Abstract

English idiom plays an important role in culture exchange. However, for the British and the Chinese, different cultures give a rise to many difficulties in idioms understanding. Therefore, in order to boost intercultural communication, the accurate translation of English idioms is of great significance. A great deal of research on the strategies for translating idioms has come into existence. But few research papers focus on idiom translation from the perspective of foreignization and domestication. This thesis is intended to explore English idiom translation by means of employing foreignization and domestication and analyze how to flexibly apply these two strategies in the process of idiom translation.

Keywords: idiom; translation; foreignization; domestication; English

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction-1

2.Literature Review-2

3.Definition of Idioms-2

4.Foreignization-4

4.1 Brief introduction to foreignization-4

4.2 Advantages of foreignization-5

4.3 Disadvantages of foreignization-5

5. Domestication-6

5.1 Brief introduction to domestication-6

5.2 Advantages of domestication-7

5.3 Disadvantages of domestication-8

6. Dynamic Integration for Idiom Translation-8

6.1 Foreignization as a strategy for idiom translation-8

6.1.1 Complete literal translation-8

6.1.2 Literal translation with explanatory notes-10

6.2 Domestication as a strategy for idiom translation-10

6.2.1 Free translation-11

6.2.2 Adapted translation-12

7.Conclusion-13

8.Works Cited-15