Abstract:This study aims to analyze C-E mistranslations of public signs in Nanjing scenic spots under the guidance of translation rules in Skopos theory, including Skopos rule, coherence rule and fidelity rule. By closely combining theoretical framework and specific examples, the author analyzes and classifies the mistranslations in scenic spots according to the rules and the internal relationship between the rules under Skopos theory with modification suggestions. Meanwhile, apart from the analysis and classifications of mistranslations, this thesis also points out the causes of mistranslations and gives proper suggestions to improve C-E translations of public signs from perspectives of translators, managers and culture.

Key words: Nanjing scenic spots; Public signs; C-E translations; Skopos theory

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction 1

  1.1 Brief Introduction of Public Signs

  1.2 Framework of the Thesis

2. Theoretical Framework 2

  2.1 Overview of Functionalist Skopos Theory

  2.2 Rules of Skopos Theory

    2.2.1 Skopos Rule

    2.2.2 Coherence Rule

    2.2.3 Fidelity Rule

  2.3 Relationship of Rules

3. Analysis on C-E Mistranslations of Public Signs Based on Skopos Theory 4

  3.1 Violations of Coherence Rule

    3.1.1 Spelling and Grammatical Errors

    3.1.2 Word-for-word Translations

    3.1.3 Different Translations of a Same Scenic Spot

    3.1.4 Translations not Conforming to Customary Practices

  3.2 Violations of Fidelity Rule

    3.2.1 Loss of Meanings

    3.2.2 Change of Meanings

    3.2.3 Miscombination of Chinese Pinyin and English

4. Causes of Mistranslations in Public Signs 10

  4.1 Translators’ Insufficient Professional Quality

  4.2 Cognitive Problems and Management System

  4.3 Cause of Different Cultures

5. Conclusion 11

Bibliography.13

Acknowledgments....14