The Translation of Non-equivlantes

expression in English into Arabic.

Introduction :
Translation is a delicate art that becomes even more
intricate when dealing with non-equivalent
expressions. These are phrases or idioms that hold
speci c meanings in one language but lack a direct
equivalent in another. This report examines the
challenges and strategies involved in translating non-
equivalent expressions from English to Arabic.

SaFa muhammed lafta / 2nd evening classes ( C ) - 4 March 2024

Background:
Arabic and English belong to different language
families, which means they have distinct vocabularies,
structures, and cultural nuances. This linguistic gap
poses a signi cant challenge for translators when
dealing with non-equivalent expressions, as they must
nd a way to convey the original meaning while
maintaining cultural relevance and linguistic accuracy.

THE TRANSLATION OF NON-EQUIVLANTES EXPRESSION IN ENGLISH INTO ARABIC. 1

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 Overview :
This report will analyze the translation of non-
equivalent expressions from English to Arabic through
ve examples. Each example will be scrutinized for its
context, meaning, and potential translation
approaches. Additionally, the report will discuss the
importance of cultural sensitivity and the role of the
translator in ensuring an effective and accurate
translation.

Data analysis :
1. *Example 1:* "Break a leg!" - This English
expression is a theatrical idiom used to wish someone
good luck. In Arabic, a similar sentiment might be
expressed as "ً ‫( "حظا ً سعيدا‬Good luck), although it lacks
the same theatrical air.

2. *Example 2:* "It's raining cats and dogs." - This

English idiom, meaning heavy rain, does not have a
direct equivalent in Arabic. A suitable translation might
be "‫( "تمطر بغزارة‬It's raining heavily).

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 3. *Example 3:* "To kick the bucket" - This English
idiom, meaning to die, requires a culturally appropriate
translation. In Arabic, an equivalent might be "‫فارق‬
‫( "الحياة‬Passed away).

4. *Example 4:* "You're pulling my leg!" - This

English expression, indicating that someone is joking,
does not translate directly into Arabic. A suitable
alternative might be "‫( "أنت تمزح معي‬You're joking with
me).

5. *Example 5:* "To kill two birds with one stone" -

This English idiom, meaning to achieve two goals with
a single action, lacks a direct equivalent in Arabic. A
possible translation might be "‫قتل اثنني من الطيور بحجر‬
‫( "واحد‬Killing two birds with one stone).

Conclusion :
Translating non-equivalent expressions requires a
deep understanding of both languages and cultures. It
is crucial for translators to not only convey the literal
meaning but also capture the cultural nuances and
connotations of the expressions. By doing so,

THE TRANSLATION OF NON-EQUIVLANTES EXPRESSION IN ENGLISH INTO ARABIC. 3

translators can ensure effective communication across
languages and cultures.

Sources :
1. Baker, Mona. "In Other Words: A Coursebook
on Translation."
2. Newmark, Peter. "A Textbook of Translation."
3. Hatim, Basil, and Ian Mason. "Discourse and
the Translator."
4. Bassnett, Susan, and André Lefevere.
"Translation, History and Culture."
5. Munday, Jeremy. "Introducing Translation
Studies: Theories and Applications."

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