On Translating Words With Chinese Characteristics Under The Perspective Of Functionalist Translation Theory

This thesis probes into the features of words with Chinese characteristics, its translation strategies and methods from the debate of English transaltion of "Bu Zhe Teng " in the functionalist theoretic account. Firstly, the author summerizes Functionlist Translation Theory as a theoretical system guided by the Skopos with plural translation standards, and certificates the explanatory power in translating words with Chinese characteristcs. For the theory, the specific translation strategy and method are justified by the translation brief, different functions of texts as well as the initiator's requirments. The target text will fully manifest the functional, communicative and cross-cultural features of translation. Secondly, in light of the Functionalist Translation Theory, strategies and methods in translating words with Chinese characteristics are being recommended through the analysis on the translated examples from cross-cultural and pragmatical aspects. With the definition, classifications, translatability and untranslatability of words with Chinese characteristics, five translation methods in translating are being tested. Finally, the author ventures a guiding principle and the criterions governing the translation of these words through the analysis on Englsih translation versions of "Bu Zhe Teng". The translator should choose the translation strategy and the concrete methods which are in line with the pursuit of choosing optimal maintenance of Chinese culture in the particular context and practical function of translation.This paper aims at proving that functionalist theory is not only powerful in providing a theoretical orientation in general, but also effective in guiding the translator to render words with Chinese characteristics into English on one hand, and providing a fresh and different perspective for the C-E translation of words with Chinese characteristics researches so as to make the original author's intention and the target audience's expectation meet on the other hand.