菜单汉英翻译的顺应研究

The Chinese-English Translation of Menu from the Perspective of Adaptation Theory

顺应论认为人们使用语言的过程是一个基于语言内部和外部原因、在不同的意识程度下不断作出语言选择的过程。根据这一理论,菜单的汉英翻译可以被视为一个选择过程,这一过程被它的三个属性所决定,即:变异性、商讨性和顺应性。和其他语言使用类型一样,菜单翻译受制于语言及社会—文化习俗。译者应当在翻译过程当中有意识地在目标语语言和社会文化范畴做出动态的顺应,以得到理想的菜单译文。

Adaptation theory holds that using language must consist of the continuous making of linguistic choices, consciously or unconsciously for language internal and/or language external reasons. Accordingly, the Chinese-English translation of menu can be regarded as a process of making choice, which is based on its three properties, namely, variability, negotiability and adaptability. Like other language using types, the C-E translation of menu should adapt to socio-cuhural convention. Therefore, to get relatively ideal English versions of menu, it is advisable for a translator to make dynamic adaptations with varying degrees, from the target language itself to the socio-cultural factors.