Lesson 3

P20113 : Qualities of Translation

This lesson talks about the various aspects of translation. Translation is a specialized skill. The language of the original text is called the source language or Tharumozhi while, the language into which a text is being translated is called the target language or Perumozhi. A good translator must possess a sound knowledge of the source language as well as the target language.

    The translator must never use ambiguous words as it is important to retain the clarity of the original text. Apart from knowledge of the 2 languages a good translator must also possess research skills. A thorough reading of the original text is very essential for translation.

    A translator must also be aware of the social and cultural contexts of the text that is being translated. Syntax, cultural connotations, proverbs and idiomatic expressions that are exclusive to a language are potential landmines that a translator usually stumbles on. An efficient translator is wary of these and ensures that the flavour of the original text is retained in the translation.

    Finally a translated text must be compared and checked with the original to make sure that the content and meaning of the original is not lost in translation.