THE QUEST FOR EQUIVALENCE IN TRANSLATION: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DEFINITIONS AND APPROACHES

Authors : Sema Üstün Külünk

Pages : 427-438

View : 121 | Download : 332

Publication Date : 2023-10-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The concept of equivalence in Translation Studies has been a subject of extensive debate due to varying definitions and interpretations. Scholars propose different understandings of equivalence based on their individual perspectives on translation. This paper explores the historical context of equivalence and its impact on the development of Translation Studies. Despite its fluctuating prominence, equivalence remains a fundamental aspect of the discipline. The definitions provided by Eugene Nida, Katharina Reiss, Hans J. Vermeer, Gideon Toury, and Theo Hermans are analyzed to delve into the multifaceted nature of equivalence in translation. These different perspectives highlight the diverse conceptualizations and applications of equivalence. Nida takes a response-oriented approach, considering the reader and contextual reception of the translation. Reiss emphasizes a function-oriented approach, determining equivalence based on the text\'s function. Vermeer reduces the concept to special cases, while Toury argues that equivalence is always present. Hermans examines equivalence from a marginal viewpoint, focusing on cases of full equivalence. The paper concludes that although equivalence may not fully capture the complexities of translation, it serves as a valuable descriptive tool in comparing target and source texts and an awareness of these changes is crucial to appreciate the diversity inherent in the translational act
Keywords : Eşdeğerlik, İşlevsel Yaklaşımlar, Norm Kuramı, Skopos