Read more
Many problems in translation arise because of mismatches between the source and receptor languages. A particularly relevant factor is whether or not the language normally places the verb at the end of the sentence, and whether or not the subject commonly follows the verb. Such potential mismatches are a major discussion in the eight chapters of this course.
Topics includedifferences between instruction and persuasion
connectives
variations in the order of constituents and propositions
prominence-giving, backgrounding and highlighting devices
relative potency of different forms of exhortation
boundary features
The course is designed particularly for those who expect to be involved in the translation of non-narrative texts from one language to another, whether as a mother tongue speaker, other tongue speaker or expatriate translator, consultant or advisor. It will also help anyone engaged in the study of non-narrative texts in any language in the world.
Recommended prerequisites are the completion of a Narrative Discourse Analysis* course, with associated field experience or its equivalent. Students will need a selection of non-narrative texts in the language they are studying.
*Self-Instruction Materials on Narrative Discourse Analysis is a companion volume to Self-Instruction Materials on Non-Narrative Discourse Analysis, published by SIL International® 2023.
About the author
Stephen H. Levinsohn is a senior linguistics consultant with SIL International. Since 1997 he has run Discourse for Translation workshops in 20 countries for linguist-translators working with over 400 languages, and continues to provide consultant help by email.
