On Chinese-english Translation Of Public Signs Under Functionalist Approach

Public signs play indispensable roles in giving information in public places. They may serve functions as suggestions, indications, prohibitions, forces, or propaganda. Public signs have become one of the most frequently used languages in people’s daily life to guide individuals’ behaviors. By studying Functionalist Approach, this paper presents some improper translation of public signs in some major parks of Chengdu via taking pictures.Chengdu, the land of abundance, enjoys a worldwide reputation for its natural and cultural heritage. An increasing number of visitors choose Chengdu as their tourist destination each year. In some public places, especially in many tourist attractions, bilingual public signs are widely used. Therefore, the Chinese-English translation of public signs is becoming more and more important.This paper firstly explains the definition and practical functions of public signs, and then studies several common problems in Chinese-English translation of public signs in major parks of Chengdu based on Functionalist Approach. The paper attempts to find out which aspects or reasons lead to the mistranslations in public places. By doing this research, this paper displays causes and effects; it provides problems and solutions.Through the study of translation principles in China based on language features and pragmatic functions of public signs, in combination of Functionalist Approach to Translation, this paper concludes some principles and methods in translating public signs. The ultimate goal of this research is to explore an available way in translating public signs; and to give suggestions and advice in order to standardize the Chinese-English translation of public signs in public places.