Abstract

Network catchwords reflect all aspects of people’s life. They are constituents of Chinese language culture that can act as a bridge for cultural communication. English readers can have a deeper understanding of China by reading the English translation. This thesis talks about the definition of network catchwords and then analyzes methods for the translation of network catchwords from the perspective of Skopos theory, in order to convey the information of network catchwords to English readers effectively. The author concludes three translation methods of network catchwords: 1) Literal translation 2) Free translation 3) Literal translation plus annotation. And these three methods can effectively translate the Chinese network catchwords into idiomatic English. Through the translation of network catchwords, we not only can make the English readers better know China but also achieve the purpose of promoting cross-cultural communication. 

Key words: Chinese network catchwords; Skopos theory; translation methods

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction.1

2 Literature Review.3

2.1 A General Introduction to Network Catchwords.3

2.1.1 Definition of Network Catchwords3

2.2 Research Status of Network Catchwords .3

3 Theoretical Framework5

3.1 The Origin of Skopos Theory and Its Development.5

3.2 Skopos Theory5

3.2.1 Skopos Rule.5

3.2.2 Coherence Rule6

3.2.3 Fidelity Rule.6

3.3 The Significance of Scopos Theory in Network Catchwords Translation7

4 Discussion.7

4.1. Characteristics of Network Catchwords.7

4.1.1 Economy in Language Structure8

4.1.2 Humor in Language Style8

4.1.3 Non-standard and Vulgarization in Language Use9

4.2 Classifications of Chinese Network Catchwords.9

4.2.1 Newly Created Catchwords10

4.2.2 Borrowed Catchwords from Foreign Languages11

4.2.3 Old Words with New Meanings11

4.3 Translation Methods of Network Catchwords.12

  4.3.1 Literal Translation.12

  4.3.2 Free Translation.13

  4.3.3 Literal Translation plus Annotation14

5 Conclusion.15

References