Abstract

Idiom is a special language phenomenon, is the essence of a national language, reflecting the cultural identity of the nation. Idioms closely linked to a nation's geographical environment, historical background, economic life, customs, religious beliefs, values and so on. So the translation of idioms is both a translation of language and a translation of culture. Therefore, on the study of English translation strategies, while research on the characteristics and origins of idioms will also help us to deepen the knowledge and understanding of Western culture, and as a basis for the proposed strategy of English translation.

Key words : English idioms; translation strategies; cultural differences

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Ⅰ. Introduction-i

1.1 The definition of English Idioms-i

Ⅱ. Literature Review-i

Ⅲ. The Source and Characteristics of English Idioms-v

3.1 The source of English idioms-v

3.1.1 From the Bible story-v

3.1.2 From the literary works-vi

3.1.3 From the custom-vi

3.1.4 From the ancient tales, myths or fables-vii

3.2 Characteristics of English Idioms-viii

3.2.1The fixation of English idioms-viii

3.2.2 The integrity of English idioms-ix

3.2.3The philosophical nature of English idioms-x

3.2.4The Nomenclature of English-x

Ⅳ. The Strategies of English Translation-xi

4.1 Factors affecting the translation of English Idioms-xi

4.1.1A fixed understanding of the meaning of words-xi

4.1.2 Geography and historical factors-xii

4.2 Translation strategies of English idioms-xiii

4.2.1 Literal Translation-xiii

4.2.2 Literal Translation with Notes-xiv

4.2.3 Free translation-xv

4.2.4 Combination of Literal and Free Translation-xvii

4.2.5 Borrowing translation-xviii

4.2.6 Negation-xviii

4.3 Attention to English translation-xix

4.3.1 To choose appropriate translation methods-xix

4.3.2 Pay attention to maintaining the original national cultural characteristics-xx

4.3.3"change" is the essence of translation.-xx

Ⅴ. Conclusion-xxi

References-xxii