Abstract：Based on the investigation of  the current public signs translation of main attractions in Nanjing, this paper analyzes translation problems existed from the perspectives of language pragmatic failures and social pragmatic failures. It aims to find solutions to those translation problems so as to provide the most natural and appropriate language environment for foreign visitors. This paper also hopes to contribute to the spread of Nanjing’s distinctive resources, and the shaping of cultural image and the construction of ecological civilization, thus enhancing the international reputation and influence of the Chinese culture, as well as speeding up the internationalization of Nanjing.

Key words: pragmatic failure; translation; public sign

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. Manifestation of Pragmatic Failure on Translation of Public Signs of Gardens-4

  3.1 Mistakes of Spelling and Punctuation-4

  3.2 Mistranslation of Distorted Original Meaning-4

  3.3 De-normalization of Language Form-5

  3.4 Mistakes of Chinglish -5

4.Causes of Pragmatic Failure-5

  4.1Different Cultural Values-6

    4.1.1 Differences in Religious and Cultural backgrounds -6

    4.1.2 Differences in Way of Thinking and Values -6

  4.2Different Social Norms-6

  4.3Different Translation Styles-7

5. Solutions-7

6. Conclusion-9

Bibliography-10

Acknowledgements-11