本科英语专业毕业论文(17)
China is located in the northern hemisphere. When summer comes, swallows migrate back from north in volume. This natural phenomenon conforms to the psychology of our Chinese people. Thus, this example can be directly translated as “一燕不成夏”. In this way, the image of the original language is preserved. Meanwhile, the Chinese language is enriched by introducing this exotic proverb.
To cut something into two with one stroke.
一刀两断
A stitch in time saves nine.
一针及时省九针。
Generally speaking, these two examples are in fine with our Chinese modes of thinking and can both be rendered literally.
一国两制
One country, two systems
“一国两制”is adopted by China to refer to the phenomenon that in mainland socialism is adopted while in Hong Kong capitalism adopted. This idiom is put forward by Chinese former leader Deng Xiaoping and its English version “one country, two systems” is widely accepted by the English-speaking world.
4.4.2 Literal Translation plus Paraphrase
Some numerical idioms are: closely related to specific historical events and customs. If translated literally, this type of idioms will be difficult for target language readers to comprehend. Under this situation, literal translation plus paraphrase is inevitably the best choice. Some idioms can not be fully explained without a paraphrase to expound the derivation or historical background of their allusions; some idioms are closely related to the culture-specific traditions and customs, which have to be illustrated in detail for their exact meaning. For example, “a nine days’ wonder” roots in a Roman custom. In ancient times, whenever there appeared some abnormal phenomena in nature, the Romans would see it as omen. In order to get rid of it, the Catholics would hold a religious ritual which would last nine days. But when it was over, no one would ever mention it. So this idiom means “a person or event that attracts much attention in a short period of time but is soon forgotten”. If it is literally translated as “九天的奇迹”, those who do not know this custom will be at a loss and become wildered. Still, if it is rendered as “轰动一时的事物” or “昙花一现”, the vividness is lost. Therefore, literal translation plus paraphrase is preferred here and it can be translated as “九天的奇迹昙花一现”, e.g.
