Name : Bonafentura Yoan Olivia (F1022211014)

Mita Novanti (F1022211031)

Subject : Translation B (mid-term test)

Thesis Statement: Translation is a complex and multifaceted art that demands the
translator's meticulous consideration of choices between literal and free translation, the
pursuit of translation equivalence, and the careful balancing of grammatical and lexical
choices. This essay explores the intricacies of translation, highlighting Baker's approach to
achieve equilibrium in the translation process and emphasizing the significance of
maintaining grammatical and lexical cohesion, ultimately illuminating translation's role as a
bridge connecting different linguistic and cultural realms.

The Equivalence, Choices, and Cohesion of Translation

Translation is a complex art that requires precision and creativity. It involves choosing
between literal and free translation while aiming for translation equivalence. In this essay,
we will explore this field, with a focus on Baker's approach to translation equivalence, as
well as the intricacies of equivalence at various levels, the role of grammatical and lexical
choices, major grammatical categories, and the balance between grammatical cohesion and
lexical cohesion. We will also discuss the network of grammatical and lexical relations that
link different parts of a text.
Translation can be likened to a tightrope walk, where the translator faces the challenge of
deciding between literal translation and free translation. Literal translation stays close to the
source text, preserving its words and structure, while free translation emphasizes the source
text's essence and adapts it for the target audience. Baker's approach suggests a balanced
approach based on context and audience.
Equivalence in translation operates at different levels. At the word level, translators must
find target language equivalents that convey the source text's precise meaning, which is part
of grammatical equivalence. However, translation goes beyond individual words; it also
involves textual equivalence, where the flow and coherence of the text are vital for a natural
and readable translation. Pragmatic equivalence is essential, as it requires understanding the
source text's cultural and contextual nuances to resonate with the target audience.
Translators must make choices, whether grammatical or lexical, to shape the translation's
outcome. Balancing grammatical and lexical choices is crucial, with major grammatical
categories like tense, mood, and voice playing a significant role in conveying meaning and
tone.
Additionally, achieving grammatical cohesion and lexical cohesion ensures that the
translation flows smoothly and faithfully conveys the source text's intent. Translators must
create sentences that connect seamlessly, and vocabulary choices must contribute to a
coherent narrative. In translation, the network of grammatical and lexical relations functions
as formal links, maintaining the translation's structural integrity and preserving the original's
semantic richness.
In conclusion, translation is a nuanced art that requires balancing faithfulness to the source
text and adaptation to the target audience. Baker's approach provides guidance, and
equivalence operates at various levels, involving careful consideration of grammatical and
lexical choices within major grammatical categories. Achieving grammatical and lexical
cohesion while navigating the network of relations is essential for successful translation.
Translation serves as a bridge, connecting diverse worlds through language.

Chosen noun phrases and sentences:

1. literal translation vs free translation
2. the concept of translation equivalence
3. Baker’s approach to translation equivalence
4. equivalence at word level
5. equivalence above word level
6. grammatical equivalence
7. textual equivalence
8. pragmatic equivalence
9. grammatical choices vs lexical choices
10. some major grammatical categories
11. grammatical cohesion and lexical cohesion
12. the network of grammatical and lexical relations which provide formal links between
various parts of a text.