基于文本类型理论的汉语公示语英译研究——以广州地铁公示语为例

Research on Signs Translation in Guangzhou Metro Guided by Text Type Theory

公示语是在公共场所向公众宣示的一种实用型文本,公示语翻译在为外国友人提供信息服务与规范其行为等方面发挥重要作用。基于赖斯的文本类型理论,对公示语进行分类,并对地铁公示语的英文翻译进行重点研究,将交通公示语特别是地铁公示语概括性地分为信息型公示语和感染型公示语。通过分析广州地铁公示语的英文翻译,提出信息型公示语和感染型公示语翻译应当遵循的四个原则,即准确性、统一性、功能性、简洁性。

A public sign is a kind of practical text in the public places. The translation of public signs plays an important role in providing information and guidance for foreign visitors. Based on Reiss’ s theory of type of texts, this article classifies public signs into two types and focuses on the translation of signs in Guangzhou metro system. Four basic principles of sign translation are generalized by analyzing the translation of different types of signs in metro system. They are accuracy, consistency, functionality and conciseness.