Translation with Appropriate Adaptation

In the realm of translation that most people encounter, the translations found in the College English Tests (CET-4 and CET-6) are certainly among the most talked about. During the exam periods, various amusing mistranslations often find their way to trending topics on Weibo. One cannot help but admire the creativity of students, with one of the most classic examples being the phrase "滴水之恩，当涌泉相报," which was translated as "You didadida I, I hualahuala you." While this might not be difficult for Chinese speakers to understand, the goal of translation is to ensure comprehension by the target language users, making this a clear example of an incorrect approach. Such spontaneous adaptations are not uncommon; under the limited time constraints of exams, most students tend to process their translations from the perspective of Chinese readers, linking them to expressions they can comprehend. According to relevance theory, people’s cognition tends to align with what is most relevant, leading them to automatically focus on the information they find most connected during communication. Thus, when familiar Chinese speakers read the phrase "You didadida I, I hualahuala you," they not only understand it but also find it quite humorous.

While we can chuckle at these translations, we recognize that the charm of translation goes beyond mere entertainment. Translation is a communicative activity, and since relevance theory plays a guiding role in communication, our translations should similarly aim for maximum relevance for foreign readers, allowing them to achieve an understanding of the original text with minimal effort. Of course, we may not be able to express the profound essence of Chinese culture accurately within the time constraints of an exam, especially when dealing with classical or archaic texts. In such cases, the most effective approach is for the translator to explain the intended meaning through free translation. The standard translation for "滴水之恩，当涌泉相报" is "Receiving drips of water when in need, and I shall return the kindness with a spring." This translation not only conveys the essence of what we wish to express to English speakers but also retains the original charm of the phrase.

As Chinese culture grows increasingly confident, we must continually deepen our understanding of our own culture while boldly showcasing it on the world stage. Translation thus becomes the bridge between China and the world. The Bible stands as the most translated literary work globally, with translations available in 2,932 languages, thereby facilitating its cultural dissemination across the globe. Consequently, Chinese translators have a significant responsibility ahead of them, as the principles of translation evolve with the times, and the direction of refinement shifts accordingly, while the constant remains: helping readers grasp the deeper meanings. In an ever-tightening global landscape, opportunities for the world to hear China's voice abound. In the post-pandemic era, China’s great power responsibilities and commitments have garnered international recognition; therefore, we who adapt spontaneously must take up the microphone and spread the "Chinese voice" far and wide.

◀️：From mistranslations of "East Asian style" in South Korea to resisting cultural appropriation

▶️：What is Translation?