As the need for translation grows stronger, it becomes clear that the act of translating is more than just the simple conversion of words from one language to another from a purely linguistic standpoint. Instead, it encompasses a human aspect, as well as social and functional dimensions.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of functional translation has become more apparent, emphasizing the need for translations that are not only linguistically accurate but also culturally relevant and effective.
In fact, a translator is theoretically knowledgeable about both cultures involved in the process and is ethically obliged to mediate in a way that does not deceive the source text’s author, the target text’s recipients, or the client who commissioned the translation.
The Role of Culture and Language in Translation
Humanity has always sought ways to express its beliefs and cultural practices. This pursuit arises from the human need to share, communicate, and connect with others of the same species, leading to practices and behavioral patterns unique to each community. These cultures can be similar or very different, but each has influenced history, politics, painting, theater, and more. Their impact is also seen in translation, interpretation, and linguistics.
Language, on the other hand, is an essential part of culture and civilization. Swiss linguist Ferdinand de Saussure, in his “Course in General Linguistics,” emphasized the structural nature of language, viewing it as a system of signs that exists within a cultural context. Language acquisition is a collective phenomenon, making language one of the inseparable characteristics of culture. This interconnectedness implies that understanding the cultural context is crucial for effective translation. Translators serve, then, as intercultural mediators.
What is Functional Translation?
Initially, translation was viewed purely as a linguistic exercise—converting text from language A to language B. However, it soon became clear that understanding the cultural context is essential for a translation to retain the same impact as the original text. In 2001, Spanish professor, translator and researcher Hurtado Albir highlighted that translation occurs not just between languages but also between cultures; it is intercultural communication.
Functional translation focuses on the purpose of the translated text. Unlike traditional methods that prioritize literal accuracy, functional translation considers the context, audience, and intended effect of the text in the target language. This approach ensures that the translated text is meaningful and relevant to the new audience.
Translation Purpose and Principles for Functional Translation
Hans Vermeer’s skopos theory, introduced in 1978, underscores this concept. “Skopos” is a Greek word meaning ‘purpose.’ According to the theory, both translation and interpretation should primarily consider the function of the source and target texts. For instance, if a text’s function is to sell a product, it must be adapted to have the desired impact on the target audience. This adaptation goes beyond language to include customs, world knowledge, and audience preferences. Really similar to the concept of localization, don’t you think?
The German translation scholar Christiane Nord outlined seven principles that guide functional translation:
1. The principle of functionality: The translated text must serve the same function as the original text. For example, an instruction manual should inform and guide, while a marketing brochure should persuade and attract.
2. The principle of loyalty: Loyalty involves balancing fidelity to the source text and adaptation to the target audience. The translator must respect the original content and intentions while making it accessible and meaningful to the new audience.
3. The objective established by the client: The translation should meet the specific objectives set by the client. Whether the text aims to inform, entertain, persuade, or instruct, the translator must understand and fulfill these goals.
4. The function: The translator must identify the text’s function and reproduce it in the target language, ensuring the translated text fulfills the same role as the original.
5. The function defined by the receivers: The target audience’s cultural and linguistic background significantly influences the translated text. The translator must adapt the text to be understandable and relevant to the audience, ensuring it resonates with them while maintaining the original message’s core.
6. Translation based on the identification of the function of the text: Understanding what the original text aims to achieve helps create a translation that serves the same purpose in the target culture.
7. The function of the target text: The function of the translated text may not always align perfectly with the source text. The translator must adapt the translated text to ensure it is functional and effective in the target language.
Practical Applications of Functional Translation
Functional translation is vital in various fields, such as marketing, legal, technical, and literary translation. For example, instructional texts like user manuals or recipes often need adaptation to fit cultural expectations. English manuals tend to be more detailed than their Spanish counterparts. Translating such a manual too faithfully might make Spanish-speaking users feel underestimated and lead them to ignore the instructions.
Advertising texts also illustrate the need for functional translation. An ad written for an American audience may reference cultural elements unfamiliar to a Spanish audience. If these references are not adapted, the ad may fail to engage and persuade the new audience, thus not fulfilling its purpose.
Movie translations, particularly in dubbing children’s films, show functional translation in action. The goal is to entertain children in the target language as much as in the original. This requires adapting jokes, references, and language to suit the new audience. While not all translations need such extensive adaptation, this example highlights the importance of making translations culturally and contextually appropriate.
Translation is a complex interplay of language and culture, and as global communication continues to grow, the importance of functional translation in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps becomes ever more crucial.
If you are passionate about languages and cultures and you want to become an expert in translation and intercultural communication, don’t miss out on our Master’s Degree. TCLoc, is designed for professionals like you, who are eager to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps.
