An Adaptation-theoretical Perspective On Novel Dialogue Translation

Dialogue is an important part of the novel, a significant method of displaying the characters'characteristics and inner world, and it is indispensable to the novel. Dialogue translation should be paid more attention to in the novel translation.Pragmatics is a new branch in the field of linguistics. The research target of this subject focuses on the language in practical application and the relationship between language and language users, so, it has transcended the theoretical frame formed by traditional linguistics. It begins to dynamically research language, which is more valuable in practical application at the same time.On the basis of Verschueren's adaptation theory, the paper studies the novel dialogue translation by introducing the Semitics to translation field to guide translation, attempts to provide a new perspective for novel dialogue translation.Verschueren's adaptation theory believes using language is a process of the continuous making of linguistic choices. Context is a critical factor in the using process. Because of the three characteristics of languages: variability, negotiability and adaptability, the user can make choices. Adaptability is the core of language using and employing every language should make dynamic adaptation according to the context. Through analyzing and describing adaptation theory, the paper mainly discusses the application of the theory to show the rationality and maneuverability and discovers its importance for novel dialogue translation.Firstly, the paper analyzes the characteristics of the novel dialogue and the previous studies on its translation. It points out that the studies on it are far from being enough although it is every important. It puts out to apply adaptation theory to novel dialogue translation and analyzes its application in the non-linguistic context specifically. Then it discusses the application from three aspects: physical world, social world and mental world in detail. Finally, it draws a conclusion by analyzing the novel dialogue translation in Pride and Prejudice.In a word, adaptation theory plays a significant role in novel dialogue translation. Applying it to novel dialogue translation can offer a new thinking pattern and make the study of translation step to a wider future.