Context In Translation

Translation is an important cross-lingual communication form, which can help readers of one language acquire information contained in another language by means of semantic transference. In order to well perform the semantic transference between two languages — source language (SL) and target language (TL), and demonstrate the value of translation, the translator must take the role of context into consideration. The translator can convey the exact meaning and essence of SL through understanding and studying context including linguistic context, paralinguistic context and non-linguistic context, hence making TL readers know more information beyond the SL.This thesis illustrates nature of translation, classification of meaning, process of translating and the theory of "functional equivalence"; discusses the interpretation, classification and functions of context; indicates the close relationship between context and translation; exemplifies the application of context in translation and significance of contextual analysis in translation. It is clear in this thesis that context plays an important role in translation so as to achieve functional equivalence, despite some difficulties of completely fulfilling functional equivalence for the reasons such as distinction of different cultures, vagueness of language, etc.This thesis is just a superficial exploration on the significance of context in translation. Although there have already been quite a few research papers on this subject, some translators still translate word for word totally ignoring context, which brings TL readers much trouble in understanding the real meaning of SL. Therefore, hopefully, instructors and researchers in translation and translation-lovers will reflect...