Abstract:This paper analyzes main points that should be paid attention to in the translation of Chinese public signs into English based on Communicative Translation put forward by Peter Newmark. When translating public signs, the translator should bear the readers in mind and be familiar with the function of the language and its linguistic characteristics. The paper first introduces the theory of Communicative Translation, analyzes the features of public signs translation, and then puts forward some aspects that merit attention in the English translation of Chinese public signs, such as “Be concise”; “Use conventional expressions”; “Avoid word-for word translation”, and “Pay attention to cultural differenes”. In conclusion, the paper points out the importance of C-E Translation of Public Signs and calls for the attention of translators.
Key words: Public signs, Communicative Translation, Function
摘要:本文分析了中国公共场所的标识语英译时应注意的主要问题。主要提出翻译标识语时,译者应熟悉汉英标识语的功能意义和语言特点,并建议公示语翻译时要以彼得·纽马克的交际翻译理论为依据。文章介绍了中文公共标识语的定义,特点等， 结合理论分析了中文公共标识语英译过程中应特别注意的问题。 语言方面要注意:公示语翻译应简洁、使用符合英语惯例的表达、避免逐字翻译； 另一方面要注意中西方文化差异所引起的语用失误,这一点较容易为译者所忽略,如果在翻译中不加以注意,会引起外国人的误解,不快,甚至关系到一个国家民族的尊严问题。文章强调了中文公共标识语英译的重要性，并唤起语言工作者的注意,以期望提高翻译质量。
关键词：标识语、交际翻译、语言功能、错误
