Textual Framework Analysis And Target-Text Processing In Translating Governmental Texts

This study is specifically concerned with the effect of the two key textual framework analysis approaches, i.e. Information Framework, or IF and Topic Framework, or TF, on target-text processing in translating governmental texts (10 Boston Region MPO documents in this research). The effectiveness of the two approaches was fully evaluated in terms of shifts of information and text cohesion, topical coherence, and governmental discourse.The paper argues that both IF and TF premise the very "being" of a text, which therefore, concords with the text-processing nature of translating. The effective use of IF and TF contributes to a way of translation "that operates on texts rather than words or sentences". Given the formula conventions of governmental texts, both IF and TF are connected with the Agent’s duties, responsibilities, business procedures, etc., which in turn often suggest effective solutions to "linguistic obstacles" in target-text processing.The translation experiment of 10 MPO documents in this study indicates that an IF approach to target-text processing (which often involves topic/focus, referents, reference framework), is able to ensure successful shifts of information and text cohesion. While TF, often found working with formula duties of the Agent, is skilled at creating logical connections in shifts of topical coherence. Based on the finding that most of the "difficult" governmental discourse features were rooted in the Agent’s formula responsibilities, the experiment presents further an IF& TF approach to shifts of governmental discourse, that is, to process discourse difficulties in accordance with the Agent’s explicit duties, responsibilities, business procedures.In conclusion, the present thesis argues that both IF and TF approaches concord with the text-processing nature of translating. The translation experiment in this study demonstrates that incorporation of effective use of IF and TF into target-text processing contributes to an effective way of translating governmental texts cohesively and coherently.