Corpus-Based Investigation of ExplicitaionShifts in Self-Translation

Abstract

The study examines explicitation shifts in the translation of the novel "Perfect Mentor" from its source text in Urdu (ST) to its target text (TT). Explicitation is the process of making something clear and unambiguous, divided into two levels: substitution and addition. The study used a corpus-based methodology and a valid framework for investigating explicitation shifts in the text. Results are presented both quantitatively and qualitatively, showing that obligatory explicitation leads to a uniform and understandable TT, while optional explicitation may have both positive and negative impacts on the TT's style and added elements. Pragmatic explicitation was found to be neutral. To avoid awkward structures and misunderstandings, the translator must strive to maintain a balanced text and appropriate use of explicitness strategies, considering the language typology.