The Application of Peter Newmark’s Theory in Translating the Public Signs in the Scenic Spots

Abstract

This paper mainly focuses on the research of Peter Newmark’s theory, namely the communicative approach and the semantic approach in translating the public signs in the scenic spots. Public signs were collected around the West Lake. Then I classify the public signs to which approach could apply. Under the principle of either approach, through the careful study of the public signs, I re-translate these public signs. The classification would increase the feasibility of the translation. In the process of translation, some problems are founded, such as spelling mistakes. The two theories have their advantages, so we can combine them when we put them into practice. Key words: Communicative approach; Semantic approach; Public signs; Classification