On Untranslatability Of Chinese Dish Names

In this thesis the author attempts to analyze and study Chinese dish names from the aspect of untranslatability. Debates about it are one of the most heated issues about translation. We should insist that translation is possible due to the similarity of human experience, linguistic and cultural universality, but on the other hand we have to admit the fact that there are some insurmountable obstacles and difficulties in translation practices owing to linguistic and cultural disparities. To analyze the issue from the angle of untranslatability, we will be more objective and easier to find more problems in translation practice, which will promote the development of translation.This thesis highlights the influence of cultural untranslatability on translation of Chinese dish names. It is emphasized that as an important part of Chinese unique cuisine culture, Chinese dish names always are culture-loaded, which are influenced by thinking, beliefs and values, customs, history, and the like. These cultural elements which are embodied in Chinese dish names have become the insurmountable obstacles when translating them into English.Although untranslatable elements surely exist, translatability is the leading aspect of contradiction. So when we translate those dish names which consist of untranslatable elements, we should find some compensative measures to decrease the loss of cultural meaning. In this thesis, on the basis of analyzing untranslatability of Chinese dish names, the author classifies the Chinese dish names in detail. According to the features of each group, the author proposes certain techniques to translate those Chinese dish names.