Abstract

Idiom is an important part of language. Language and idioms affect each other in various ways. To view idioms from the translational perspective, we can have the better understanding of Chinese idioms and English idioms. Furthermore, we can make full use of idioms by getting the fully understanding of them. Due to the differences between Chinese cultures and English cultures, there are some differences between Chinese idioms and English idioms. In this paper, the backgrounds of this topic are analyzed at first. Secondly, previous studies on equivalence theories and idioms are introduced. Thirdly, the sources and features of Chinese and English idioms are discussed. Meanwhile, the relationship between Chinese and English idioms is classified into three types. The fourth part is the theoretical basis of this study. Lastly, it states the reasons of non-equivalence between Chinese idioms and English idioms from both linguistic aspect and cultural aspect.

Key words: non-equivalence; English idiom; Chinese idiom; translation

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction-1

2 Literature Review-2

2.1 Previous Studies on Equivalence Theory-2

2.2 Previous Studies on Idioms-3

3 A Brief Survey of Idioms-4

3.1 Definition of Idiom-4

3.2 Sources of Idioms-4

3.2.1 Literary Works-4

3.2.2 Religion-5

3.2.3 Historical Events-6

3.2.4 Living Environment-7

3.3 The Features of Idioms-8

3.4 The Relationship between Chinese Idioms and English Idioms-8

3.4.1 Exact Corresponding Relations-9

3.4.2 Semi-corresponding Relations-9

3.4.3 None- corresponding Relations-10

4 Theoretical Basis of Research-11

4.1 The development of Nida’s Translation Theory-12

4.2 The Brief Introduction to Functional Equivalence-12

5 Non-equivalence between Chinese Idioms and English Idioms-14

5.1 Linguistic Aspect-15

5.2 Cultural Aspect-15

5.2.1 Geographical Environment-15

5.2.2 Different Historical Allusion-17

5.2.3 Different Traditions and Custom-18

5.3 Translation Strategies of Idioms-19

6 Conclusion-20

References-21