基于模因论的汉语公示语英译探讨

Application of Memetics in the Translation of Chinese Public Signs

从模因论角度看,语言本身就是一种模因并作为模因载体进行传播。模因通过语言进行跨文化传播的过程就是源语模因得到传播并产生等效语用功能的过程。公示语作为一种独特的语言应用文体,可以看作是语言模因集合中的特殊因子。在明确公示语的语言及社会语用特征的前提下,将模因论引入公示语英译研究领域,可以为公示语的得体英译提供有效策略,如直接引入目的语模因,侧重复制核心模因等。

According to memetics, language itself is a meme and spreads as the carrier of other memes. The process of spreading memes interculturally is that of spreading source language and producing equivalent pragmatic function. As a special practical language, public signs with their specific features can be regarded as the unique element of the meme set. Therefore, some effective translating strategies offered by translation memetics are also applicable to Chinese-English translation of public signs, such as bringing in target language memes directly or just copying its core memes etc.