Translating Euphemisms: Analyzing Functional Equivalence Theory in Context

Euphemism, as a linguistic and cultural phenomenon, plays a significant role in literary translation, embodying the subtleties and complexities of cultural nuances. The translation of literary works, especially those rich in cultural expressions like A Dream of Red Mansions, presents unique challenges and opportunities for exploring linguistic adaptation and fidelity. This study examines euphemism translation in Yang Xianyi’s rendition of A Dream of Red Mansions, employing functional equivalence theory to assess its application and challenges in literary contexts. By analyzing the application of functional equivalence in this context, the study aims to shed light on the broader implications and challenges of translating euphemisms in literary works, providing insights into the balance between literal accuracy and functional appropriateness in translation practice. The findings indicate that within the framework of functional equivalence theory, translating euphemism requires delicately balancing the preservation of the original meaning with considerations of the linguistic and cultural context of the target language, thereby presenting certain challenges and complexities.

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