INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
Success is a personal journey, shaped by individual circumstances rather than predetermined outcomes Many people mistakenly define themselves by their current situations, believing these define their ultimate potential However, true success is not dictated by external factors but is a reflection of one's determination and choices.
We hold the power to shape our own destinies, as the starting points merely guide our journey While some may find it easier to advance, each of us is capable of transforming our lives by actively creating our identities rather than succumbing to the role of a victim of circumstances.
Success is a multifaceted concept, with varying definitions that include possessing valuable assets, achieving a high social status, or enjoying a happy family life with sufficient living conditions Ultimately, regardless of how one defines success, it can be viewed as an essential life goal.
Success requires navigating various paths and overcoming numerous challenges, with some individuals facing repeated setbacks while others may choose to abandon their journey Many mistakenly believe in shortcuts to success, prompting me to translate "A Shortcut to Success," a book filled with valuable life lessons This experience has revealed numerous small yet significant insights, and now it's your opportunity to learn how this approach can launch your promising career and enhance your life.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES
This study focuses on practical translation skills, aiming to equip translators with the ability to effectively translate texts between English and Vietnamese It highlights various methods and techniques that enhance translation quality and showcases the skill variations present in translated works Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of conveying the original message clearly to ensure that non-native speakers grasp the intended ideas without confusion Ultimately, the goal is to engage a wide audience of readers interested in the subject matter.
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
In a friendly and approachable style, the author offers sincere advice on transforming your life through a shift in thinking After years of research, he shares effective methods for achieving success and a fulfilling life The book's clear and relatable language makes it easy for readers to grasp and apply the solutions presented While it may be hard to believe in the book's transformative power, it promises to impart valuable lessons that empower you to create the life you desire.
The text includes the first 2 chapters of the book “A Shortcut to Success” and its introduction It has about 3,963 words in length.
The text has 10 parts which are the steps in a formula for creating an amazing life.
However, I just chose the introduction and first two chapters to do my graduation paper because of my limited time.
CHAPTER 1: My understanding of how things work
CHAPTER 2: The Mind—Conscious and Subconscious
The book “A Shortcut to Success” by Bob Huttinga PA-C was gotten from the link: https://www.free-ebooks.net/self-improvement/A-Shortcut-to-Success.
METHOD OF THE STUDY
This theses is presented through the following main chapters:
DEVELOPMENT
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Translation theory explores the connections between languages, positioning itself as a subset of comparative linguistics It encompasses the practice of translation across any pair of related or unrelated languages or dialects, regardless of their spatial, temporal, or social contexts.
Translation theory focuses on identifying effective translation methods applicable to diverse texts and categories It establishes a framework of principles and guidelines that aid in translation and interpretation, offering solutions to related challenges Furthermore, it can illustrate the rationale behind choosing one translation over another in specific contexts Importantly, translation emphasizes the decision-making process rather than the technical aspects of the source or target languages.
There are many definitions about translation:
“Translation is the expression in another language (target language) of what has been expressed in one language (source language),preserving semantic and stylistic equivalencies” (Roger T Bell) [2]
“Translation is the replacement of a representation of a text in one language by a representation of an equivalent text in a second language”. (Roger T Bell) [2]
“Translation is rendering the meaning of a text into another language in the way that the author intended the text” ( Peter Newmark)
“Translation is the replacement of textual material in one language (source language) by equivalent textual material in another language (target language)” ( J.C Catford) [1]
“Translation is a process of conveying messages across linguistic and cultural barriers” (Dr Ian Tudor) [1]
Translation is the comprehension of the meaning of a text and the subsequent production of an equivalent text, likewise called a
Translation is the process of conveying the same message from one language to another The original material is referred to as the source text, while the language into which it is translated is known as the target language The final output of this process is often referred to as the target text.
Translation fundamentally involves altering the form of written or spoken content, encompassing various elements such as words, phrases, clauses, sentences, and paragraphs.
In translation, the structure of the source language is transformed into the equivalent structure of the target language, ensuring that the original meaning is preserved in the translated text.
The primary goal of translation is to convey the meaning from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) This process involves transforming the structure of the first language into that of the second language while maintaining the semantic integrity.
PRINCIPLE AND METHODS OF TRANSLATION
While this article is not a theoretical guide, it offers valuable tips for students to assess their own translation work The following general principles are applicable to all aspects of translation evaluation.
The translation should reflect accurately the meaning of original text. Nothing should be arbitrarily added or moved, though occasionally part of the meaning can be “transpose”
Eg: He was limps with fatigue
Anh ta mệt đến độ không đứng lên nỗi
The translation should closely mirror the original in terms of word order and ideas Emphasis in English can be achieved through techniques such as inverting word order and employing specific structures like "No sooner than ", "It is/was that (who) ", and "Only by " When uncertain, highlight the key words in the original text to identify where the main stress lies.
Eg: It is the ideal condition of the “equal start” which only our most progressive forms of modern education try to regain.
Điều kiện lý tưởng cho sự khởi đầu bình đẳng chỉ có thể đạt được thông qua hình thức giáo dục hiện đại và tiên tiến nhất của chúng ta.
Languages often differ greatly in their levels of formality in a given context (say, in a business letter) To resolve these differences, the translator must distinguish between formal and fixed expressions
Eg: Please find enclose/ Please do not fold/ We would like to express our gratitude to )
A translator should maintain the original style of the text; however, if the writing is poorly constructed or excessively repetitive, it is acceptable for the translator to make necessary corrections for the benefit of the reader.
Eg: He ate, and drank, and talked, and asked during the meal
Ông ta vừa ăn uống vừa luôn miệng nói suốt cả bữa ăn
Idiomatic expressions are notoriously untranslatable These include similes, metaphor, proverbs, sayings, jargons, slangs, colloquialisms and phrasal verbs If the expressions cannot be directly translated, try any of the following
- Retain the original word, in inverted commas
- Retain the original expression with a literal explanation in brackets
A superior comes to visit his inferior
Sông có khúc, người có lúc
Every dog has its/his day
- Use a non-idiomatic or plain prose translation
Honesty is the best policy
Trung thực là đức tính cao quý (Plain Prose)
A common critique of translation is that it often lacks a natural flow, primarily due to the translator's heavy reliance on the original text To overcome this issue, translators can benefit from setting aside the source material and translating sentences from memory This approach encourages the use of more natural thought patterns in the target language, leading to a more authentic and fluid translation.
In the document "Theories of Translation," edited by Mr Nguyen Manh Quang from Duy Tan University, several key methods and principles for effective translation are outlined These guidelines serve as a foundation for translators to ensure accuracy and coherence in their work.
Interlinear translation features the target language (TL) positioned directly beneath the source language (SL) words, maintaining the original word order This method translates words individually using their most common meanings, often without context, and cultural terms are rendered literally Word-for-word translation primarily serves to grasp the structure of the SL or to prepare for translating a complex text.
Eg: Mẹ tròn con vuông
SL grammatical constructions are converted to their nearest TL equivalents, but the lexical words are again translated singly out of context.
As a pre-translation process, this indicates the problem to be solved
Eg: I used to be crazy about her
Tôi đã từng điên khùng về cô ấy.
A faithful translation aims to accurately convey the original context while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language It effectively transfers cultural terms and maintains the level of grammatical and lexical uniqueness found in the source text The goal is to remain true to the intentions and textual expression of the original author.
Eg: Love me, love my dog
Yêu tôi, (thì phải) yêu con chó của tôi
This translation method emphasizes the aesthetic value of the source language (SL) text, prioritizing a beautiful and natural sound over strict adherence to meaning It avoids jarring elements like assonance, word-play, or repetition in the final version Less important cultural terms may be translated using culturally neutral or functional equivalents rather than direct cultural counterparts, allowing for minor adjustments to suit the readership The key difference between "faithful" and "semantic" translation lies in their approach; faithful translation is rigid and uncompromising, while semantic translation is more flexible, permitting creative exceptions to complete fidelity and fostering the translator's intuitive empathy with the original text.
Eg: Then the time returns as it once appeared.
Rồi con tạo xoay vần
A serene feeling pervaded my soul.
Một cảm giác thanh tịnh lẻn vào hồn tôi
The "freest" form of translation is primarily utilized for plays, particularly comedies, and poetry In this approach, the original themes, characters, and plots are maintained while adapting the source language culture to the target language culture, resulting in a rewritten text that resonates with the new audience.
Tiếng chim hót trong bụi mận gai
This technique replicates the substance of the original text while omitting its stylistic elements, resulting in a paraphrase that is typically longer and referred to as "intra-lingual translation." Often, this approach can come across as verbose, overly elaborate, and may appear as if it has not been translated at all.
Chúc thượng lộ bình an!
Shall we go for a blow?
Chúng ta đi dạo mát nhé?
Idiomatic translation reproduces the “message” of the source text but tend to distort nuances of meaning by preferring colloquialisms and idioms where these do not exist in the original
Eg: As rich as Rockefeller
Tôi e rằng đây là tin buồn
This translation method aims to convey the original context accurately while ensuring that the content and language are easily understood by the audience It is commonly used in news broadcasts and newspapers, where communicative and semantic translations can sometimes align.
Eg: He was denied the door
Anh ấy đến nhưng không được tiếp
SUGGESTED TRANSLATION
(P1) The universe is full of magical things waiting for our wits to grow sharper — Unknown
(P1) Vũ trụ chứa đầy những điều kỳ diệu đang chờ đợi trí khôn của chúng ta khám phá — Unknown
(P2) Success is the progressive realization of a worthwhile goal This is the definition given to us by
Napoleon Hill emphasizes that success can be uneven across different areas of life; individuals may excel in business yet struggle with personal relationships, or enjoy a fulfilling marriage while facing financial challenges Some people may never experience travel or the beauty of the world, while others actively explore diverse cultures and environments.
Thành công được định nghĩa bởi Napoleon Hill là việc thực hiện không ngừng một mục tiêu xứng đáng Nhiều người chỉ thành công trong một lĩnh vực nhất định, trong khi lại thất bại ở những lĩnh vực khác Ví dụ, có những người thành công trong kinh doanh nhưng lại gặp khó khăn trong các mối quan hệ cá nhân Ngược lại, một số người có cuộc sống hôn nhân hạnh phúc nhưng lại phải đối mặt với cảnh nghèo khổ Có những người chưa bao giờ có cơ hội đi nghỉ mát hoặc chiêm ngưỡng vẻ đẹp của thế giới, trong khi những người khác lại được khám phá và giao lưu với các nền văn hóa khác nhau.
(P3) What is your life like today? (P3) Cuộc sống hiện tại của bạn thế nào?
(P4) Are you living a full and happy life?
(P4) Bạn có đang sống một cuộc sống đầy đủ và hạnh phúc không?
(P5) Is every part of your life working, or are there some parts that could be better?
(P5) Mọi thứ trong cuộc sống của bạn đang ổn chứ hay có phần nào mà bạn thấy chưa hài lòng không?
Do you experience feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, resentment, jealousy, disappointment, or other unhealthy emotions?
(P7) What would your life be like if every part—relationships, finances, career, health, and recreation—all worked well together, and you were completely happy all the time?
(P7) Cuộc sống của bạn sẽ ra sao nếu mọi thứ — các mối quan hệ, tài chính, sự nghiệp, sức khoẻ và giải trí
— đều hài hòa và lúc nào bạn cũng cảm thấy hoàn toàn hạnh phúc?
(P8) Wow Think about that for a moment What would that look like; what would that sound like; what would that feel like?
Hãy dành một chút thời gian để suy ngẫm về cuộc sống của bạn; hãy tưởng tượng nó sẽ như thế nào, âm thanh ra sao và cảm giác mà nó mang lại cho bạn.
(P9) My name is Bob Huttinga My wife, Barb, and I founded The
Michigan I have spent my entire adult life searching for answers to a few simple but profound questions:
“What is my purpose?” “What am I doing here on this Earth?” “What can
I do to make things in my life better?”
Tôi là Bob Huttinga, cùng với vợ tôi là Barb, chúng tôi đã thành lập Trung tâm Chữa bệnh tại thành phố Lakeview, Michigan Trong suốt cuộc đời trưởng thành, tôi đã tìm kiếm câu trả lời cho những câu hỏi đơn giản nhưng sâu sắc.
Mục đích sống của mỗi người là tìm ra ý nghĩa và giá trị của cuộc sống Chúng ta thường tự hỏi: "Mục đích của tôi là gì?" và "Tôi đang làm gì ở đây trên Trái đất này?" Những câu hỏi này thúc đẩy chúng ta suy nghĩ về cách cải thiện cuộc sống của mình Để đạt được điều đó, việc xác định mục tiêu và hành động tích cực là rất quan trọng.
Many individuals, including those reading this book, share a common quest for understanding and meaning in their lives We are all seekers, striving to make sense of our experiences and find purpose.
Tôi nhận ra rằng mình không phải là người duy nhất trong hành trình tìm kiếm ý nghĩa cuộc sống Mọi độc giả của cuốn sách này đều đang nỗ lực để hiểu biết sâu sắc hơn về bản thân và thế giới xung quanh Chúng ta đều khao khát cuộc sống của mình có một mục đích rõ ràng và ý nghĩa.
(P11) I recall asking my parents many questions about the meaning of life I do not recall hearing any satisfactory answers Most of the time, their answers werebased on our
Christian faith They would say,
“God will provide, and you do not
Tôi nhớ đã từng hỏi bố mẹ về ý nghĩa của cuộc sống, nhưng không nhận được câu trả lời nào làm tôi hài lòng Hầu hết câu trả lời của họ đều dựa trên niềm tin Ki-tô Giáo, với câu nói "Đức Chúa Trời sẽ ban cho, và con không phải lo lắng về điều đó." Ngay cả khi còn nhỏ, tôi không thể chấp nhận kiểu suy nghĩ này và luôn khao khát hiểu biết sâu sắc hơn.
(P12) In my search, I have had several important milestones Born into a very religious family, I was raised with a strong background in
Christianity instilled in me strong morals and a commendable work ethic, thanks to my parents While we weren't taught goal-setting directly, we learned to pray for our desires, always adding, "Not my will, but thine be done." This approach encouraged us to patiently wait and anticipate miraculous outcomes.
Trong hành trình tìm kiếm của tôi, đã có nhiều cột mốc quan trọng Tôi được sinh ra trong một gia đình sùng đạo, nơi tôi được nuôi dạy với nền tảng vững chắc trong đức tin Ki-tô giáo.
Bố mẹ tôi đã xây dựng cho tôi một nền tảng đạo đức vững chắc và một tinh thần nghề nghiệp quý giá Chúng tôi không được dạy cách đặt mục tiêu cụ thể; thay vào đó, khi có ước muốn, chúng tôi được khuyên cầu nguyện và thêm rằng, “Xin đừng theo ý con mà hãy theo ý Cha.” Sau đó, chúng tôi chỉ cần kiên nhẫn chờ đợi và hy vọng vào những kết quả kỳ diệu.
My journey began with a shift in perspective, as I realized that prayer served as a form of goal-setting, even if I didn't recognize it at the time This insight prompted me to explore the importance of goal setting and identifying opportunities in future sections of this book A significant milestone in my life was becoming a physician assistant, a dream I held since age 12 after a minor injury sparked my interest in medicine Despite childhood doubts instilled by negative programming regarding my financial and intellectual capabilities, I persevered and, against the odds of having average college grades, was accepted into a medical program.
Physician Assistant (PA) program at
Lời cầu nguyện thực sự là một hình thức đặt ra mục tiêu mà tôi không nhận ra lúc bấy giờ, và sự thiếu hiểu biết này khiến tôi trở thành một kẻ lợi dụng Tôi sẽ dành thời gian thảo luận về việc đặt ra mục tiêu và cách nhận ra cơ hội tuyệt vời trong phần sau của cuốn sách Một cột mốc quan trọng trong cuộc đời tôi là khi tôi trở thành trợ lý bác sĩ, bắt đầu từ 12 tuổi, sau một chấn thương nhẹ, tôi đã ấp ủ ước mơ trở thành bác sĩ Tuy nhiên, những suy nghĩ tiêu cực về tài chính và trí thông minh đã khiến tôi lo lắng về khả năng vào trường y, mặc dù điểm số của tôi chỉ đạt mức trung bình.
Kalamazoo, Michigan Although I doubted that I could become a doctor, the new profession of PA seemed believable Due to a great willingness to learn, I graduated with honors from
Năm 1976, tôi đã được nhận vào chương trình Trợ lý Bác sĩ (PA) tại Đại học Western Michigan ở Kalamazoo, Michigan Mặc dù tôi không tự tin vào khả năng trở thành bác sĩ, nhưng nghề Trợ lý Bác sĩ lại phù hợp với tôi Với tinh thần ham học hỏi, tôi đã tốt nghiệp với bằng danh dự tại trường Trợ lý Bác sĩ.
(P14) Another big turning point for me was the book Think and Grow
Rich by Napoleon Hill Someone gave that book to me when I was 28 years old It was my first awakening.