The Dissemination And Acceptance Of Nida's Translation Theory In China

Eugene A. Nida, contemporary American translation theorist, is one of the most influential scholars around the whole world. Nida's theory has covered many aspects concerning translation studies, such as the nature and definition of translation, the principle of translation, the standards to judge translation, etc. Nida's translation theory is introduced into China in the beginning of 1980s, and since its introduction, his theory has exerted long and deep influence on translation theory studies and translation practice in China. Based on the achievements of predecessors, this article first provides an overall view of the situation of Nida's translation theory since its initial introduction. Then in the second chapter, this thesis moves on to the analysis of the reasons which contribute to the popularity and criticism of Nida's theory in China. The focus of the last chapter lies in the rethinking of Nida's theory. In recent years, Nida himself has substantially changed his ideas; hence, it is quite necessary to rethink Nida's theory and its influences in China. And then based on the discussion of Nida's theory, this chapter also explores the limitations in the process of accepting western translation theories and the dialectical view we should take on them.