Translate some excerpts from the book “The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth” by John C. Maxwell.

Abstract

This study takes an in-depth look into the challenges and strategies involved in translating a self-development book from English to Arabic. It specifically focuses on excerpts from "The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth." With an aim to navigate the linguistic, cultural, and rhetorical aspects of the translation process, the study seeks to discern the most effective techniques to retain the meaning and impact of the original text. One of the primary objectives of this research is to highlight the complexities of the translation process, and it does so by scrutinizing specific translation strategies such as functional equivalence, formal or linguistic equivalence, and addition or extended explanation. As for functional equivalence, it is believed that “the relationship of the target language receptors to the target language text should be roughly equivalent to the relationship between the original receptors and the original text”. (Zhang, and Wang, 2010). Formal or linguistic equivalence leans towards a more literal, word-for-word translation. And addition or extended explanation involves incorporating additional context or explanation in the target text to ensure clarity and comprehension. By adopting these strategies, the study aims to achieve a balance between maintaining the essence of the original text and ensuring its resonance with Arabic-speaking audiences. Further, the study delves into various translation cases. Each case presents an instance of translation where certain adjustments in sentence structures, idiomatic expressions, and connotations were required to preserve their intended meaning while adapting them to the target language and culture. Such cases underline the careful deliberation needed in selecting the appropriate translation strategy to navigate the complexities of linguistic and cultural differences. Finally, the study stresses the importance of being mindful of these aspects when translating. Understanding the nuances of language, appreciating cultural differences, and correctly interpreting rhetorical cues are critical in creating high-quality translations. Such translations not only resonate with the target audience but also effectively bridge linguistic and cultural gaps.