Adaptation translation is a specific type of translation method used to ensure a target text resonates effectively with its intended audience and aligns with the original source text's core message or 'spirit'.
Understanding Adaptation in Translation
Based on the provided reference, adaptation is defined as a type of translation which involves a number of changes to be made so that the target text produced be in harmony with the spirit of the source text.
Unlike more literal forms of translation, adaptation acknowledges that sometimes a direct word-for-word or even phrase-for-phrase translation might not convey the same meaning, cultural context, or impact. Therefore, changes are intentionally made to the source text during the translation process.
Types of Changes in Adaptation Translation
The reference specifies several types of changes that can occur during adaptation translation:
- Deletion: Removing certain elements from the source text that may be irrelevant, confusing, or culturally inappropriate for the target audience.
- Addition: Adding information or elements that are necessary for the target audience to fully understand the text or its context.
- Explanation: Providing clarification within the text itself to explain concepts or references that might be unfamiliar to the target readers.
- Illustration: Using examples or descriptive language to make abstract ideas or cultural specifics more concrete and understandable.
- Exemplification: Similar to illustration, using specific instances or examples relevant to the target culture to replace or explain source-culture specific examples.
These changes are made with the primary goal of maintaining the 'spirit' or essential message and intent of the source text while making it accessible and natural-sounding in the target language and culture. It is a process that prioritizes functionality and cultural appropriateness over strict linguistic equivalence.
