Translation Techniques for Long Arabic Sentences

In translation, one of the most challenging tasks is handling long sentences. A long sentence does not merely refer to its length but rather to its complex grammatical structure, which often includes multiple clauses and modifiers, conveying profound meanings. Translators frequently encounter such sentences in their work; authors may use several clauses or modifiers to fully describe an object or to avoid the repetitive use of many short sentences. While this type of sentence can be easier to read for those fluent in the language, it presents a considerable challenge for translators when attempting to convert these lengthy constructs into another language while ensuring clarity and completeness.

Regardless of the language, the first step in translating long sentences is to dissect the components of the sentence: identifying the subject, verb, and object, and understanding the general meaning. After that, the translator can tackle the clauses or modifiers to complete the sentence. This fundamental approach is essential, as a good translator not only needs excellent translation skills but also must possess writing abilities to integrate and refine the translated content according to the conventions of the target language, making it more comprehensible. During this process, the translator can adjust the order of presentation, employing several common methods:

1. Simple Structure: If the sentence structure is straightforward and logically organized, translate it in the same order as the original text.

2. Rearranging Order: If the original sentence's order does not align with the target language's writing conventions, alter the sequence for clarity.

3. Positioning Modifiers: When there are adjectives, adverbs, or other clauses in the sentence, position these components at the beginning or end based on the norms of the target language.

4. Breaking Down Long Sentences: If the original sentence is excessively long and difficult to organize, consider breaking it down into phrases or independent sentences.

5. Adjusting Fixed Phrases: If the original contains fixed expressions that do not conform to the writing style of the target language, they can be modified during translation.

The difficulty in translating long sentences lies in discerning the primary and secondary components of the sentence, pinpointing main ideas, and structuring them appropriately to produce an accurate and smooth translation. Additionally, translators should analyze specific cases individually; for instance, four-character phrases or idioms in Chinese may not have direct equivalents in other languages, requiring the translator to adapt the message according to the context while maintaining the essence of the original.

In Arabic translation, long sentences are also common, often including subjects, predicates, incomplete verbs, verb conjugations, pronouns, and various clauses. The length can make it hard to identify key points. Translators need to focus on keywords, using the principles of gender agreement to find the relationships between subjects and verbs, as well as linking incomplete verbs with nouns. Identifying the core structure of the sentence is crucial, followed by analyzing other clauses and modifiers to refine the overall translation.

Regardless of the field, anyone engaged in translation will encounter difficult and lengthy sentences. Mastering translation techniques and practicing diligently are the best ways to address these challenges.

◀️：Translation Techniques for Long and Complex English Sentences

▶️：A Brief Overview of the Differences Between Chinese and English