On The C-E Translation Strategies For National Or Cultural Words In Political Texts From Skopos Theory Perspective

This thesis has explored translation strategies for National or Cultural Words(NCW)in the C-E translation of political texts from skopos theory perspective.Research approach is inductive,with Xi Jinping: The Governance of China III(Shortened as “The Governance III”)as the study case.Based on the guiding principles under skopos theory and general principles in translation for global communication,this thesis summarizes four key points in translating NCWs in Chinese political texts:respect for Chinese reality,care for foreign readers,promoting Chinese culture and maintaining the ST style.The main discussion part analyzes how these rules are embodied in the translation strategies of target NCWs in The Governance III.As can be observed from the research,target NCWs in The Governance III can be divided into four categories: A.Specific political terms in China,B.Words with special national and cultural meaning,C.Words related to historical stories,and D.Chinese idiomatic expressions.From macro view,target NCWs’ translation in the book have fully demonstrated the rules under skopos theory.These rules are interrelated to provide the best translated version.Under each rule,there are combined translation strategies or methods.Principle to care for readers has gone through all the four categories.From micro view,there are two noteworthy points: 1.Literal translation of specific political terms in China should be “discrete” enough;2.In category B to D(Native Chinese words or expressions),the common translation strategy is to reduce Chinese national or cultural flavor,remain the practical meaning or make compensation in notes.These strategies may be driven by the ultimate translation goal,target readers or the ST style.On these findings,this research suggests: 1.“Flexible with principles” strategy for general translation;2.Expediting standardization of specific political terms in China;3.Collaboration between Chinese and foreign experts for close equivalents in translating NCWs.