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Preface
The topic Applied translation studies (written by Mr. Khizar Hayat) related to Applied
linguistics. The main aim or purpose of this submission is for the incoming students of BS
English as well for MA English linguistics students, to provide help in their studies. The topic is
in easy diction, for initial students. This is a broad topic and difficult to access of such material
in internet, and we havent seen any good book for such topic. My aim is to make it easier to
help the students from tiresome searching of mentioned topic.
(Shahid Hilal)
Sayedshahid626@gmail.com
Contents:
1. Definition page 2
2. History of translation page 2 to 4
3. Principles of translation page 4 to 5
4. Theories of translation page 5 to 8
5. Methods of translation page 8 to 10
6. Tran. Methods, procedure and strategies page 11 to 14
7. Translation of metaphor page 14 to 15
8. What is the comparison between Urdu and English speech act? Page 16 t0 26
9. Difference b/w semantic and communicative translation page 26 to 29
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
2
History of Translation
When tell about it, we should talk about theories of figures emerged in its different
periods. In fact each era is characterized by specific changes in translation theory. That
changes different from one place to another in development of translation in western
world is not the same as an Arab world.
Translation in the western world
For centuries people believed in the relation of between translation and the story of the tower of
Babel in the book of Genesis.
According to Bible, the descendants of Noah decided (after great flood), their settle down
in the plain in the land of Shinar. Their they committed a great sin, instead of setting
society there that fits God well, decided to challenge and build a tower to reach Heaven.
The plan not completed, as God knew their wish regained controlled over them through a
linguistic stratagem. As a result different languages so as to not understand each other
then, he scattered them into the earth. After that indent the number of languages
increased. The people started to look for ways to communicate. Birth of translation
studies, and increase of research in the field, people started to look away from this story
of Babel and looked for specific deals figures related to the history of translation.
According to researchers, writing in translation so bade to Romans.
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Invention of the printing press in 15th century played in important role in the development
of translation.
17th century brought many influential like Sir John Denham (1615-59), Abraham Cowley,
(1618-67), John Dryden (1631-1700), who was famous for three types of translation,
metaphase, periphrases, and imitation, and also Alexander Pope (1688-1744).
18th century, the translator was compared to an artist. More ever with new theories and
volumes in translation process, the study of translation started to be more systemic.
19th century two conflicting tendencies as a Category of thoughts and saw the translation
as a creative genius who enrich the literature language in to which he is translating.
Romanticism led to the birth of many theories and translation in domain of literature
particularly poetry.
Edward Fitzgerald (1809-1863), translated Rubayat of Umer-Al-Khayyam (1858).
Second half of 20th century, study of translating important course in language teaching and
learning at school. Different varieties/methods of translation developed is GTM. Studies the
grammatical rule and structures of foreign languages enteral models, not only required, only
word for word substitution in translation, but also cultural understanding of the people (how
they live, talk etc.).
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Another model appeared in the period is was text-based translation methods, where focuses on
texts rather than words or sentences in translation.
Is period is characterized by pragmatic and systematic approach to the study of translation.
Most important figures are Jeam-Paul Vmay, Darbelnet (1958). Alfred Malblanc (1963), George
Mounin (1963), John Catford (1965), Eugene Nida (1964).
Nowadays, translation researchers started to take another path which is more automatic
invention of internet development is communication digital material has increased
cultural exchange between in the nations. As a result translation techniques which
translated more a waste less.
To sum up, translation very rich history west since its both, translation was the subject of much
controversy among theorist. Each approach it from his own ideology and full of study.
Principles of Translation
These are following in numbers:
1. Meaning: the translation should reflect the accurately the meaning of the original text.
2. Form: the ordering of the words and ideas should make the original as closely as
possible. This is particularly important in in translating legal documents, guarantee,
contract etc. however difference in the language structure often require change in the
form and order of the word.
3. Register: in linguistics register mean the variety of language typically use in a specific
type of communicative sitting: an informal register, the register of scientific discourse.
4. Source language influence: one of the frequent criticism of translation is that it does
not sound natural. This is because the translators thoughts and choice of words two
strongly molded by the original text.
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5. Style and clarity: it will be better if the translator does not change the style of the
original. But if it is needed, for example because the text is full of repetitions or mistakes
in writing, the translator may change it.
Theories of translation
1. From the beginning of 20th century, onward GTM (Grammar translating method) was
used to learn a foreign languages whose origin can be found in the way Latin and Greek
used to be approached.
2. This method was later applied to modern languages which concentrated on learning the
grammatical rules of TL (Target language) and the carried out a literal translation.
3. Translation exercises more considered to be a way to be learning of FL (Foreign
language) or reading a FL (Foreign language) text.
4. Later on 1960 century and 1970 century, GTM (Grammar translating method) lost is
popularity with the appearance of the communicative approach.
5. The method CA focused on natural ability of the student to learn an FL (Foreign
language) and attempted to represent the daily routine in classroom focusing in spoken
language instead of using sentences that more out of context. As a result this method
abandoned the translation method in its classical form.
6. The second half of 20th century a new generation of scholars worked on the same
approach to establish a more systematic analyses of translation and so all of them
focused on a closer linguistic approach.
7. With the emergence of the new theory, a new discipline arose, the theory of translation or
translation studies.
8. During the 1980 century, Newmark lugli liglied the fact that there was not much written
about this theory of translation, and some new contribution were necessary.
British scholars said that Nida was the first linguist to be considered about
translation.
Newmark man contribution to the discipline distinction he establish between the
concept of communicative and semantic translation.
9. As a result due to the scope of the discipline, 5 approaches developed about the theory of
translation in 1960, they are:
I. The North American translation workshop
II. The Mot-a-Mot theory (George Mounim)
III. The Science of translation
IV. Early translation studies
V. The poly system, and deconstruction
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Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
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a) The main representative of this theory are, Noam Chomsky, Eugene Nida, Jeen Paul, and
Erik Jacobson. Etc. who use the word equivalence, for the first time, but the concept of
equivalence emerge many controversies among theorist.
b) According to Jacobson, there are three categories in the concept of translation:
Descriptive
Theoretical
Applied
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Translation methods
1. According to Larson, translation method is divided in two categories:
I. Literal translation
II. Idiomatic translation
2. Literal translation mean, that translation faithfully followed the forms of SL (Source
language)
3. Idiomatic translation means that try to conveys, the meaning intended by the source
language with in a natural form of receptor (Target language).
Further Larson explained that in applying the literal translation, there is rarely a true
translation, the method spread for the translation were from very literal, to literal, to modified
literal, to near idiomatic, idiomatic, and unduly free the continuum is drown is follow.
Between lines, alternate lines of different languages TL (Target language).
i. Very literal: is an interline translation.
ii. Literal translation: as a translation which at sounds lives non sense and his little
communicative value. It may be useful for the purpose related to the study of the source
language, they are of little help in to speakers of the target language, who are interested
in the meaning of the source language text.
iii. Modified: literal method are a way to modify order and grammar of the source language
and acceptable sentence in the target language.
iv. Inconsistent mixture: mixes literal and idiomatic translation in the final draft of
translation.
v. Near idiomatic: translation reproduced the meaning of the source language in receptor
TL (target language), language without losing the natural form of the idiomatic
translation reproduce the meaning of the target language in the natural form of the
receptor language.
vi. The unduly free translation adds extraneous information which is not stated in the source
text. It change the meaning of the source language, it distorts the fact of the historical
and cultural sitting of the source text.
Similarly Newmark uses eight methods in his classification about translation, they are:
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iii. faithful,
iv. semantic,
v. communicative,
vi. idiomatic,
vii. Free
viii. Adaptation
That divided in to two scopes:
The method closest to the source language, and the method closest to the target language. He put
them in the form of a flattened diagram as follows:
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3. The third is context derivatives, taking the original meaning of the primary text, and
allowing it to develop it to its own unique shape in the target language.
4. The fourth deliberately retains maximal similarity for other purposes.
Andrea Lefevere, further enrich Halmes description. According to him, there are seven
methodologies of translation. Especially in the translation in the translation of poetry they are:
1. Phonemic translation: which attempt to reproduce the source language Presley in target
language.
2. Literal translation: which distort the sense and syntax of the source language.
3. Rhymed translation: where the translation enters into a double bondage of meter and
rhyme.
4. Poetry into prose: which change both of sense and syntax of the source language (how
words are unbound to form phrases sentence).
5. Blank verse: the restoration or again imposed on the translation, but the greater
accuracy and higher degree of literalness obtained or noted.
6. Interpretation: is the theme and rewrite it to make the text easier for reception. To sum
up Newmark adds that there are two best methods of translation.
A. Communicative translation: in which they attempts to produce the same effect of the
target readers.
B. Semantic translation: in which the translator attempt within the syntactic and
semantic constrains of the target language, to reproduce the process contextual
meaning of the author.
From these methods above both Newmark and Larson explain, that the selection of the
appropriate translation methods plays an important role in making a good translation. It means
that the target language reader read the translation text with confidence, that the text they read
second like the original text.
Several Indonesian experts of translation such as Machala (2000-50) and Widyamartina notices
that Newmark methods of translation are the clearest and it can be observed in a translation
text. The use of translation methods depend on the translator needs whatever method he/she
uses, the main point in translation is to carry message in source language in to target language
well.
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1. Technical procedure:
a. Analysis of the source and target language.
b. A through study of the source language text before making attempt to translate it.
c. Making judgment of the semantic and syntactic approximation.
2. Organization procedure: constant reevaluation of the attempt made contrasting it with
the existing available. Translation of the same text done by another translator, and
checking the text communicative effectiveness and studying their reactions.
Seguinot (1989) believes that there are at least three global strategies employed by the
translator:
Furthermore, Bell (1998), differentiates between global and local strategies and uniforms that
this distinction result from various kinds of translation problems.
Jasas Kelainen (2005), divided strategies into two main categories:
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Proper names, which are defined by Richards (1985) as names of a particular person,
place or thing and are spelled with a capital letter play on an essential role in a literary
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works. For example let us consider personal PNs they may refer to the sitting social status
and neutrality of character, and really demand attention rendered into a foreign language,.
There are some models for rendering PNs in translation. One of these model is presented by
Harvey and Higgins (1986), who believe that there exist two strategies for translating PNs.
They point out, either the name can be taken over unchanged from the source language to
TL, or it can be adapted to confirm to the phonic conventions of the TL.
Regarding the translation of PNs Newmark (1988) asserts that normally people first and
sure name, the names are transferred, this preserving nationality assuming that their names
have no connotations in the text.
Various strategies opted for by translators and rendering allusions seems to play a crwwal role
in recognition of connotative carried by them. If a novice translator renders a literary text,
without paying attention to the allusions, the connotative likely not to be transferred, as a result
of the translators failure to acknowledge them. They will be entirely lost to the majority of the TL
readers and the translations will be ineffective.
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It can be claimed that the best translation method seem to be the one which allow translator to
utilize notes. Farther more: employing notes in the translation both as a translation strategy Commented [sh1]:
and a translation procedure seems to be indispensable so that the foreign language readership
could benefit from the text as the ST readers do.
Translation of Metaphor
1. Metaphor can be defined as a direct comparison between two are more apparently
unrelated things or subjects. The point of similarity maybe physical, but often it in chosen
for its connotations. (Newmark)
2. Newmark (1988) discuses a number of function of metaphor to show resemblances, to
create emotion effects, as an object of interest for media and lastly later becomes dead or
literal language.
3. According to him, translation theory is mainly concerned with the serious purpose of
metaphor, which is, describe on entity, events or quality complex way than is possible by
using literal language.
4. There are five terms using for metaphor, which define its various related concepts.
Firstly, object is the item describe by metaphor. Secondly, image is the item, or terms
of which the object is described. Thirdly sense is the point of similarity, between
object and image. Fourthly metaphor is the actual word taken up. Lastly, the
metonym is a one word image which used in place of the whole and has a potential to
become dead metaphor (literal language).
Types of metaphor
According to Newmark there are six kinds/types of metaphor:
1. Dead metaphor: that metaphor which related to universal terms of time and space,
general ecological features and main human activities. Dead metaphor have become
literal language because users dont recognize them as metaphor, so their images are
lost. Idioms, metonyms and words accepted as technical terms also become dead
metaphor. They add to the number of words in a language foot of a hill.
2. Clich: they lie between stock metaphors. There metaphor are as use as a substitute for
clear thought, often emotionally but, but without corresponding to the facts of the matter.
They usually consist of two types of collocation figurative adjective and literal noun e.g.
filthy lucre, or figurative verb and figurative noun e.g. explore all avenues.
3. Stock metaphor: according to Newmark stock metaphor are as an established ,metaphor
which is an informal context as an efficient and concise method of covering a physical
and are mental situation referentially and pragmatically, they may have cultural
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distance, maybe used universally or at least in a wide spread sense, and may have
subjective aspects.
4. Adapted metaphors: they are actually stock metaphor before adapted by the writer and
speaker into a new context.
5. Recent metaphor: these metaphor as a metaphorical neologism, often anonymously,
wined, which has spread rapidly in the SL they are often categorized as a slang.
6. Original metaphor: these metaphor are created or quoted by the SL writer. They contain
the core of an important writers message, his personality, and his comment on life.
These metaphor are not only complex but have double meaning. They might also contain
personal or dialectal irrational element particular to the imagination.
1. The same image is reproduce in TL. One word metaphor are commonly translated by this
method, while translation of complex metaphor or idioms depends on cultural overlap.
2. SL image can be replaced with a standard TL provided that it is actually compatible in
target language, and presumably coined by one diffused through popular speech.
Stereotyped metaphor should be converted to sense, whether they exist in TL or not.
3. The metaphor can be translated as a simile while retaining the image. This modifies the
shock of metaphor, particularly of TL text is not emotive in character. This procedure can
be used for any type of word, and original metaphor.
4. The metaphor can be translated as simile along with its sense (or metaphor plus sense).
This is a compromise procedure and combines communicative and semantic translation
together which address both layman and reader.
5. The metaphor can be converted into sense this procedure can be applied in any type of
text. To perform this procedure, the sense of metaphor should be analyzed be image is
pludst-dimensional.
6. SL text should not be authoritative or expression of writers personality, the translator
should make decision after imaging what is more important and less important in the
text.
7. Sometimes translator wants to make sure that image will be understood properly so he
adds a glass as well. This he transfers some metaphor along with it sense it the tongue
is a fire can be translated as a fire rains things, what we say also rain things. This
may suggest lack of confidence in metaphor, power and clarity, but it can be useful if
metaphor is repeated.
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Language
Nowadays, in common sense the language is just used for interaction or communication
between two or more than two persons. The language is a worldwide speaking tool that has
mostly used in many occasions, cultural dependent ceremonies, and in many others
The philologists classified the speech act in two classes: one is direct and other one is
indirect.
The direct speech always depends on the structure of sentence. For example if we say stop
making noise so this mean in Urdu Shor machana bas karo ya band karo, the Noise used
for Shor stop used bas karo ya band karo and making used for banana ya banaw.
After these the listeners or hearer understand that what the teacher or narrator want to
say.
Another one is indirect way, in this case the hearer mostly confused. For example, if you sit
in the computer library and your colleague asked from you are you teaching at nine? You
answered in short NO so he/she became confused and thought or saying in mind or lightly
maybe hes busy with computer or his mind is not ready to prepare a class. So in this case
mostly misunderstanding occur.
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Acknowledging that, numerous second language acquisition (SLA) studies have also focused
on the acquisition of speech acts, pragmatic awareness and pragmatic judgment. These
studies have covered various speech acts such as invitations, requests, greetings, refusals,
apologies and compliments. The present study highlights the significant contrasts in the
speech acts in the Urdu (an Indo-Aryan language spoken world widely due to South Asian
Diaspora) and English (Indo-European language) with regard to sex, level of formality,
structure and frequency etc. The study focuses on the intentions of the speakers and their
utterances (illocutionary, lectionary and per lectionary aspects of Speech Acts).
Speech acts do not occur in vacuum from other speech acts. For example, several speech
acts can occur consecutively forming what is known as a Speech Event. A speech event is an
important unit of analysis because it provides a context in which to examine the actual
relationship between the speaker and the utterance, on the particular occasion of use
(Brown and Yule, 1983).
The following are the results that have been discussed with special reference to Urdu
English speech acts. Greeting:
Greeting is a universal speech event found in all the cultures of the world. It is used by a very
large number of people on the basis of daily interaction.
Speech acts in English speech acts in Urdu
1- Good Morning 1- Assalam-o-Alaikum
2- Morning 2- Subh-o-bakher
3- Good Afternoon 3- Adaab
4- Good Evening 4- Khush Amdeed
5- Salam Alaikum/Sama Laikum
6- Salam
The range of speech acts in Urdu is more extensive than English. There are four expressions
in English whereas in Urdu there are six expressions. All English expressions are used quite
frequently. But in Urdu speech acts No. 1 and 5 are used quite often. The remaining four
speech acts are used rarely. These are not commonly used in daily interaction. The Urdu
speech act no. 3 is associated with typical Urdu speaking people. This expression is also
used in writing.
Structurally, there is only one expression in English that is in the form of a simple word and
this is also informal in approach. In Urdu, there are two expressions (3, 6) that are in
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discrete words. Three English speech acts are phrases and four Urdu speech acts are
phrases. All English speech acts are standardized and polite. All
English speech acts are formal except the second one, which is informal. In contrast, the first
five expressions in Urdu are standardized and the last one is the non-standard expression.
Except the last two speech acts which are informal and abrupt all the first four expressions
are quite formal and polite as well.
The range of special events in Urdu culture is wider than in English culture. There are
different religious customs in both of the language cultures. Birthday and marriage greetings
are common in both cultures.
The English speech acts are common in the conversation of native speakers. But all
Urdu speech acts are not common. The last three expressions in Urdu are slightly more
common with women. The remaining expressions are common in Urdu conversations.
Structurally, all English expressions can be used as phrases and sentences. The same is the
case with Urdu speech acts. Almost all English speech acts can be used formally as well as
informally. Similarly the Urdu expressions are also used formally as well as informally. But
the speech act related to the event of Chand Raat is informal. This speech act is generally
common among young girls and women.
Men use this expression but rarely. Similarly, the speech act of Eid-e-Mild-un-Nabi is formal
in approach. All expressions can be used directly or indirectly. Politeness is present there in
both language expressions.
Drawing attention:
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All English speech acts are used quite often in daily conversation. The Urdu speech acts are
also commonly used in communication. Urdu has many expressions, which are less
standardized while almost all English expressions are standardized. There are two formal
expressions (2, 5) in the English. The Urdu language has four formal expressions (3, 4, 8,
and 9). English has two informal expressions (1, 4) while Urdu has five informal expressions
(1, 2, 5, 6, 7). In Urdu there is no specific word for drawing attention on telephone in Urdu
so the English word hello is frequently used in Urdu also.
Gratitude:
English Speech Acts Urdu Speech Acts
1- thanks/Many thanks 1- Shukriya
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Speech acts (5, 7, and 9) are very formal expressions. These expressions are not only
common in communication but also in writing, especially the letter writing. All the speech
acts in both languages can be used formally as well as informally. The first three English
speech acts are used quite often in communication. In Urdu there are seven expressions that
are used frequently and the remaining four expressions are rare.
In English there is only one expression in the form of word thanks. Similarly Urdu has only
one expression in the form of word Shukriya both languages have only one phrase which is
many thanks in English and bohat Shukriya in Urdu. The seven expressions of English are
in the form of sentences and Urdu has eight speech acts in the form of sentences. All
expressions in English as well in Urdu are standardized and very common in use.
Grammatically, the expressions of both the languages are polite and direct.
Pleasure:
Pleasure is a feeling that contributes a lot in ones life.
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
It is lovely/beautiful 1- Zabardast
2- Very nice/wonderful/marvelous 2- Wah/Aha! Kitna khoobsurat hay
3- great/excellent 3- Wah bhai Wah
4- I have very much enjoyed 4- Kia baat hay!
5- I liked.a lot 5- Boht khoob/kia khoob hay
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Both languages have just one expression that is in the form of a word (1 in Urdu and 3 in
English). There are no expressions in English that are in phrases while in Urdu there are
three expressions (3, 5, and 8) in phrases. There are four expressions in Urdu, which are in
the form of sentences while in English there are ten expressions, which are in the form of
sentences. The expressions are generally in the form of adjectives and interjections in both
languages. All expressions in both Urdu and
English are standardized and people use these expressions commonly in their daily
conversations.
All English speech acts can be used formally as well as informally. In Urdu there is clear
distinction between formal and informal expressions. There is only one speech act (8) in
Urdu that is formal in approach. The other remaining speech acts are informal. Both
language expressions are mostly polite.
Surprise:
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
1- Oh! Oh no! 1- Wakaei
2- Really! 2- Mujhey yaqin nahi aa raha
3- What! (All question words) 3- Na mumkin
4- Impossible! 4- Ye nahi ho sakta
5- Incredible 5- Mein nahi manta/maanti
6- I cant believe it 6- Ye kesay ho sakta hay/mumkin hay
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Haey Allah ye sab kesay huaThere are thirteen speech acts in English whereas Urdu has
fourteen speech acts.
The expressions in Urdu seem to be the literal translation of English expressions.
Almost all English speech acts are used formally as well as informally. However, much
depends upon the circumstances in which people are communicating with each other. In
Urdu speech acts no. 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12 are formal as well as informal. Some expressions (4, 5,
7, 10, 11, and 14) are completely informal. Women typically use the last expression in Urdu
speech acts.
There is use of words, phrases and sentences in both languages. English has five expressions
(2, 3, 4, 5, and 13), which are in the form of words. Three expressions (1, 8, and 12) are in
phrasal forms. The remaining expressions are small sentences. In
Urdu five expressions (1, 3, 7, 8, and 10) are in the form of words. Some expressions (9, 11)
are phrases. The rest of the seven expressions are sentences.
English speech acts are quite common in use. But in Urdu there are some speech acts (9, 11
and 13) which are somewhat rare in common conversation. The rest of the expressions are
frequently used in communication. All English expressions are standardized and polite. In
Urdu there are four expressions which are non-standardized, the remaining expressions are
standardized. All expressions in Urdu are polite except one expression (11), which is rarely
used.
Apologizing:
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
1- I am very/terribly/awfully sorry 1- Mein muaffy chahta hoon/chahti hoon
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2- Id like to apologize for 2- Mein apnay kiey per sharminda /pasheiman hoon
3- Please forgive me/excuse me for.. 3- Muaaf ker do na bhai Ghalti ho gai
4- I really must apologize for.. 4- Mein apni kotahi per maazrat khwa hoon
5- Sorry about/for that 5- Mujhey both afsos/nidamat/ranj hay
6- Brah-e-meharbani meri khata ko darguzar ker dein
7- Mein api herkat per muafi ka/ki talabgar /khawastgar hoon
8- Janab ghalti ho gai muaaf ker dein9- Bhai gustakhi muaaf ayenda aesa nahi ho ga
10- Khuda kay wastay mujhey bakhsh dein
11- Khata muaaf/meri tauba
The range of Urdu expressions is much wider than those of English expressions.
English has only five expressions but in Urdu there are eleven expressions. All speech acts in
English are commonly used in communication. In Urdu some expressions (1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 8) are very common and the rest of five expressions are rare in Urdu. Speech act no.
4, 6 and 7 are more common in writing than in speaking.
Almost all English expressions are formal which can be used informally as well.
But all Urdu expressions are not formal. Three expressions (3, 9 and 11) are informal.
Just one expression (5) can be used formally as well as informally. All the remaining
expressions are formal.
Structurally all English expressions are sentences. In Urdu the last expression is a phrase
but all of the remaining expressions are sentences. All English expressions are standardized
and polite. But in Urdu eight expressions are standardized and three non-standardized.
Speech acts 4, 6 and 7 in Urdu are more polite than the other expressions.
Forgiving:
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
1- OK 1- Achha bhai ab chhoro usay bhool jao
2- All right 2- Nahi nahi aesi koi baat nahi
3- Dont worry 3- Nahi koi baat nahi sab theek hay
4- Never mind 4- Dafa karo matti dalo jo hona tha ho gia
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
24
6- It wasnt your fault 6- Chalein muaaf kiya, kia yaad karein gay kis sakhi say pala para
hay
7- It was no bodys fault 7- Chhorein sahib garhey murday okhaarnay ka kia fayda
8- Chalein chhorein laikin aeynda ehtyat kijeiy ga
9- Arey ab rehnay bhi dein,samjhein raat gai baat gai
The range of speech acts in Urdu is wider than in English. There are only seven expressions
in English but in Urdu there are nine expressions. All speech acts in
English are used quite often. OK, Alright, Never mind are very commonly used
expressions among the native speakers of English. In Urdu the expressions (4, 7 and 9) are
not very common and rare in use. All the remaining expressions are commonly used.
Structurally there seems to be a great contrast in both languages. O.K. is the only
expression in English which is in the form of abbreviation. Speech acts no. 2, 4 and 5 are
phrases. The rest of the expressions are sentences. But in Urdu all of the expressions are in
sentences. All expressions in English are standardized. Urdu has also standardized form but
expression no. 6 is an idiomatic sentence very common in interaction of Urdu speaking
people.
Almost all expressions in English are formal and these can be used informally also.
In Urdu, expressions (2 & 3) can be used formally as well as informally. Just three
expressions (7, 8 and 9) are formal and all the other expressions in Urdu are informal.
English speech acts are polite but this tendency in Urdu is lesser one than that of English.
Disappointment:
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
1- Oh hell/damn 1- Meri to samajh mein nahi aa raha kay ab kia ho ga
2- Oh dear/no! 2- Meri to aqal jawab day gai hay, maloom nhai ye muamla kesay hal ho ga
3- How disappointing! 3- Afsos kia socha tha or kia ho gia
4- I had so hoped. 4- Ab to kuch nhai ho sakta Allah he hafiz hay
5- It doesnt matter I suppose 5- Kia faiyda hua itni mehnat kernay ka
6- It cant be helped 6- Oh yeh kia ho gia
7- What a pity/shame/nuiance 7- Laanat hay is kaam per bhai
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
25
9- Dafa karo jo hona hay wo to ho ga kia, hum ker bhi kia saktay heinThe range of speech
acts in Urdu is wider than in English. There are eight expressions in English and nine
expressions in Urdu. All the expressions both in
English and Urdu are commonly used in conversations. Structurally, Urdu speech acts are
complete sentences whereas in English expressions (1, 2, 3 and 8) are phrases and the
remaining expressions are sentences.
Almost all the expressions in English are standardized whereas in Urdu expressions (6 & 9)
are less standardized and the remaining expressions are standardized. All
English expressions are formal in use. The first three speech acts in Urdu can be used
formally as well as informally and the remaining six are informal. All English speech acts
are direct expressions. Urdu speech acts are also direct in nature.
Fear or worry:
Speech Acts in English Speech Acts in Urdu
1- I am afraid/scared/frightened/worried 1- Mujhey to us waqt ka soch ker he dar lag raha
hay
2- It worries/scares/frightens me 2- Agar ye masla hal na hua to kia ho ga
3- I dont like this at all 3- Allah kher karey pata nahi kia ho ga
4- It makes me feel uneasy 4- Agar aisa na hua to Qayamat barpa ho jaey gi
5- I am not at all happy about..
6- There is something not quite right about..
7- I have got a nasty/strange/uneasy feeling that.
The range of English expressions is comparatively more extensive than that of Urdu.
Urdu speech acts can be increased according to the requirements. All the expressions of both
languages are frequently used in common conversations. Structurally, all the expressions in
English and Urdu are in sentences.
All English and Urdu expressions can be used formally as well informally. All
English and Urdu expressions are in standardized forms in this typical speech event.
The element of politeness is greater in English than in Urdu. The expression no. 4 in
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
26
Urdu is rather a warning and very less polite in nature. All English expressions can be used
in direct narration. All Urdu speech acts are used directly as well as indirectly in
communication.
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
27
how we can consider the varieties of a general meaning. Ex: 'Frustrated scientist jumps to
death'.
a) Linguistic Meaning: It is possible to state the linguistic meaning of the above sentence in
another language by way of direct translation. If we have to reward it or state the same in
the same language then we have to have explained each word of original sentence using
some other words in the same language. For example, we would then say: 'A person who is
an expert in science ended his life by jumping from the 5th floor of a building for he was very
depressed.'
b) Referential: Referential meaning is similar to that of dictionary meaning. This meaning
derives from the expression's relationship to reality or to the referent. According to
referential theory, a sentence or a word has a meaning for it refers to something other than
itself. Ex: a 45-year old Scientist Mr. X jumped from the fifth floor of the building at 3 p.m.
on 5th January 1994.
c) Intention: We understand that the person who jumped to death was frustrated either by
the academic situation in the country or by his personal failures either in life or in
academics. This may be considered as the intentional meaning of the above sentence.
d) Performative: Perhaps Mr. X was making a statement about our society and social
conditions in the above-cited example. The particular act of Mr. X has an ability to make
certain effect on the society. This meaning may be called performative meaning.
e) Inferential: This is related to various inferences one can draw from the text. Ex: it is a
'scientist', and not a 'linguist' who jumped off 'in frustration', or he did not jump 'with joy, et.
f) Cultural: Any text is produced and made meaningful only in a cultural context in the above
text extract 'jump' acquires a special meaning in the context of English. Construction like the
one we are dealing with may not be possible in certain other language/ cultures.
For example, kannada doesn't allow such constructions. In this All texts may be regarded by
the translator as an amalgam of standardized and non-standardized language", says
Newmark (1981:16).Technical terms, vocabularies of various types, scientific literature,
academic papers and books, commonly used metaphors, proverbs, public notices, medical
reports, legal documents, etc. use standardized, non-regional, non-class language. While
translating such texts a translator must use the equivalent standardized language of TL
culture. There should be only one equivalent for the words used in the SL text, provided one
exists in TL and is used in the same situations. In the absence of correct equivalents, a
translator has to create one by extension of meaning of nearest equivalent by creating one or
by borrowing one. But this should suit to parameters of the standard language in TL culture.
It is also imperative to use the same word and its various forms in similar contexts. Creative
literature is the best example for the use of non-standardized language.
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
28
Here a translator has comparatively more freedom and has scope for his creative energy and
imagination. But 'here too, the scientific method operates' cautions Peter Newmark, for the
sense of the translation, stretch of language, naturalness of the translation acceptability etc.
must be tested either against the original or TL culture and tradition. Secondly, the
translator must have a keen sense and knowledge of both Source language / Culture and
Target Language / Culture which helps him to determine with an "intuition backed by
empirical knowledge" to design his translation in a particular manner choosing an
appropriate method.411.8.6: SUMMARY In this unit we have discussed how the notion of the
'text' and meaning are constantly referred to in translation theory.
A student of translation has to have a conception of the notion of 'text' in order to analyze
and categorize translatable texts into different text-types. Peter Newmark does this job by
considering the functions of language, following Karl Bhhler and Jackobson model of
communication, according to which the main language functions are 'expressive',
'informative' and 'vocative'. Creative literature, authoritative statements, autobiographies,
personal correspondence, etc. are expressive text-types. In informative texts, 'truth' precedes
the style. Informative texts are intended to keep the reader well-informed. They make use of
standard, non-class, non-regional language. Vocative texts are reader-centered and are
intended to provoke the readership to think, feel and act in a way intended by the text.
If semantic translation with certain latitude is suitable for expressive texts, the informative
and vocative texts are suitable for communicative translation method. All the texts are an
amalgam of standard and non-standard language and a translator must be sensitive to this
fact. Meaning plays an important role in translation. According to Newmark, varieties of
general meaning are: the linguistic, the referential, the subjective, the intentional, the
performative, the inferential, the cultural, the code, the connotative and the semiotic
meanings.
This classification is done from a practicing translator's point of view. It is important to note
for us that the text-categories, text-types and varieties of meanings proposed by Newmark are
only helpful tools for a translator rather than being translational rules. Every translator has
to make his/her own decision on the basis of his/her text/SL and TL conditions. The notion of
text and meaning are problematized in literary theory, philosophy, and anthropology, etc. As
translators and translation theorists, we must be aware of this fact. However, for a
practicing translator Peter Newmark's categories would help to a contain extent. Points to
Remember QUESTIONSA .Answer the following questions:
1. What are the three main functions of language - Explain.
2. Describe how to distinguish text-language and text-types on the basis of language
functions?
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad
29
3. Discuss text-categories, text-types and the methods of translation suitable for each type.
4. Explain with example the varieties of general meaning.
B. Write short notes on
(I)Jacobsons distinction of minor functions of language.
(ii)Expressive function.
(iii)Language functions.
(iv) Standardized and non-standardized texts .
411.8.7: REFERENCES Newmark, Peter. 1981. Approaches to Translation.
Oxford: Pergamum Press. _____. 1988. A Text-Book of Translation. New York: Prentice-
Hall. Nida, E.A. 1964. Toward a Science of Translating. Leiden: E.J. Brill. Alston,
William, P.1988. Philosophy of Language. New Delhi: Prentice- Hall of India. Fowler,
Roger. 1977. Linguistics and the Novel. London: Methuen. Annand, Mulk Raj. 1981.
Untouchable. New Delhi: Arnold-Heinemann. Ramanujan, A.K. (Ed. And Trans.) 1973.
Speak
Written by Lecturer Khizar Hayat English deportment Govt. Degree college Gulabad
Composed by Shahid Hilal BS English 7th semester GDC Gulabad