INTRODUCTION
Research problem and rationale
In today's fast-paced world, globalization is increasingly connecting cultures and economies, leading to the exchange of diverse ideas and images This interconnectedness is further amplified by the rise of technology and communication advancements As a result, English has emerged as a dominant global language, facilitating cross-cultural interactions and the sharing of information worldwide.
Translation plays a crucial role in international communication and is deeply intertwined with the globalization process As globalization connects diverse cultures and languages, it presents unique challenges for translators and interpreters A key focus of research is how globalization has shaped translator strategies to navigate cultural differences In Vietnamese society, which has been increasingly open to global influences, the written and translation languages have evolved significantly over recent decades This evolution reflects a trend towards integrating and preserving foreign elements, including cultural items and writing styles.
The relationship between globalization and translation remains an underexplored research area, with Bielsa (2005) noting that language and translation are often "systematically neglected" in globalization studies Despite the increasing prominence of translation studies in Vietnam, there is still a lack of connection between these two fields.
While issues of domestication and foreignization in translation have been examined, the effects of globalization on translation language remain largely overlooked This gap is significant, as globalization can impact domestic language and culture, potentially enriching and integrating them or leading to linguistic and cultural erosion (Cronin, 2003) Therefore, it is essential to investigate how globalization consciously alters translation practices This study aims to analyze modern translators' strategies and decisions in addressing cultural differences in English to Vietnamese translation, focusing on the influence of globalization on their processes.
Research aims and research questions
The main goal of this research is to investigate the translation strategies employed by numerous English to Vietnamese translators in addressing cultural differences, focusing on the levels of domestication and foreignization used in their translations The findings aim to shed light on the prevailing trends in English to Vietnamese translation, as well as the broader cultural and linguistic contexts involved.
The second objective involves detailing the reasons behind these strategies and investigating the role that globalization may play in the process
This small-scale study aims to highlight the evolution of translation trends and language in Vietnam under the influence of globalization The findings are intended to serve as an inspiration and reference for future, more extensive research on this topic.
The research attempts to answer the following questions:
1 What are translators‟ choices and approaches in handling cultural differences in English to Vietnamese translation?
2 What are the factors affecting these choices and approaches?
3 Is globalization a factor? If so, to what extent?
Scope of the study
The research examined domestication and foreignization in translation across various units, aiming to identify patterns in addressing cultural differences without limiting itself to a specific genre The focus was on written English to Vietnamese translation, the most prevalent context, which impacts a broad audience.
This study distinguishes itself from related research by employing both quantitative and qualitative methods to explore the issue at hand Utilizing descriptive statistics from a substantial sample of 171 translators with varied profiles, alongside in-depth interviews with 4 carefully selected participants, the findings aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject Given the size of the sample, the conclusions drawn are likely to accurately represent the broader context of the translation industry.
This study concentrated on translators rather than the translated works, a departure from typical analyses This approach aimed to effectively examine the decision-making processes of translators and the underlying factors influencing their choices.
Significance of the study
Translation challenges in a global context have been largely overlooked in research, particularly in relation to Vietnam This study aims to investigate the impact of globalization on English to Vietnamese translation By doing so, it seeks to shed light on broader trends in the evolution of translation and language within Vietnam.
4 findings and implications may be used as a basis or a source of reference for later research in the same subject matter
This study enhances the literature on domestication and foreignization by incorporating a quantitative approach, offering a more objective and comprehensive analysis in a field traditionally dominated by qualitative case studies Its findings transcend individual genres and translation units, broadening the understanding of translator choices regarding culturally related items Additionally, it introduces the often-overlooked perspective of globalization, encouraging aspiring translators to make informed decisions influenced by global contexts.
The study combined both the quantitative and qualitative research approaches
A quantitative research study utilized a survey featuring 13 English to Vietnamese translation scenarios to gather translators' preferences regarding domestication and foreignization The survey received 171 responses from translators of varying genders, age groups, and levels of experience Descriptive statistics were subsequently analyzed to identify general trends among the translators and to address the first research question.
In a qualitative research study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with four respondents to explore the factors influencing translators' choices The content analysis of the interview data yielded valuable insights and conclusions addressing all three research questions.
This paper consists of 6 main parts as follows:
Chapter 1 – Introduction briefly explains the study‟s rationale, research aims, scope, significance and methodology
Chapter 2 – Literature review explores the study‟s theoretical background, discussing theories related to globalization and translating cultural differences as well as previous studies
Chapter 3 – Methodology describes the research approach, procedures for data collection and analysis and participants in the study
Chapter 4 – Findings & discussion provides an analysis of the collected data and discuss findings to address each research question
Chapter 5 – Conclusions presents the study‟s major findings, its limitations and recommendations for further research in the matter
Finally, the paper also includes References for reference sources used in the paper and Appendices for samples of data collection instruments employed in the research process
LITERATURE REVIEW
Globalization and translation
Globalization is a significant and well-explored phenomenon that defines the modern world Although the term has gained prominence only in recent decades, it has emerged as a key topic in contemporary political and academic discussions, continually evolving and acquiring new meanings.
Globalization is primarily understood as the movement and exchange of goods, services, finance, people, and ideas on a global scale According to the American Heritage Dictionary, it refers to the process of making something worldwide in scope The World Health Organization expands on this definition by highlighting not only the rapid spread of these elements across borders but also the international and national regime changes that facilitate this process.
Simultaneous with the outward flows of products and ideas, different cultures, economies and people come together, exchange influences and become more similar More detailed definitions of globalization have
7 frequently depicted this by associating the term with such keywords as integration, interconnectedness and interdependence Take for example the Levin Institute definition:
Globalization is the interaction and integration of people, businesses, and governments across nations, primarily fueled by international trade, investment, and advancements in information technology This multifaceted process impacts various aspects of society, including the environment, culture, political systems, economic growth, and overall human well-being worldwide.
Globalization is characterized by interconnectedness and interdependence, driven primarily by technological advancements and the growth of international trade Technological developments have revolutionized production, transportation, and communication, significantly lowering costs and enhancing efficiency This has allowed manufacturers to optimize operations through multinational collaborations Additionally, the expansion of international trade in goods and services, supported by trade organizations and agreements, has facilitated cross-border commerce and economic liberalization, making it synonymous with globalization The establishment of international networks and improved communication technologies have further accelerated globalization's progress.
Globalization influences various domains such as economics, culture, and language, leading to a mix of perspectives on its effects While many argue that globalization fosters diversity and unites nations through economic, technological, social, cultural, and political forces, this integration also brings significant challenges Notably, the risk of hegemony threatens cultural and biological diversity, as highlighted by Marsella (2005), who identifies North America and Western Europe as dominant players in this global landscape.
Hegemonic globalization refers to the widespread imposition of certain values on other cultures This concept was supported by Scheuerman (2014), who noted that in popular literature, "globalization" often equates to "westernization."
In conclusion, globalization is a complex and enduring phenomenon with significant impacts, presenting both opportunities and challenges globally Importantly, as highlighted by Marsella (2005), the focus should be on specific patterns of globalization rather than globalization as a whole.
2.1.2 Translation in the globalization context
2.1.2.1 Impacts of globalization on translation
While globalization‟s influences have been apparent in different fields, researchers pointed out that translation has often been absent from globalization literature Bielsa (2005) described this neglect as systematic (p
Cronin (2003) highlighted that many English-speaking scholars on globalization have overlooked critical factors related to translation studies, as the predominant scholarly work is primarily in English This suggests a significant gap in attention towards globalization issues within the field of translation.
Translation and globalization are deeply interconnected, as highlighted by Bielsa (2005) through two key aspects Firstly, globalization transcends borders, facilitating the movement of products, ideas, and people across cultural and linguistic barriers, which necessitates translation for effective information exchange Translation serves as a vital medium for establishing intercultural connections, enabling the open exchange of goods, technologies, and ideas (Cronin, 2003, p 41) Secondly, knowledge and information are central to globalization, as the global economy increasingly relies on knowledge-based skills for enhanced productivity and competitiveness (Cronin, 2003, p 11) This diverse global context requires translation as a crucial tool for knowledge accumulation, promoting cosmopolitanism and countering provincialism (Roberts and Nelson, 2011, p 55).
Globalization and translation are closely intertwined, with each process enhancing the other through mutual influence As globalization accelerates globally, it is crucial to examine its implications for the translation industry The key characteristics of globalization have resulted in five distinct patterns of influence on translation practices.
1 Globalization has triggered an exponential increase in the volume of translation work and availability of translators This is due to higher
Globalization presents ten key demands, including the need for international advertising, the localization of technologies, and the effective communication of news A significant driver of this trend is the increasing prevalence of the Internet, which facilitates these global interactions.
(2003) reported that 91% of web sites are written in English, which necessitates the expansion of translation activities
2 Of the translated text corpus, the number of texts translated from English substantially exceeds that of texts translated into English Venuti (1995) provided statistics to illustrate this tendency: In 1981, 42% of translations worldwide had English as the source language, while in 1990, translations accounted for less than 3% of American and British publications (p 12)
3 Along with the increasing need for translation of specialized texts, translators are required to have specialist knowledge in several fields of study rather than just language proficiency (Biel, 2011)
4 Technology plays a growing role in translation activities Moving past the earlier period of traditional translation tools such as dictionaries, translation infrastructure has evolved to be largely based on technologies (Cronin, 2003) The Internet and computer tools have provided considerable assistance in the translating process and the transmission of translations
5 Globalization has also contributed to the emerging invisibility of translators‟ work The concept of invisibility, as intensively discussed by Venuti (1995), refers to the transparency of the translated text, achieved by leaving out foreign elements, as well as the transparency of the translator himself In other words, not only does translations favor naturalness and immediate intelligibility, but the translator‟s presence also tends to be downplayed This feature is believed to have arisen from the need for fluid and instantaneous interchange in globalization processes, where language use is “purely instrumental” (Venuti, 1995, p
The translation landscape is evolving due to globalization, highlighting three key trends: the growing mobility and importance of foreign elements in various cultures, the focus on transparency and clarity in translated materials, and the predominance of English as the global language of translation These trends indicate a more intricate process of managing foreign content, suggesting that globalization is significantly influencing translators' choices and methodologies.
2.1.2.2 Impacts of translation in the globalization context
Domestication and foreignization
The interplay between the self and the other, as well as the local and global dynamics, significantly influences the discourse on globalization and translation Central to this discussion are the domestication and foreignization strategies introduced by Venuti in 1995, which are crucial concepts in the study of translation practices.
Domestication is a translation strategy that adapts the source text to align with the norms of the target language and culture, often involving the removal or modification of foreign elements, which can lead to a loss of original information According to Venuti (1995), examples of domestication include avoiding foreign terms, altering syntax for idiomatic expression, and adjusting the author's style to fit the target audience This approach results in a natural and fluent translation that is easily understood by readers Venuti also noted that domestication is favored in Anglo culture, where fluency and transparency are key criteria for evaluating translations.
Foreignization in translation seeks to preserve elements from the source text, sometimes at the expense of target language norms This approach highlights the significance and uniqueness of foreign values, helping to immerse readers in the source culture Common foreignization techniques include borrowing terms from the original language, maintaining original word forms with explanations, and retaining the source text's word order and structure.
Domestication and foreignization in translation highlight the choice between prioritizing the source text or the target audience, akin to Cicero's word-for-word versus sense-for-sense distinction and Nida's formal versus dynamic equivalence These strategies not only address linguistic aspects but also incorporate cultural considerations, reflecting the relationship between source and target cultures Venuti's concepts emphasize ethical attitudes towards foreign cultures and offer insights into social and cultural trends in today's world, making domestication and foreignization significant tools in translation studies.
2.2.2 Debates on domestication and foreignization
Although domestication and foreignization were first formulated by Venuti in 1995, these concepts have existed and been debated among translation theorists for centuries
In the 17th and 18th centuries, translation theories favored domestication, prominently reflected in Cicero's sense-for-sense translation approach This method preserved the original ideas and style while adapting to local linguistic norms, resulting in fluent translations that resonated with the target audience The rise of fluency as a preferred translation style during this period further supported Cicero's strategy, making it a cornerstone of early translation practices.
2006, p 17) Other than the priority on fluency and readability, domestication
During this period, the selection of texts for translation often reflected a style similar to that of local literature, focusing on themes that were pertinent to the local social context (Birdwood-Hedger, 2006, p 24).
Foreignization emerged in the early 19th century, highlighted by scholars such as Schleiermacher, who, in his 1813 lecture, proposed two translation methods: either guiding readers toward the author or vice versa (Venuti, 1995) Schleiermacher favored foreignization, believing it enriched the German language and literary development Similarly, Vladimir Nabokov emphasized respect for the original text, asserting that translation could only strive to convey the author's "speech, style, and mind" (Birdwood-Hedger, 2006) Bassnett (2002) identified five translation trends from the late 19th to early 20th century that reflected a commitment to the source language, coinciding with an era of industrial capitalism and colonial expansion, which Robertson (1990) described as a struggle for hegemony in globalization.
Domestication in translation has been significantly shaped by 20th-century science teaching, which prioritized meaning over form (Cohen, 1962) This approach was further developed by Eugene Nida, who introduced the concepts of formal and dynamic equivalence in translation theory Formal equivalence focuses on accurately translating the original text's form, lexical, grammatical, and structural features into the target language (Yang, 2010) In contrast, dynamic equivalence emphasizes the relationship between the text and the reader, prioritizing meaning over the original structure.
Nida emphasized that translation must evoke the same impact and understanding in its readers as the original text does for its audience.
In 2010, it was noted that the target text conveys the source text's message in a clear and accessible manner, akin to the principles of domestication By promoting dynamic equivalence, Nida favored domesticating strategies in translation.
Many researchers argue that Nida's theory is limited to linguistic equivalence and neglects cultural considerations, a concern highlighted by Venuti's perspective Venuti (1995) views translation as the imposition of a target text that obscures the linguistic and cultural differences of the source text, emphasizing that the dominance of Anglo-American culture in translation promotes an ethnocentric approach that undermines the source culture's identity and values He advocates for foreignization as a resistance to this ethnocentrism and imperialism While Venuti's arguments primarily address contexts where English is dominant, they resonate with Schleiermacher's advocacy for cultural diversity, influencing modern translators' strategies in an increasingly globalized world, as seen in the case of Trinh Lu.
Venuti's theory has faced significant criticism, particularly regarding the oversimplification of his dichotomy between domestication and foreignization Baker (2010) argues that Venuti's classification is too generalized, overlooking the diverse range of translator choices available It is essential to recognize that translations can incorporate aspects of both strategies rather than adhering strictly to a single approach.
Boyden (as cited in Ogihara-Schuck, 2014) argued that opposing translation strategies could complement each other, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach Tymoczko also noted that any translation method, including foreignization, can foster ethnocentrism by prioritizing foreign elements over domestic ones Consequently, while recognizing the potential for hegemony, she deemed foreignization insufficient as a means of resistance.
In 2014, it was highlighted that addressing cultural issues during the translation process necessitates a flexible and varied application of strategies Recognizing the choices and approaches of translators is crucial for understanding the impact of translation on society in an increasingly globalized world.
2.2.3 Measurement of domestication and foreignization
Despite the widespread adoption of Venuti's concepts of domestication and foreignization, critics highlight the absence of clear definitions and classifications, as noted by Tymoczko (Birdwood-Hedger, 2006) This lack of specific criteria complicates the ability to assess the degree of domestication and foreignization in translations solely based on Venuti's framework This section will investigate the extent of domestication and foreignization in translation procedures and identify elements that typically exhibit these strategies.
2.2.3.1 Procedures of domestication and foreignization
METHODOLOGY
Research approach
This study adopted the triangulation technique, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches
The study utilized a quantitative approach to collect descriptive data from a larger sample size, effectively representing the English to Vietnamese translator population and enabling the identification of trends This method was selected due to the limitations of previous research on globalization and translation, which were often qualitative, case-specific, and confined to the literary genre.
The study emphasized the observation of translations rather than the translators themselves, aiming to offer a fresh perspective and more comprehensive conclusions regarding the initial research question A survey was conducted to gather participants' translation strategies, followed by statistical analysis to identify general associations between translation choices and demographic features The insights gained from this data analysis served as the foundation for a subsequent qualitative investigation into the underlying factors influencing translation decisions.
The qualitative approach, utilizing follow-up interviews, offered valuable insights into the underlying issues, allowing participants to share their decision-making factors, personal perspectives, and pertinent experiences.
The analysis of 29 interview experiences involved crosschecking and comparing qualitative data with earlier quantitative findings This process was essential for addressing research questions 2 and 3, as the quantitative approach alone could not fully capture translator choices or provide detailed insights into the underlying factors and their potential links to globalization.
By combining both approaches, the study was able to synthesize and validate information across various sources, thus ensuring higher generalizability and reliability as well as producing higher quality findings.
Data collection
The study employed a questionnaire to gather data from a significant number of translators, focusing on their use of domestication and foreignization in translation It featured 13 multiple-choice questions that presented translation scenarios from English to Vietnamese, requiring participants to choose between foreignized and domesticated translations, with a neutral option included where applicable An "Other" option allowed respondents to suggest alternative translations if the provided choices were inadequate Additionally, demographic information such as gender, age group, and translation experience was collected to enhance the research's context.
To ensure convenience for survey takers and encourage participation:
(1) The questionnaire consisted of only multiple-choice items, written in Vietnamese with points of focus highlighted in each question
(2) Explanations of the questionnaire‟s purpose (collecting opinions rather than making assessments) and anonymity were included
The questionnaire was designed and distributed online through social networks targeting translators and translation students to gather a diverse sample conveniently Google Forms was selected for its ease of use and familiarity, making it an ideal platform for the survey Additionally, printed copies were provided to ensure participation from those who preferred offline access.
This questionnaire was designed in three stages:
The literature review examined relevant theories and previous studies to identify translation units and strategies associated with domestication and foreignization A framework for the study was developed by integrating various theories, as detailed in Chapter 2 To facilitate the analysis of translation strategies, Table 2 was created, outlining procedures for three levels of domestication and foreignization Additionally, Table 5 was designed to present units that exemplify the use of these strategies, serving as question stems to investigate translator choices regarding culture-specific items.
(2) Construction: Based on the devised framework, one English to
The Vietnamese translation issue was chosen to exemplify each category in Table 5 For each problem, options for more domesticated, more foreignized, and neutral translations were presented in Table 2, along with an "Other" option to account for potential choices not fully represented by the researcher.
(3) Pilot study: The questionnaire was sent to 6 participants and the research supervisor for testing Based on the returned responses and comments,
31 the researcher then identified problems and revised the questionnaire for higher validity
The full version of the questionnaire can be found in both English and Vietnamese in Appendix 1
The survey aimed to include a diverse group of translators to capture various perspectives and competencies for comprehensive analysis The sample targeted a minimum of 100 participants, selected based on specific criteria to facilitate comparison and contrast in the findings.
(1) Experienced in English to Vietnamese translation through formal training and/or translation work
(2) Of various age groups from at least 20 years old, to ensure a certain degree of experience and knowledge as translators
(3) Including both males and females
(4) Varying in levels of translating experience
The survey utilized a simple random sampling strategy, yielding 171 responses from translators across various demographic groups, as detailed in Table 6 Additionally, five participants voluntarily shared their personal insights and comments regarding the surveyed topic.
To enhance understanding of research questions 2 and 3, semi-structured interviews were conducted after analyzing the questionnaire data This approach allowed for guided discussions that produced relevant findings while also providing flexibility to explore emerging perspectives and elements.
All interviewees were prompted to elaborate on the factors influencing their choices and their connections to globalization A sample of general interview questions is available in Appendix 2 Each interview included tailored follow-up questions based on the participant's questionnaire responses and pertinent issues New insights from prior interviewees were incorporated to facilitate a comparison of various translators' perspectives Interviews were conducted online or in person, depending on the availability of the interviewees, and were recorded for subsequent analysis.
A simple random sampling strategy was employed to select certain translators from the questionnaire for follow-up interviews, resulting in a total of four interviews due to the researcher's time and resource constraints Each interviewee was chosen from a different age group to gather diverse perspectives based on varying lengths of translating experience Although both genders were represented among the selected interviewees, gender was not a methodological focus, as the survey data on gender was insufficient and challenging to analyze in qualitative interviews.
For the remainder of the text, these interviewees will be referred to as specified in Table 7
4 th year student of Translation and Interpreting
2 – 5 years Translator and editor of academic content
Over 10 years Translator and interpreter, mainly of technical documents
Data analysis
The online survey responses were compiled into an Excel worksheet using Google Forms, and the researcher integrated additional data from printed questionnaires, resulting in a comprehensive total of 171 responses.
The questionnaire's design involved assigning code numbers to answer options: 1 for foreignized, 2 for neutral, and 3 for domesticated In some cases, a neutral option was not available, resulting in the absence of code number 2 Participants contributed 73 responses through the "Other" option, which were analyzed and coded based on their level of domestication or foreignization Following this coding process, distinct databases were established for each gender, age group, and experience level to facilitate further assessment and comparison.
The databases were analyzed using SPSS Statistics, a comprehensive software developed by IBM for statistical analysis Descriptive statistics, including the frequency and percentage of responses for each question, were generated and exported as reports The researcher utilized these reports to draw conclusions about the preferences of surveyed translators across various demographic groups.
After completing all interviews, the content was transcribed into written documents for analysis The researcher first focused on insights related to translator choices to complement survey data In the second analysis, factors influencing these choices were categorized by major themes, allowing for comparisons and deeper analysis of relationships between different elements To ensure the accuracy and relevance of the conclusions, this process referenced questionnaire results, the study's background, and theoretical foundations in existing literature.
The researcher organized the findings by themes to address the research questions, highlighting key aspects such as foreignizing tendencies in lexis translation, domesticating tendencies in grammar translation, the significance of translation purpose, and the influence of the translator’s professional strategies alongside the publisher’s or client’s requirements in shaping translation strategies Additionally, the impact of globalization on evolving translation techniques was noted A detailed theme-based analysis of the data will be presented in Chapter 4.
FINDINGS & DISCUSSION
Research question 1: What are translators‟ choices and approaches in
An analysis of survey responses and interviews reveals key trends in translation choices, highlighting that domesticating and foreignizing strategies differ based on the category of the translated item and the type of translator While the survey lacked specific contextual details essential for the translation process, insights from interviews provided a more nuanced understanding of translator strategies.
In this section, translator choices and approaches will be summarized and described based on the obtained data For details on factors affecting these choices and approaches, see section 4.2
4.1.1 Choices and approaches by translated item
Significant variations in the levels of foreignization and domestication are evident across three primary categories of translated items: proper nouns, common expressions, and grammar Detailed statistics for each category reveal these distinctions clearly.
Table 8 Translator choices by categories of translated item
Category Question Domestica ted Neutral Foreignized
In the translation of proper nouns, there is a notable preference for foreignization, with many translators opting to retain the original English terms rather than using orthographic adaptations or Sino-Vietnamese equivalents This trend is particularly pronounced in the translation of object names, where an impressive 93.6% of surveyed translators favor direct transfer of the original terms.
In most cases, translators agree that English terms should be transferred directly to the target text, especially for object names However, an exception arises when an object name has a widely accepted Vietnamese translation, as noted by interviewee C, citing the brand Cô Gái Hà Lan (Dutch Lady) Such instances are uncommon, as the majority of foreign brand names are typically transferred rather than translated For example, in the case of Tiger Beer, one participant suggested that the word "Beer" should remain untranslated.
A significant 65.5% of translators preferred to maintain the original English spelling of people's names, while 32.2% opted for orthographic adaptation Interviewees across various age groups emphasized that the choice largely depends on the context and target audience For instance, interviewee B suggested that for texts aimed at the elderly, orthographic adaptation is more suitable Similarly, interviewee D noted that domesticated Sino-Vietnamese translations may resonate better with older generations However, when addressing a more general audience, most translators favored the foreignized option Interviewee A expressed a willingness to incorporate the orthographically adapted version to assist the audience with pronunciation.
While there is a noticeable trend towards foreignization in geographical terms, it is not as pronounced as in other categories For the term "Australia," 28.1% of respondents preferred a foreignized version, ranking it third among all questions, while a significant 69.6% favored domestication Participants who chose the domesticating translation cited the familiarity and conciseness of "Úc" in Vietnam as key reasons One interviewee who selected "Australia" acknowledged the acceptability of both options but made their choice based on personal preference Overall, the insights from interviewees and survey participants indicate a preference for domestication in the absence of strong foreignization influences.
39 of convenient and frequently used Vietnamese terms such as “Úc” or “Mỹ”, they would keep the term intact for general readers
In the context of common expression questions, domesticated and neutral responses were favored, particularly in the translation of cultural objects, where 71.3% of participants opted to retain the English term accompanied by a brief explanation Interviewee B noted that this approach was preferable for written texts with ample space for clarification; however, for film subtitles, which have limited space, either a foreignized option of directly transferring the term or a domesticated equivalent would be more suitable Statistics indicated a slight preference for foreignization, at 17.5%.
The classification and measurement trends indicate a strong preference for domestication, with 84.8% of participants opting for a commonly used system in Vietnam While interviewees from the three older age groups aligned with this approach, Interviewee A chose to utilize the source language system, providing notes for the target language equivalent For example, "8 feet" was translated into Vietnamese by Interviewee A as follows.
“8 feet (≈ 2.5m)” Nevertheless, this strategy also demonstrates that a degree of domestication is considered highly essential in translating this type of item
In a study on translation strategies, 90.6% of translators preferred domestically translating opinions using Vietnamese expressions with similar meanings However, responses for describing habits were more varied, with 46.2% opting for domestication and 52.6% choosing culture-neutral translations Despite this division, interviewed translators agreed that domestication is generally the best approach, reserving culture-neutral translations for cases where domestication is not feasible Notably, two out of four interviewees indicated they selected the neutral option for describing habits due to specific challenges.
The high percentage of advocates for culture-neutral translation may be influenced by the inaccuracy of domesticated options rather than strategic choices This suggests that the preference for foreignized translation could be shaped by these considerations as highlighted by interviewee responses.
A found it acceptable as long as the foreign imagery does not pose a comprehension problem for readers
The analysis of grammar translation reveals a strong preference for domestication, as evidenced by over 80% of domesticated choices across all six grammar-related questions Key areas such as tense and aspect, word order, and number were particularly prominent in this trend Interviewees also favored translations that adhered to natural Vietnamese grammar, ensuring reader comfort Notably, while the translation of person was predominantly domesticated, it exhibited the highest foreignized percentage at 19.5%.
Recent trends in translation highlight the use of proper noun foreignization, the transference of terms accompanied by explanatory notes for cultural objects, and the domestication of grammar, measurement systems, and common expressions These observations align with insights from survey participants and corroborate findings from previous research on domestication and foreignization conducted by Duong.
As the 20 – 25 age group accounts for 70.8% of the surveyed population
Out of 171 responses, 121 were collected from this group, reflecting statistics that closely align with overall trends The gathered data effectively represents their preferences and methodologies Follow-up interviews have confirmed that the general choices among translators across all age groups are largely consistent.
4.1.2 Variations among types of translator
A comparison of survey responses reveals a notable trend towards foreignized translations among male translators, with a higher percentage of males choosing this approach in 8 out of 13 questions, particularly in grammar Despite representing only 26.3% of the total sample, men exhibited a greater tendency for foreignizing in areas such as word order, tense, and number However, the significant difference in sample sizes between genders and the influence of various factors indicate that these findings necessitate further investigation and research.
Translation trends showed no significant variation across age groups, with translators of all ages employing different degrees of domestication and foreignization Notably, the 20-25 age group consistently favored foreignizing options across all surveyed categories Similarly, among translators with varying levels of experience, those with less than two years were the only group to demonstrate foreignizing choices in every category This correlation suggests that younger and less experienced translators are more inclined to embrace foreignization in areas where older groups preferred domestication, such as measurements, opinions, habits, and grammar This tendency was further supported by interviewee A, who expressed a preference for more foreignizing choices.
Research question 2: What are the factors affecting these choices and approaches?
This research discussion draws on interviews with four translators of varying age groups, supplemented by relevant literature Instead of categorizing by translated items, the analysis focuses on the underlying factors influencing translator choices, as outlined in section 4.1 Recognizing that these factors may interconnect and overlap, we present a rough classification into three main groups to provide an overview of the considerations involved in the decision-making process between domestication and foreignization.
The purpose of translation involves key factors such as the target audience, genre, and context of use, which significantly influence the translation strategy, whether it be domestication or foreignization All interviewed translators highlighted the importance of these elements in guiding their decision-making process.
The characteristics of the target audience significantly influence translators' choices, as highlighted by all interview participants Notably, interviewees B and C identified this factor as their top priority in the translation process.
Translators adjust the degree of foreignization or domestication based on readers' knowledge levels Familiarity with English and its cultures tends to promote foreignizing tendencies For older readers unfamiliar with English and children still learning the language, translators often use orthographic adaptation for proper nouns to enhance linguistic familiarity and aid pronunciation Conversely, for educated readers ranging from teenagers to middle-aged individuals, a preference for the foreignization of proper nouns and certain cultural objects is observed.
Interviewees agreed that younger individuals are generally familiar with English and foreign cultural elements, leading them to prefer foreignized translations Additionally, the comprehension level of the translated content is crucial; as noted by interviewee C, those with expertise in a subject can effectively handle loan words and English structures in translations.
When creating technical documents for experts, it's acceptable to use loan words and retain original English terms without translation However, when translating the same content for a non-expert audience, such as farmers, it is crucial to adjust the language and avoid borrowing words or structures.
When translating technical information for farmers with limited English proficiency, it is essential to adapt the language by providing clear explanations and avoiding the use of foreign terms This ensures that the content is accessible and easily understood by the target audience.
Understanding readers' language preferences is crucial for effective translation For instance, Interviewee D noted that individuals over 60, even those who speak English, tend to prefer Sino-Vietnamese transcriptions of English names and traditional Vietnamese syntax This approach caters to their tastes Similarly, when translating nursery rhymes for children, adapting the text to reflect Vietnamese rhyme styles engages young readers more effectively Conversely, Interviewee C observed that contemporary audiences often favor foreign elements, such as preferring the term "Australia" over its older Vietnamese equivalents.
“Úc” or “Ôx-trây-li-a” This observation was also made by interviewee D
44 regarding the brand name Tiger Beer According to him, similar results were shown in a customer survey by Tiger Beer:
Vietnamese consumers expressed a preference for the English name "Tiger" over the Vietnamese transcription "Tai-gơ" or the translation "Con Cọp," as the original name evokes a premium and flavorful image for the product This trend suggests that adopting foreignization is the optimal strategy to align with audience preferences.
The context of the text significantly influences translation strategies Interviewee B, who focuses on educational translations, emphasizes the importance of helping learners become familiar with English terminology, which often leads to retaining original terms in the target text Conversely, Interviewee D suggests that when the goal is to evoke a foreign cultural atmosphere, translations may intentionally highlight cultural differences through a degree of foreignization Additionally, the retention of specific grammatical and syntactical features is crucial in research documents to maintain the integrity of the original message Tone and register also play a vital role; for instance, foreign terms are deemed more suitable in formal contexts, as seen in the translation of "Australian Awards" to "Giải thưởng Australia" to enhance formality.
Translation choices can differ significantly based on the genre of the text, including literature, technical documents, news, or film subtitles, each with unique characteristics According to interviewees A and B, technical translations demand scientific precision and the preservation of international terminology, even when exact Vietnamese equivalents are unavailable, necessitating thorough explanations In contrast, the literary genre requires a different approach to capture its essence.
In translation, particularly in film subtitle translation, the aesthetic of the target language is crucial, as noted by interviewee A, who emphasizes the need for domestication Interviewee B highlights that due to space constraints, translators must choose between retaining or adapting content instead of providing extensive explanations While text genre can indicate the intended readership, as mentioned by interviewee C, it is not always definitive; for example, technical documents may target experts rather than the general public The researcher argues that texts within the same genre can cater to diverse audiences, such as adults, teenagers, or children Therefore, relying solely on broad text genres is insufficient for developing effective translation strategies; more specific characteristics, including purpose and audience, are essential Ultimately, text genre plays a minor role in translation decisions compared to other influencing factors.
In this section, translator‟s professional strategies refer to the general principles and criteria that a translator follows as part of his professional responsibilities
Faithfulness to the source text is crucial in translation, as highlighted by various interviewees The debate between foreignization and domestication underscores the importance of cultural identity, particularly when dealing with culturally specific elements that lack direct equivalents in the target language Interviewee A emphasized the need to recreate this cultural identity, noting that even orthographic adaptations may not ensure accurate interpretation or pronunciation Similarly, Interviewee D argued that unique cultural objects should not be translated, while Interviewee C prioritized clarity in conveying the essence of these objects.
The influence of cultural background on writing is significant, particularly in the translation of syntax and paragraphing style, though this is less rigidly applied in literature When a writer's unique style is crucial for literary interpretation, preserving this individuality becomes essential.
The distinctive grammar of a source text is a key feature, as seen in Hemingway's use of lengthy, complex sentences filled with philosophical ideas and separated by semi-colons While traditional translators often simplified these sentences, many contemporary translators now choose to maintain the original style.
Research question 3: Is globalization a factor? If so, to what extent?
Although globalization has not been officially recognized as an influencing factor in the research process, its impact is clearly evident in various aspects related to domestication and foreignization Analysis of survey data and interviews has revealed three significant patterns associated with this phenomenon.
There is an increasing openness among readers towards foreign elements in translations, as they become more familiar with English and Western cultures through exposure and education Interviewee B noted that the influx of foreign ideas is making readers more receptive to social viewpoints that may be traditionally disapproved of in Vietnamese society Globalization plays a crucial role in this trend by facilitating the exchange of ideas and cultural interactions Consequently, translation recipients are not only familiar with but also show a willingness to engage with foreign elements Previous studies in Vietnam, such as those by Duong (2014) and La (2015), highlight the growing number of educated readers with English proficiency, suggesting that foreignized translations resonate more with their tastes due to their media experiences with other cultures.
Research indicates a generational divide in translation preferences, with older readers favoring domesticated translations while modern readers prefer the incorporation of English terms and names Interviewees noted that English brand names evoke a sense of class and quality, leading to a trend towards foreignizing translations to enhance the "foreign flavor."
Translators are increasingly favoring the preservation of source text elements, a trend linked to globalization and shifting reader perceptions of foreign elements Interviewee B noted that the pressure to create Vietnamese equivalents has diminished, allowing for greater acceptance of English loanwords and structures This shift may be attributed to new generations of translators who have grown accustomed to integrating English into Vietnamese, influenced by exposure to foreign media and translations, as highlighted in Hjarvard's study (2004) Interviewee D echoed this sentiment, observing that younger translators, more familiar with English, are more likely to embrace borrowed words and structures.
The translation process has evolved to prioritize new objectives related to foreign information and language acquisition This shift is evident in the emphasis on foreignization, which aims to enhance readers' familiarity with English and diverse cultures, facilitate easier access to information, and support readers in English-speaking work environments Additionally, there is a growing commitment to respecting the cultural identity of source text elements and effectively introducing this identity to the target culture, reflecting a deeper dedication to fidelity to the original text.
51 need for adapting to and keeping up with a context where English as well as foreign elements are more prevalent, or in other words, a more highly globalized society
Globalization significantly influences translation strategies by introducing changes and trends that favor foreignizing techniques and the incorporation of English lexis and grammatical features, particularly in the translation of proper nouns This trend aligns with the findings of Hjarvard (2004), Ajayi (2010), and Fallahshahrak and Salmani (2013), offering a fresh perspective on Venuti's (1995) argument that globalization promotes domestication and cultural hegemony While Venuti's views stem from translating minor languages into English, the opposite occurs when translating from English to Vietnamese, where foreignization is prevalent As English continues to dominate reading materials, its impact on the target culture and language becomes increasingly significant.