Abstract

    This thesis mainly focuses on studying the C-E translation of public signs from the functional perspective. It is composed of five chapters. The first chapter is a general introduction of public signs and the functionalist approaches. The second part carries on the analysis of translation errors in public signs at functional view. The third chapter deals with the principles for improvement of C-E public signs translation. Then, the fourth one presents the relevant strategies to improve the C-E public signs translation. The last one, of course, gives out a simple summary. This thesis intends to make contribution to improving the present C-E translation situation of public signs in China.

Key Words: public sign  C-E translation  problem  principles  strategies

摘 要

本文主要是从功能理论视角研究公示语的中译英翻译。论文由5个部分组成。第一部分是对公示语和功能翻译理论的大致介绍。第二部分着重分析公示语英译中存在的问题。第三章探讨了对于提高公示语英译的相应翻译原则。第四章则在相应原则的基础上提出改进公示语英译的翻译策略。最后一部分是对全文进行概括总结。本文旨在为改善目前国内公示语翻译现状做些许贡献。

关键字：公示语 中译英 问题 原则 策略

1 Introduction
    With China’s entry into WTO, rapid economic development and intensification of our reform and opening-up policy, China has become a member of the international community. Meanwhile, more and more foreigners stream into China in increasing number, who come to China to do business, study, and travel, etc. In this circumstance, English public signs of course will play a very important role in helping them get the information they want and find the way in the new environment. So helping the foreigners to know better about China and making them feel at home have become a top priority, which also is a great opportunity to demonstrate our technology, civilization and hospitality. Therefore, the translation of Chinese public signs into English constitutes an indispensable factor in international communication and mutual cooperation.
    This thesis intends to probe into C-E sign translation in China by means of functionalism.