English major student, graduation thesis. I am choosing translation and interpretation-related research. Are there any good topics related to interpretation? It’s urgent. Thank you.

1. Listen clearly

The operation process of interpreting starts with the input of language information. Except for sight translation, which receives information through vision, in most cases, interpreters receive language information from the speaker through hearing. Therefore, the translator's hearing and understanding of the incoming information are the first hurdle in interpreting. For Chinese translators, this is especially true when translating from English to Chinese, because our command of English is far less proficient than our native language. Listening comprehension is always our weak link when translating from English to Chinese. It is not difficult to imagine that if the translator does not hear or understand the English spoken by the speaker clearly, then it will be impossible to translate into Chinese; if the translator does not fully understand or mishears, it is impossible to accurately and completely convey the speaker's original intention. It may even cause misunderstandings, leading to the failure of communication between both parties or more serious consequences. Therefore, translators must have a keen sense of hearing, a good sense of language, and the ability to distinguish different pronunciations, intonations, vocabulary and syntax.

A competent translator can not only understand the standard English spoken by people in the United Kingdom and the United States, but also understand various varieties of English spoken by people in English-speaking countries, such as Irish English, Scottish English, Canadian English, Australian English, New Zealand English, South African English, etc. They must also be able to understand English spoken by people who use English as a second or official language, such as Indian English, Singaporean English, Philippine English, English spoken in West African countries, etc. They must also be able to understand English as a foreign language. of English spoken by non-English speakers. Compared with standard English, the English spoken by people in the above countries may have inaccurate pronunciation, inappropriate word choice, and even grammatical errors. It is very important for Chinese translators to be able to understand the English of different countries and regions, especially now that our country is implementing a comprehensive opening up to the outside world. We must not only deal with English-speaking countries, but also develop exchanges and cooperation with people all over the world. English is one of the most widely spoken languages ??in the world, but there are not many countries where English is its native language. Most countries use English as a second language, official language or foreign language. The English spoken by people in different countries has its own characteristics, and is somewhat different from standard English in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. Therefore, translators must consciously train and cultivate their ability to adapt to the pronunciation, intonation, vocabulary, and syntax of various English varieties, and strive to improve their English listening comprehension skills. This is an important step in improving the quality of interpretation.

The situation is different when translating from Chinese to English. Except for strong local accents, dialects, idioms, slang or professional terms, it is generally not a problem for Chinese translators to understand Chinese. Among them, the important The link is understanding, and the key is code switching and English expression.

2. Comprehension

Comprehension is the process in which the translator analyzes, interprets and synthesizes the received language information and then makes correct judgment and understanding. The message conveyed by the speaker is composed of many factors, both verbal and non-verbal. The interpreter's understanding of the received information includes the following levels.

(1) Linguistic understanding. Language is the main carrier of information. Interpreting is a language communication activity. The transmission of information mainly relies on the translator's understanding of the original language, including the speaker's understanding of the speaker's pronunciation, intonation, grammar, vocabulary, word meaning, discourse and other linguistic factors. Therefore, translators must have solid language knowledge and rich vocabulary. They must not only be proficient in common expressions, idioms, proverbs, sayings, etc. in the two communicative languages, but also be good at capturing the "sound between the lines" and "the meaning behind the words." , understand the true meaning of the speaker's words from the speaker's tone, intonation, argot and context. It can be seen that understanding at the linguistic level fundamentally depends on the translator's proficiency in the two languages ??involved in communication. The translator should be proficient in both languages, especially the foreign language level should be close to the native level.

In addition, linguistic understanding is closely related to cultural background knowledge. Since the two languages ??used by both parties in communication each have their own social consciousness and cultural connotations, it is difficult to understand and master a language without understanding the social and cultural background of the language, and of course there is no way to translate it. Therefore, translators must have good bilingual cultural accomplishments, understand both the original language culture and the culture of their own nation. Only in this way can they find "equivalent" concepts and words from the comparison of the two cultures and conduct semantic analysis. Convert. The better the translator understands both cultures, the better he can understand the speaker's original meaning.

(2) Intellectual understanding. Interpretation covers a wide range of topics. In today's world, various international exchange activities are very frequent. In addition to regular political, diplomatic, economic and trade, cultural and sports exchanges, various professional and academic conferences and exchange activities are becoming more and more frequent. The content of the conversation between the two parties may cover many aspects. If the translator has sufficient professional knowledge in relevant aspects, he can analyze and understand the conversation content from a professional perspective. On the contrary, if the translator lacks professional knowledge about the topic of conversation, it is impossible to fully understand the content of the conversation, no matter how high the foreign language proficiency is. It can be seen that knowledge and understanding are closely related. The more knowledgeable the interpreter is, the deeper the understanding of the conversation will be and the smoother the interpretation will be.

Successful translators should be versatile and possess a wealth of basic knowledge.

Of course, this does not require the translator to know everything, understand everything, be an all-rounder, or be an expert, but the translator must master a minimum of international knowledge, have basic knowledge in politics, economics, commerce, law, humanities, science and technology, etc., and understand the original Learn the basic overview of the country's politics, economy, history, geography, and society, and be familiar with my country's national conditions, especially my country's domestic and foreign policies and its positions, views, and attitudes on major international issues. If conditions permit, the translator should prepare in advance and try to be familiar with the topics to be discussed by both parties and the scope of knowledge that may be involved.

Translators’ knowledge acquisition mainly relies on their unremitting efforts. Conscious translators are good at seizing every practical opportunity, constantly accumulating and expanding knowledge, enriching vocabulary, and improving their interpretation skills.

(3) Logical understanding. In addition to relying on the language information sent by the speaker and the understanding of the topic of conversation to understand the speaker's meaning, the interpreter can also deepen the understanding with the help of analysis and logical reasoning of the conversation content. In communication, both parties participate in the conversation with different identities and statuses. Both parties have their own ideas, methods and purposes when talking, and the content of the conversation has internal logic and connections. The translator should understand the speaker's identity, status, occupation, etc., understand the intention of his conversation as soon as possible, grasp the internal connection of his conversation, and accurately understand the true meaning of the speaker through analysis and logical reasoning of his conversation, so that he will not Interruptions in thinking and understanding due to occasional failure to fully hear what the speaker is saying. The translator can follow the speaker's train of thought and understand the original meaning through logical reasoning. Even when the speaker makes a slip of the tongue or confuses the conversation, the interpreter can correctly deduce his meaning and interpret it correctly.

3. Memory

In the process of processing the received language information, the translator needs to temporarily retain the acquired information in the memory to prevent the loss of information during conversion and expression. Or missed or mistranslated. Therefore, translators must have strong memory, which is especially important when performing alternate translations. Because when interpreting alternately, the speaker often speaks for 2 to 3 minutes or even 4 to 5 minutes before stopping. The translator cannot add or subtract at will the speaker's conversation content, nor can he fabricate it contrary to his original intention. The interpreter must express the speaker's original intention faithfully, completely and promptly.

Therefore, the translator must maximize his memory at the moment of understanding, write down the meaning of the conversation, and then choose appropriate words and sentences to express it. It can be seen that memory and understanding are closely connected, proceed almost simultaneously, and complement each other. Things that are understood are easiest to remember, and memory can affect understanding and expression. In fact, during the interpreting process, the interpreter listens, memorizes and understands at the same time.

Memory comes in two forms: mental notes and notes. During simultaneous interpretation, speaking and translation are carried out almost at the same time, leaving no time to take notes; taking notes will distract the energy and affect the listening and translation of the next sentence. Normally, translators rely entirely on memory. Alternating translation is different. The translator has to wait for the speaker to finish speaking and stop before translating. The translator needs to use notes to help remember, but do not rely too much on notes, otherwise it is easy to put the cart before the horse and affect the effect of translation. Whether it is simultaneous interpretation or consecutive interpretation, the translator is required to have outstanding memory. Therefore, translators should strengthen their memory through practical exercises. Note-taking is a specialized interpreting skill that will be discussed specifically in Chapter 3.

4. Expression

Expression is the process in which the translator uses the target language to express the speaker's original intention on the basis of fully understanding the original language. The ultimate goal of hearing, understanding, and remembering is to express. In the process of expression, the translator must code-switch, re-encode, comprehensively summarize the understood information and concepts, select appropriate words, and finally translate them timely and accurately. When expressing, the translator must achieve clear pronunciation, accurate intonation, appropriate wording, smooth and natural flow of sentences. These are the basic requirements for expression and an important indicator of the quality of interpretation. Successful expression can not only convey the speaker's message completely, accurately and fluently, but also maintain the speaker's style and characteristics. Excellent interpretation can make the conversation between the two parties "fluent" without any language barriers. This phenomenon is often seen at some international conferences: when participants listen to an impassioned speech by a representative, they will find that the interpreter in the interpretation room can't help but wave his arms while interpreting with the same passion. The translator's ability to convey emotions and perfect ideal expressions depends on the translator's language skills and speaking ability. The translator must not only have a pure native language and proficiency in foreign languages, but also must have certain speech skills. When expressing, he must be articulate, loud, beautiful, and have an appropriate rhythm. He must have certain skills in choosing words and sentences. Only such interpretation can attract and impress. audience.

Basic quality requirements for translators

In today's globalized world, international exchanges are getting closer and closer, and interpretation is receiving more and more attention. It has become an important, noble and desirable job. , it is also a profession with high entry barriers and difficult to enter. Interpreters have arduous tasks, heavy responsibilities, and hard work. Without good ideological quality and strong professional ability, it is difficult to be competent.

(1) A qualified translator must have good political and ideological qualities and lofty professional ethics, and have a high policy level and strict organizational discipline. In foreign-related work, the work and performance of translators represent the image of the country, the spirit of the nation, and the interests of the country or group. Translators must have a strong sense of responsibility and a high degree of responsibility for their work.

In foreign exchanges, we must be loyal to the motherland, correctly implement the principles and policies of the party and the state, strictly abide by state secrets, strictly abide by foreign affairs disciplines and the code for foreign-related personnel, be loyal to our duties, be clean and self-respecting, not seek personal gain, do not act on our own, and do not do anything harmful to the country. A matter of national character and personality.

(2) A qualified translator must have excellent language skills, including a solid foundation in native language and foreign language. Not only must he have solid pronunciation, intonation, lexicon, syntax, grammar, etc. in both languages Basic knowledge, proficiency in language use and cross-cultural communication skills, keen listening and rich vocabulary, clear articulation, natural intonation, appropriate wording, and accurate and fluent expression when translating. At the same time, translators must be proficient in the translation of a certain number of idioms, proverbs, abbreviations, euphemisms, jokes, professional terms, poems, famous sayings, and aphorisms, and flexibly use various interpretation methods and techniques. Only in this way can they be able to interpret in various ways. All kinds of interpreting situations are suitable for both sides. Use it freely and calmly, overcome difficulties one after another, and achieve the effect of conveying emotions and ideas.

(3) The professional quality of a translator also includes the reserve of knowledge. During the interpreting process, the interpreter will encounter conversations on various topics, the contents of which are almost all-encompassing and all-encompassing. Therefore, a competent translator must have rich encyclopedic knowledge and be able to quickly adapt to translation tasks in different majors. At the same time, he must have a relatively in-depth grasp of relevant professional knowledge, such as international affairs, economics and trade, finance, telecommunications, chemical engineering, biology, etc. , which can provide better and more stable services to certain institutions. The richer the interpreter's knowledge, the more fully he can understand the content and meaning of the conversation, and the more accurately he can express the speaker's original intention.

(4) Translators must also have a sharp mind, quick response, outstanding memory, high judgment ability, strong comprehensive analysis ability, logical thinking ability and adaptability. Invincible in interpreting in various situations.

(5) Translators must also have good personal qualities. In foreign-related activities, they must be dignified, generous, polite, modest, and elegant. They must be warm and friendly, but also neither humble nor overbearing. , in work practice, translators should pay attention to constantly improving their political, professional qualities and personal accomplishments.

What is accepted and analyzed during the interpretation process is mainly spoken language, but it is not completely equivalent to the spoken language we use in ordinary life. The spoken style in daily life is very casual and does not pay much attention to the modification of words. There are many idioms, slangs, colloquial sayings, witticisms, etc. The language level (that is, a certain social level of speech can be distinguished from elegance to vulgarity, etc., and the use occasions are also different. , similar to language style; language style can be roughly divided into frozen, formal, general, informal, casual, etc.) is lower and rarely involved Formal style and solemn style also do not have some rhetorical methods involved in formal style and solemn style and some formal "routine" structures unique to formal occasions. The subject matter is also very limited. The logic in the communication process is not strict, the structure is loose, and accompanying With a large amount of paralinguistic information and some information beyond language, even a look or an expression can be understood by both parties.

The spoken language used at the interpretation work site naturally also includes "life spoken language", but typical interpreting work is all-encompassing. It is difficult to be competent in interpreting if you can only speak a few sentences of spoken language and slang commonly used in daily life. The spoken language in interpreting is usually of a higher level, mostly in a formal or solemn style. The communication scene is often a formal or semi-formal occasion, and "clichés" are often used. The topics involved are often politics, economics, science and technology, cultural exchanges, and academics. Discussion etc. This kind of spoken language is more logical, has certain structural integrity, has a larger amount of information, pays more attention to word usage, and sometimes may be very "professional" in terms of word usage, structure, etc. It contains a large amount of information, is relatively condensed, and is difficult to remember. In some cases, it is necessary to rely on certain interpretation techniques such as taking notes. This means that "daily speaking" is not a language difficulty in interpreting. It is impossible to effectively improve the level of interpreting by simply relying on methods such as conversations with native English speakers to improve "daily speaking", or by memorizing a large number of slang words by rote. .

Interpretation learning should focus on the analysis and study of the spoken language actually needed in interpretation, that is, the "working language" of interpretation. This kind of "working language" is the basis for interpreters. It mainly includes higher-level language styles such as solemn style, formal style, ordinary style, etc., and discourse structures of specific subject categories, such as conference speeches, negotiations, technology, etc. Specific discourse structures such as seminars, product introductions, attraction descriptions, business communications, legal disputes, etc. Mastering these contents can well help interpreters grasp the characteristics of the language used in interpreting, better understand, analyze, and memorize information, and complete interpreting work at a high level. Professor Bao Gang pointed out in his book "An Overview of Interpreting Theory" that the working language of interpretation can be mainly divided into four discourse structure categories: narrative category, introductory category, argumentative category and associative category.

1. Narrative genre

Narrative genre is mainly the discourse structure used in allusions, stories, jokes, etc. in the original language. There are two aspects of this genre that require interpreting learners to pay attention to: the "temporal nature" of narrative and the "spatial clues" of narrative. The so-called "chronological nature" of narrative means that the structure of discourse is closely related to the temporal order of narrative.

The narrative discourse encountered in interpreting generally follows a time clue, which is different from the simultaneous development of several clues in written language or the "jumping" narrative in daily life where one speaks wherever he thinks. This narrative clue is mainly expressed as a linear passage of time, and at the same time, it is connected with certain descriptions of space, scenery, characters, etc., resulting in the phenomenon of "stopping" to observe during the passage of time. This is a thread of discourse development that sometimes describes and sometimes narrates. It is intertwined and unique, showing the speaker's speech characteristics. There is an "introduction" in the initial stage, using some "routine" structures that both parties in verbal communication are accustomed to accept, giving the recipient of the speech a feeling that "the story has begun", such as "I have heard of such a thing Son...", "Our country has a legend about..." etc. In the "introduction" stage, the speaker usually explains the time, place and main characters of the story, which can also lead to some suspense. The "introduction" is followed by the development of the storyline that combines description, suspense, foreshadowing and other techniques, and then there is often a climax, and finally there must be an ending, unless the original discourse is interrupted. Translators can use this structure to perform some kind of "calibration" on the original language content to facilitate the storage of discourse content. Generally speaking, there are very few discourse phenomena that violate this narrative rule.

Another characteristic of the narrative genre is that the descriptions inserted during the narrative process always follow certain spatial clues to form a specific picture. At the same time, this spatial clue must be acceptable to most people. , so the primitives describe the circuits in much the same way. The description lines that most people follow when describing verbally are basically up and then down, outside and inside, left and right first, front to back, etc. Once the translator masters these characteristics, he or she can make some predictions about the main line of description, and then possibly use some kind of distinct three-dimensional coordinate diagram to outline a clear picture of the image information of the original language without resorting to language memory.

2. Introductory genres

Introduction genres are often used to introduce scientific and technological achievements or products and commodities, to introduce people, to introduce tourist attractions, to introduce enterprises and groups Introduction etc. The clues of this genre mainly develop according to the rules of human cognition of general things: there is some kind of "introduction" paragraph before the formal introduction, and sometimes the introducer uses some rhetorical means in this paragraph to attract the addressee. Note: The introduction is generally from the outside to the inside, from the shallower to the deeper, which is basically in line with most people's thinking lines. The "main line" of the introduction can sometimes follow a certain space or time clue; the introduction is often layered and shows a certain logic. Sequence; there is usually a summary at the end of the text.

3. Argumentation category

This category is very common in interpretation and is one of the typical discourse structures of interpreting work speech. This discourse structure is very logical, with "argument + argument" as the basic hierarchical structure, and logically related words appear very frequently. Generally speaking, this type of genre has clear structure, clear transitions and rigorous logic. However, the speaker may also "go off topic", especially when the speaker is not fully prepared to speak. In this case, the translator must pay special attention to when the speaker goes off topic, where in the discourse structure, and be a good speaker. Mental preparation to return to the topic of discourse. The hierarchical structure of argumentative categories is shown in Figure 2.3.

Argumentation genres are generally quite difficult. They are closer to written language. The genres are mostly formal and often have their own unique and more formal “routine” structures. In most cases, they are composed of more formal expressions. It consists of long compound sentences with a large amount of information and relatively concise sentences, which brings considerable difficulties to the interpretation work. Most of this genre directly adopts the form of "reading the manuscript and speaking", which is very professional. If the interpreter cannot obtain the manuscript in advance, he will fall into a passive situation when interpreting, so interpreting learners must be aware of it.

Interpretation performed after obtaining a manuscript in advance is usually called "sight translation", which is also one of the technical trainings for interpreting