Meaning Loss In The Translated Kimeru Proverbs And Idiomatic Expressions

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this study was to investigate meaning loss in the use of figurative language as a result of translation of Kimeru proverbs and idiomatic expressions into English. This study had three objectives: the first one being to identify and explain any instances of meaning loss in translation of a literary text from Kiimenti to English. Secondly, to explain the possible factors that contribute to meaning loss. Thirdly, to suggest possible ways of improving translation. The general assumption was that in translation of materials from one language into another, some meaning gets lost. The loss arises because of the differences that exist between two languages. The main data was drawn from a text book written by Mwiti (2004) entitled “Kimeru 1200 proverbs.” This book contains proverbs and idiomatic expressions in Kiimenti and their respective translations into English. Using the researcher’s native language intuition and linguistic knowledge background, samples of sixty texts which exhibit meaning loss were drawn. Data was collected through a questionnaire from twenty native Kiimenti speakers who are primary school teachers and are competent in both Kiimenti and English. The questionnaire required them to translate the texts in Kiimenti into English and those in English into Kiimenti. They were also required to choose whether the translations were difficult or not and to give reasons explaining if the translations were difficult. The study was guided by Cultural Theory of Translation, The Interpretive Theory and Relevance Theory. The data obtained was categorized into four linguistic themes; lexical, structural, cultural errors and the figurative use of language. Each category was then described, analyzed and discussed qualitatively. It was found out that meaning was lost after translation of Kiimenti proverbs and idiomatic expressions into English. A summary of the study is discussed briefly in chapter five. The recommendations for the study and suggested areas for further research are given. A conclusion for the whole study is given at the end of this chapter.