The paper titled "Nine Practical Formulas for Translating Proverbs" by Adel Salem Bahameed focuses on the challenges of translating proverbs, particularly those from the Hadhramaut region of Yemen, into English. The primary research question is how to effectively translate culturally rich proverbs while retaining their original meaning and impact.
The purpose of the study is to explore methods for translating proverbs, a task complicated by their deep cultural roots and often metaphorical language. The study aims to develop a comprehensive strategy to guide translators in this complex process. The scope of the study includes analyzing a sample of Hadhrami proverbs and proposing practical solutions for their translation into English.
Methodologically, the research is conducted at Hadhramaut University, utilizing a sample of forty fourth-year students who were selected for their proficiency in English and their familiarity with the local culture. The study employed a structured questionnaire that required participants to translate proverbs and express their views on various translation strategies. The analysis of the data was guided by Gerloff’s methodological units, focusing on how students approached the translation of proverbs.
The key findings indicate that the most commonly used translation technique among the respondents was paraphrasing, which accounted for 40.36% of the translations. Literal translation and proverb-for-proverb translation were also used but to a lesser extent. The study identified three primary translation techniques—literal translation, proverb-for-proverb translation, and paraphrasing—as being the most effective in handling Hadhrami proverbs. Additionally, the study proposed a "Comprehensive Strategy" consisting of nine formulas that can be applied depending on the specific challenges posed by each proverb.
The study concludes that the translation of proverbs requires a flexible approach that considers the cultural and linguistic nuances of both the source and target languages. The proposed Comprehensive Strategy offers a practical guideline for translators, providing them with a range of tools to ensure that the translated proverbs maintain their original meaning and cultural significance. The study emphasizes the importance of adapting translation techniques to the unique challenges presented by different proverbs, thereby contributing to the broader field of translation studies.