Part of
Describing Cognitive Processes in Translation: Acts and eventsEdited by Maureen Ehrensberger-Dow, Birgitta Englund Dimitrova, Séverine Hubscher-Davidson and Ulf Norberg
[Benjamins Current Topics 77] 2015
► pp. 85–103
Edited by Maureen Ehrensberger-Dow, Birgitta Englund Dimitrova, Séverine Hubscher-Davidson and Ulf Norberg
[Benjamins Current Topics 77] 2015
► pp. 85–103
The effect of interpreting experience on distance dynamics
Testing the literal translation hypothesis
The aim of this process-oriented study is to test the literal translation hypothesis, i.e., the frequently held view that, in their search for the most suitable translation solution, translators move from more literal towards freer renderings. The study uses keystroke-logging to investigate translation processes involving self-revision in terms of ‘distance dynamics.’ The latter term refers to the fact that each new solution to a particular translation problem can be closer or more distant from the source item than the previous one. A more specific hypothesis is also tested, namely that experience in interpreting has an effect on distance dynamics. To this end, processes of two groups of subjects — translators without substantial interpreting experience, and interpreters — are compared. The findings challenge the literal translation hypothesis, and highlight some methodological issues that should be tackled in future studies.
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