Functional Approch To C-E Translation Of Public Signs In Scenic Spots In Xi’an

With China’s entry into the WTO and the involvement in the globalization, thetourism industry in China, especially inbound tourism is increasingly booming. Chinais facing both unprecedented challenges and opportunities. China’s multiculturalcondition and complex natural geographical environment have great attraction toforeign tourists. The English public signs in scenic spots are playing more and moreimportant roles. However, there has been inadequate attention to the importance ofC-E translation of public signs in scenic spots. The present situation of its usage is farfrom satisfaction.This paper discusses the definition, function and classification of public signs.Based on the general knowledge of public signs, the author summarizes functionalisttranslation theory of German school as the theoretical foundation of the research, anddescribes the application of functionalism to public signs translation in scenic spots.Functional approach puts emphasis on the choice of appropriate translation strategiesaccording to the intended purpose and function of the target text and the needs oftarget readers.The author selects the bilingual public signs in some famous scenic spots in Xi’anas the case study to conduct the research. Methodologies such as questionnaire survey,telephone interview, on-the-spot investigation, face-to-face interview are employed.Based on the theory and survey, the author explores various translation problems ofthe public signs in the scenic spots including spelling mistakes, grammar mistakes，improper use of words， inconsistent translation, etc. Some corresponding strategiesfrom different perspectives are proposed based on the analysis of the problems. In thisway, the author would like to make some contributions to build up a good languageenvironment for foreign tourists who come to Xi’an and expect to have some personalfindings.