Translation Techniques 2

Question 1

What does the translation technique 'transposition' involve?

Accepted Answer

Changing the word class without changing the meaning

Answer

Transposition shifts a word from one grammatical category to another (e.g., verb to noun) while keeping the meaning.

Question 2

The technique of 'modulation' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A shift in point of view or perspective in the target text

Answer

Modulation changes the semantic viewpoint while conveying the same idea, such as 'it is not difficult' for 'it is easy'.

Question 3

Which technique uses an equivalent expression that differs structurally, often for idioms and proverbs?

Accepted Answer

Equivalence

Answer

Equivalence renders idioms and set phrases using a culturally matching expression rather than a literal one.

Question 4

A 'calque' is a translation technique that:

Accepted Answer

Translates the elements of a source expression literally to form a new target phrase

Answer

A calque borrows a phrase by translating its components literally, like 'skyscraper' into 'gratte-ciel'.

Question 5

When a translator adds words to make implicit information explicit, this is called:

Accepted Answer

Amplification (explicitation)

Answer

Amplification or explicitation introduces details that were implied in the source to aid the target reader.

Translation Practice Test