Decoding Source Text Ellipsis In Translation Under The Economy Principle Of Language

This thesis makes a study on decoding source text ellipsis. Ellipsis is a common linguistic phenomenon in language use and so it is the case with Jane Austin's novel Pride and Prejudice.On many occasions, the main purpose of using ellipsis is to avoid redundancy so the language will be shorter and simpler. However, ellipsis is not merely used for that purpose, especially in literary works. As a result, it is difficult to apprehend the real meaning of ellipsis and to decode it in literary translation. As each language has its own unique characteristics, translators are required to make adjustments to form a smooth and coherent version for the target readers. Generally speaking, two strategies are usually adopted to handle ellipsis in translation, namely, to supplement the elided information or to follow the ellipsis pattern as shown in the source text. However, if translators make supplement, they would add extra words which will make the translated versions seemly longer and redundant. However, if they follow the ellipsis pattern of the source text, misunderstanding or ambiguity may appear. The Economy Principle of language will give us some enlightenment.The principle of economy does not mean that "be brief is the most important. What it really implies is that relatively economical and simpler expressions are preferred to achieve more and optimal communicative effects. The author holds that in literary translation the translated texts should be economical and expressive under the guidance of Economy Principle of Language. Economy Principle can be made up of three factors: be clear, be concise, and be expressive.On the basis of this principle, the author will make a comparative study of the two Chinese versions of Pride and Prejudice. By comparison, the author tries to find similarities and differences of different versions concerning ellipsis management. One of the aims of this thesis is to promote understanding of ellipsis and how to decode it in translation. Another aim is that by investigating how to decode it in literary translation the author hopes this thesis may contribute to achieve clearer and more concise and expressive translations.