Abstract: In this thesis, the author conducts a thorough investigation of the translation of public signs in large supermarkets in Nanjing, and discusses the errors in the translation of public signs, such as: lack of fixity, disparity between vocabulary and semantics, mechanical translation of public signs, and pragmatic failure. Then, the author analyzes the reasons of these errors: inadequate knowledge and skills of translators, differences between the two languages, and insufficient guidance and supervision. The author puts forward some suggestions to improve the current situation of the translation of public signs from three aspects: management department, translators and social supervision.

Key words: supermarket; public sign; translation; suggestion

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

  2.1 Situation of Translation of Public Signs

  2.2 Situation of Translation of Public Signs in Supermarkets

  2.3 Situation of Translation of Public Signs in Supermarkets in Nanjing

3. Problems in C-E Translation of the Public Signs in Supermarkets in Nanjing-3

  3.1 Lack of Fixity

  3.2 Disparity between Vocabulary and Semantics

  3.3 Mechanical Translation of Public Signs

  3.4 Pragmatic Failure

4. Reasons for Mistakes in C-E translation of the Public Signs in Supermarkets-8

  4.1 Inadequate Knowledge and Skills of Translators

  4.2 Differences between the Two Languages

  4.3 Insufficient Guidance and Supervision

5. Suggestions on Improving C-E Translation of the Public Signs in Supermarkets-10

  5.1 Establishment of Specialized Management Department

  5.2 Supervision of the Relevant Translators

  5.3 Social Supervision

6. Conclusion-12

Bibliography-13

Acknowledgments-14