Relevance-Based Approach to Translation of Contemporary Popular Science Texts

Larisa Iļinska,Oksana Ivanova,Tatjana Smirnova

doi:10.15388/vertstud.2019.3

Abstract

In the present paper, the authors analyze a translation process implemented within the framework of Relevance Theory using Adaptation Theory as a tool to ensure relevance in the translation of popular science texts. The paper is part of ongoing research dedicated to the development of methodology for translation of popular science texts on architecture, ICT, and economics, focused here on translating from English into Latvian. Recognizing that relevance in translation is a qualitative category, the authors suggest measuring it along two dimensions: the plane of content and the plane of expression. Having defined four categories of relevance, the authors have developed a grid that may be recommended as a guide in a translator’s decision-making process for selecting a particular adaptive strategy and translation method.

Highlights

In recent decades, translation studies have been increasingly adopting the theoretical and methodological framework of cognitive science for the study of cognitive processes underlying translation as a complex mental activity
Application of interdisciplinary approaches to translation analysis has contributed to the development of new translation models, revision and re-formulation of the set of necessary translator competences and development of new translation methods
As Shreve and Diamond (1997: 246) observe, “translation is the result of the complex integration of a variety of common cognitive mechanisms acting over specific configuration of neural sites”

Summary

Introduction

Translation studies have been increasingly adopting the theoretical and methodological framework of cognitive science for the study of cognitive processes underlying translation as a complex mental activity. Both theories formulate the principles of meaning making, focusing on the type of information that is relevant, deserves attention or needs explanation. Within these theories, the translator should adapt translation strategies ensuring the necessary degree of relevance of the transferred information so that the communicative intention of the author of the original text can be properly conveyed to the target reader. The authors analyze a cognitive approach to translation process implemented within the framework of Relevance Theory and using Adaptation Theory as a tool to ensure relevance in translation of popular science texts. Integrating the premises of Relevance Theory and Adaptation Theory in the translation process allows producing texts that remain entertaining, appealing and reader-friendly without compromising their content precision and information load

Adaptation as a strategy ensuring relevance in translation

Translation methods

Empirical data

Concluding remarks