between maintaining literal accuracy and ensuring that the message is contextually appropriate in the target language.

• Developing the Linguistic Theory of Translation, which emphasizes the substitution of Source Language (SL) textual material with equivalent Target Language (TL) material at various linguistic levels.

• Proposing Polysystem Theory, which views translated literature as an integral part of the literary system of the target culture.

• Introducing the concepts of domestication and foreignization in translation, which involve adapting the text to make it familiar or retaining foreign elements to make cultural differences evident.

What role does culture play in translation according to the Cultural Turn in translation studies?

• Culture plays a significant role in translation, as it recognizes that translation is not merely a linguistic act but also a cultural one where meanings, values, and other cultural elements are transferred between languages and cultures.

• Culture has no influence on translation, as translation is solely a linguistic act.

• Culture only plays a role in literary translation, not in other types of translation.

• Culture is irrelevant in translation, as the focus should be solely on conveying the literal meaning of the source text.

How does the concept of 'translator's invisibility' described by Lawrence Venuti affect translation practices?

• It often sidelines the translator’s role and suppresses the foreignness of the source text, favoring fluent, transparent translations that do not draw attention to themselves.

• It highlights the translator’s role and emphasizes the foreignness of the source text, favoring translations that retain cultural differences and challenge the target audience.

• It encourages literal translations that prioritize accuracy over fluency and readability.

• It promotes the use of translation memory to ensure consistency and efficiency in translation practices.