The Problem of Translation of the American and British English Versions of The Witcher in Media and Literature
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Abstract
This study aims to highlight the translation complexities of “the Witcher” into American and British English as far as adapting cultural aspects, idiomatic expressions, and humour. The researcher intends to analyze the translating challenges to develop strategies that enhance cultural resonance and understanding of the Witcher. Because of its Slavic cultural background, adapting “The Witcher” requires attention to differences in syntax, phonetics, and idiomatic expressions that distinguish American and British English. A combination of linguistic, critical, and conceptual analyses is adopted as a research design to reach the study objectives. A comparative analysis focusing on the distinct linguistic features in both translations was conducted, and cultural approaches were applied to assess the effectiveness of various translation strategies. Specific examples were taken from The Witcher novels and games to illustrate how these linguistic and cultural distinctions impact the translation process. Findings revealed significant challenges in translating idioms, cultural expressions, and humour, which are integral to preserving the atmosphere of The Witcher. For example, adapting phrases with deep-rooted cultural meanings often necessitates significant modifications to maintain relevance for American and British audiences. Differences in sentence structure and vocabulary between American and British English also affected readers’ engagement and understanding of The Witcher. This study concludes by highlighting the need for culturally aware translation strategies where translators must balance accuracy in language with cultural adaptation. Understanding the cultural backgrounds of both the source and target languages may ensure idioms, humour, and character voices connect with different audiences. The findings of this study are particularly relevant for translators, editors, and cultural studies professionals engaged in intercultural communication, as they offer insights into the nuanced processes required for successful adaptation. This study provides valuable recommendations for improving translations of culturally rich works like The Witcher for a global audience.
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