View this article in RussianThe aim of this article Is to define translation errors, classify their types, and analyze their causes and effects based on established theories. By focusing on Garbovsky’s classification, the study offers insights into how translators can address and minimize errors.
Defining Translation Errors
A translation error is a significant inaccuracy or deviation from standard language norms, affecting the transmission of the original text’s meaning. To understand what constitutes a translation error, it is essential to identify what constitutes correct translation.
Translation is broadly defined as the transfer of text content from one language to another. A core requirement of this process is to convey the original’s meaning accurately. Violations of this requirement—semantic distortions, stylistic deviations, or logical misinterpretations—are perceived as errors.
Classification of Translation Errors
Translation errors can be categorized based on language levels and the underlying reasons for their occurrence. This article adopts N. K. Garbovsky’s classification, which identifies four primary causes of translation errors:
1. Insufficient Knowledge of the Source Language
Limited understanding of the source language can lead to inaccuracies in interpreting its meaning. For example, the word “comprehensive” in a scientific context might be mistranslated as “всеобъемлющий” instead of “комплексный.”
2. Insufficient Mastery of the Target Language
Inadequate proficiency in the target language can result in awkward constructions or poor word choices, impacting the clarity and coherence of the translation.
3. Lack of Cognitive Expertise
Misunderstanding technical or specialized terms due to limited knowledge in the subject area can lead to inaccuracies. For instance, mistranslating technical jargon in scientific texts is a common issue.
4. Failure to Understand Authorial Style
Ignoring or misinterpreting the original author’s unique style can lead to stylistic inaccuracies, distorting the tone and intent of the original text.
Types of Translation Errors
Interlingual and Intralingual Interference
Translation errors often arise from interference, which can be:
- Interlingual Interference: Influence of the translator’s native language on the target language.
- Intralingual Interference: Structural peculiarities of the target language causing inaccuracies.
Logical, Lexical, and Stylistic Errors
Errors can also be linked to specific linguistic levels:
- Logical Errors: Errors in conveying logical relationships or ideas, often due to misunderstandings in syntactic organization.
- Lexical Errors: Incorrect use of words or expressions, including mistranslations of idiomatic phrases.
- Stylistic Errors: Failures in preserving the author’s tone, style, or genre, such as rendering formal text in an overly casual manner.
Distribution of Translation Error Types
Semantic Distortions
Semantic distortions occur when the translator fails to grasp the meaning of words, phrases, or concepts. For instance, in Bulgakov’s *The Master and Margarita*, the description of a hat resembling a “pie” was mistranslated in English, omitting the metaphor entirely.
Causes of Translation Errors
Translation errors stem from various factors, including:
- Insufficient education or training of the translator
- Lack of cognitive experience or subject matter expertise
- Misinterpretation of figurative language, idioms, or cultural references
Semantic and syntactic errors are particularly common. Misinterpretation of logical relationships or cultural symbols in the source text often leads to inaccuracies. For example, translating “bank” as “банк” instead of “берег” highlights a failure to consider context.
Avoiding Translation Errors
Minimizing translation errors requires:
- Mastery of both source and target languages.
- Subject-matter expertise and familiarity with cultural nuances.
- Attention to authorial style and intent.
- Rigorous editing and comparison of the translation with the original text.
Conclusion
Translation errors are inevitable but manageable. Understanding their types and causes is critical to minimizing their impact. Translators must approach their work with skill, sensitivity, and dedication to preserving the integrity of the original text. By weaving logical, clear, and stylistically appropriate threads into the fabric of the translation, they can ensure its success.
References
- Buzaji D. M., Gusev V. V., Lancikov V. K., Psurtsev D. V. A new look at the classification of translation errors.-M., 2009.
- Garbovsky N. K. Theory of translation. — M., 2004
- M. A. Kunilovskaya The concept and types of translation errors. Collection of materials of the seminar «Translation error in the theory and practice of translation».-Tyumen, 2008
- The magazine of translators «Bridges».2008. Vol. 17, No. 1.pp. 20-30.