Choosing a Translation Type
Dynamic Equivalent or Word for Word Rendering of the Original
Feb 24, 2008
When called upon to translate a document, whether it be a legal record, a medical record, a fiction work or a non-fiction piece, the translator has a very important decision to make. Will he translate the document word for word providing a verbatim rendering, or will he provide a dynamic equivalent?
The Dynamic Equivalent Translation
This type of translation takes into account the context and apparent intent of the original. When providing a dynamic equivalent translation, the translator considers the culture of the original document, understands the nuances of the original language, and takes into account idiomatic expressions. The result is a finished product that comes alive to the reader with the actual intent of the original. The key components of a dynamic equivalent translation include the following:
- Correct understanding of idiomatic expressions. A good translator must be able to recognize idiomatic expressions and accurately translate them into the target language. Idioms lend color and flavor to any language, and a good writer knows how to use an idiomatic expression appropriately to help his reader more clearly understand his intent. The translator needs to be able to convey this meaning in the target language so that the reader understands the author's original meaning.
- Consideration of the author's culture. Every culture is different, and understanding those differences is what differentiates an average translator from an outstanding translator. When a translator understands the cultural background that has influenced the author in the writing of the original, it may help him better choose the precise wording to convey the sense of culture the author intended. However, the translator must be careful here not to overstep by adding more than the author originally intended. A dynamic equivalent translation is still a translation; it must never become a cultural treatise!
- Careful understanding of the nuances of the original language. All languages have words with multiple meanings. A precise translator must understand the nuances of language that only come from proficient use and extended practice with a language. A strong dynamic equivalent translation will have just the right word to express the sense of the original.
Resources for Dynamic Equivalent Translations
Depending upon the target language, a variety of resources exist for translators seeking to provide good, strong dynamic equivalent translations. A well-equipped library might offer a variety of dictionaries that will contain idiomatic expressions. However, some dictionaries may not help the translator grasp the nuances of meaning that one word can have. A couple of online sites provide help to the professional translator.
- Pro Z bills itself as "The Translation Workplace." It offers vocabulary in a variety of target languages in disciplines ranging from law to medicine to business to the arts. For the translator working on a specific type of document, this site can be most helpful.
- Wordreference is another site that provides extensive help to the translator. This site, however, is limited to English, Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese. This site does include many idiomatic expressions, which is very useful for creating a dynamic equivalent translation.
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