Translation Of Business English From The Perspective Of Textual Functional Equivalence

There are a variety of equivalent forms in the translation, such as"formal equivalence","pragmatic equivalence", and"functional equivalence". In recent years, more and more researches have focused on this area; the"equivalence"discussion has also been a hot topic in the translation studies. This thesis attempts to discuss the basic translation principles and strategies for business English from the perspective of textual functional equivalence based on Halliday's systemic functional linguistics.This thesis first of all reviews the three metafunctions of systemic functional linguistics, focusing on the introduction of thematic structure, cohesion and information structure in the textual metafunction. Then, the thesis makes a systematic analysis of features of business English on three levels of vocabulary, syntax and discourse, and summarizes the principles and current situations of business English translation. After that, with analysis of a large number of examples, the thesis discusses how to achieve thematic equivalence, cohesion equivalence, and informational equivalence in the business English translation. Finally, according to the characteristics of business English, the thesis studies the instructive significance of textual functional equivalence theory to business English, and puts forward some specific strategies and techniques for business English translation.Through the analysis of these examples, we find that thematic structure, cohesion and information structure have a great significance for understanding the source language text and building the target language text. It will be best if we can retain the original structure, but if we can't, the translator should respect the expression habits of different languages, and make some appropriate structural conversion. For example, either unmarked or marked simple Themes in English are often translated into Rhemes in Chinese; in order to achieve cohesion, we often apply word-for-word strategies, elliptical strategies and converted strategies; when the New information or Given information used as a translation unit, we often omit the Given information while only translating the New information into Chinese. Translators can use these strategies to find the semantic integration point between English and Chinese, and achieve more accurate and appropriate translation effect. In addition, the thesis argues that textual function is a semantic concept; it is embodied by thematic structure, cohesion system and information structure, which belong to semantic concept as well. And these three semantic systems are further embodied by phonetic system or word system, but the form and meaning may not be entirely equivalent on phonetic system or word system. It is hoped that this research can be of much help for translators or business people to better understand the construction process of business English, and thereby enhancing the ability of business translation, and inspiring foreign business communication skills.