A Study On C-E Translation Of Public Signs In Nanning—an Intercultural Communication Perspective

The quality of Chinese-English translation of public signs in a certain city possesses close relationship with the city's international image, and standard English translation of public signs can mirror the degree of its internationalization.It is from the beginning of 21st century that researchers commence to specialize in the study of this field from different theoretical perspectives. However, articles, which probe into C-E translation of public signs in a special city from the perspective of intercultural communication, are few. Stemmed from the internal relationship among language, culture, and translation, and taking culture as the kernel, intercultural communication perspective which is effective in guiding C-E translation of pubic signs, regards translation as an intercultural activity which involves not merely the conversion of the languages but the cultures.Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is becoming a regional internationalized metropolis. But many improper or even incorrect C-E translations of the public signs can be found there which fail to function as expected, such as: spelling errors, Chinglish, inappropriate tone, unrelated correspondence, cultural unacceptability and so on. So to improve and exalt the quality of C-E translation of public signs in Nanning becomes a mission of great urgency.Exemplified by the bilingual public signs in Nanning, and taking field survey as the means, this thesis attempts to analyze the categories and the causes of the mistranslations from the perspective of intercultural communication and put forwards the strategies for modification which differentiates this thesis from others. In connection with the mistranslation owing to the deficiency of intercultural communication competence and awareness, the author suggests some strategies from the aspects of the translators and the sign-makers. And as to the special signs with Chinese characteristics, some flexible techniques should be applied. In the end some suggestions are available for future study.