Beyond Literal Translation

Abstract

There is no gainsaying the importance of capturing intended meanings while translating a document from one language into another. This means that literal translations where only surface meanings or denotations are analyzed dissimulate deeper pragmatic considerations that are indispensable in the production of sense or meaning. This article reviews some of the challenges and options that translators have to contend with in the dicey game of reconstructing intended meanings or sense.

Key words: translation, meaning, sense, literal.