THE ROLE OF CULTURAL EQUIVALENCE IN TRANSLATING IDIOMS AND PROVERBS 5111400 -FOREIGN LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
Abstract
This thesis explores the crucial role of cultural equivalence in the translation of idioms and proverbs—expressions deeply rooted in the traditions, values, and collective consciousness of a speech community. Translating such culturally embedded units presents significant challenges, as literal translation often fails to convey their intended meaning, emotional resonance, or figurative nuance. Drawing on major translation theories, including Nida’s dynamic equivalence and Newmark’s communicative approach, the paper examines how translators can preserve the cultural essence of idiomatic and proverbial language. It also analyzes various translation strategies such as substitution with culturally equivalent expressions, paraphrasing, or explanatory adaptation. Through a comparative analysis of idioms and proverbs in English and [insert target language, e.g., Uzbek], the study highlights the necessity of cultural competence and contextual awareness in achieving effective and meaningful translation. The findings underscore that successful idiom and proverb translation requires not only linguistic accuracy but also sensitivity to the cultural framework of both the source and target languages
References
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