On The Application Of Semiotic Meaning Theory To Translation

Meaning is the kernel issue of translation, and the nature of translation is the corresponding transference of meaning from one language to another. However, the previous meaning studies in translation are not comprehensive and the theoretical models put forward are unpractical for translators. In order to solve this problem, the author makes an attempt to apply semiotic meaning theory to translation studies and aims to establish an analytical framework for meaning transference.The thesis starts with a general review of meaning studies in translation, which indicates the need for a more powerful interpretation of meaning in translation. Following on, modern semiotics, especially Morris' semiotic meaning theory is expounded in detail. Then, it comes to the recognition that semiotics meaning theory is a holistic approach to meaning and thus exerts great applicability to translation studies. In order to confirm this understanding, English poetry translation is taken as the case to examine the process of meaning transference on the basis of Morris' trichotomy of meaning, namely, referential meaning, linguistic meaning and pragmatic meaning. Through the micro-level study on some examples, the author finds that referential meaning, linguistic meaning and pragmatic meaning can not be totally transferred into the target language owing to linguistic or non-linguistic factors, but there also exist various techniques to handle them properly in practice.In conclusion, semiotic meaning theory provides a comprehensive framework for all-round analysis of meaning in translation. The research displays both theoretical and practical significance to translation studies.