1 of 6

Group 2:��Sense-for-sense translation

Names: Nuno Furtado, Beatriz Lapa, Filipa Rodrigues, Gonçalo Pereira, Mafalda Vale, Eva Sousa, Rafaela Silva, Carolina Beringuilho, Frederica Pereira, Marc Bodet, Miguel Ribeiro, Nathany Rodrigues;

Presenter(s): Leonardo Fernandes; Nuno Furtado,

2 of 6

Definition of sense-for-sense translation

Sense for sense focuses more on the meaning and sense of each translated sentence or phrase instead of focusing just on individual words - St. Jerome

3 of 6

When should we use sense-for-sense translation?

The more one needs to transmit the nature of a given culture, the more should one make use of sense for sense translation;

In most texts but mostly in literature (to maintain rhythm and structure, to convey the message of the author);

It is also important to state that word for word translation (or imitation) is be used by an author (or text producer) whom not much cares about transmitting feelings (when we speak of character description). It is instead vapid and more synthetic.

4 of 6

When should we avoid sense-for-sense translation?

We should avoid sense-for-sense translation when metaphrase or imitation are more adequate. For example, in poetry, more creativity is required, meaning that imitation might be more appropriate.

5 of 6

What are the advantages of sense-for-sense translation?

It’s faithful to the original. It makes the necessary changes for it to still be grammatically coherent, as opposed to metaphrase, which might sacrifice grammatical structure. It also maintains meaning, not straying too far from the original, which is a risk in imitation.

6 of 6

What are the disadvantages of sense-for-sense translation?

It tends to shorten the source, not being able to replace some of the words or ideas;
It can also distort the meaning of the original text, which shows that translator could either have misunderstood the original idea or have chosen the inappropriate synonyms.