FIT Translation Theory & Methodology 3

Question 1

In Descriptive Translation Studies (DTS), the 'polysystem theory' proposed by Itamar Even-Zohar holds that:

Accepted Answer

Translated literature occupies a position within the larger literary and cultural polysystem of the target culture

Answer

Even-Zohar's polysystem theory views translated literature as part of the target culture's network of literary systems, with its position varying as central or peripheral.

Question 2

Which situation calls for 'transposition' as a translation technique?

Accepted Answer

Changing the grammatical category of a word without altering the overall meaning

Answer

Transposition involves a shift in grammatical class (e.g., a noun in the source becomes a verb in the target) while preserving the semantic content.

Question 3

When a translator adds information to the target text that is not present in the source but is culturally necessary for comprehension, this is called:

Accepted Answer

Amplification (or explicitation)

Answer

Amplification or explicitation introduces information implied in the source that must be made explicit for target-language readers unfamiliar with the source culture.

Question 4

The term 'equivalence' in translation theory is considered problematic by many scholars primarily because:

Accepted Answer

It assumes a symmetry between languages and cultures that does not exist

Answer

Critics argue that equivalence implies a false symmetry, ignoring the structural and cultural differences between languages that make perfect correspondence impossible.

Question 5

A translator working on a pharmaceutical package insert must ensure the target text produces the same understanding in patients as the source. This priority aligns with:

Accepted Answer

Dynamic (functional) equivalence

Answer

Dynamic equivalence, as Nida defined it, seeks to produce in the target reader an effect equivalent to that produced by the source text on its original readers.

(FIT) International Federation of Translators Certified Translator Practice Test

(FIT) International Federation of Translators Certified Translator Practice Test

FIT Translation Theory & Methodology 3