Abstract

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Title:: Translation as Both Epistemological Target and Tool: Analyzing Translation Metaphors from the Perspective of Conceptual Metaphor Theory

Keywords:: translation metaphor; “YI IS YI译即易”; translation as target domain; translation as source domain

Abstract:: The theoretical discourse on translation in both Chinese and Western contexts is replete with metaphors, which can be broadly categorized into two main categories: one is “TRANSLATION IS X”, and the other is “X IS TRANSLATION”. Utilizing Conceptual Metaphor Theory as a tool, an analysis of these translation metaphors reveals that in the former type of metaphor, translation is conceptualized as the cognitive object, i.e., the target domain concept, imbued with ontological significance. In the latter type, translation is conceived as an epistemological tool, i.e., the source domain concept, for construing and representing other entities, thus carrying methodological significance. The profound insight of the Chinese traditional translation theory “YI IS YI译即易”(TO TRANSLATE IS TO CHANGE)encapsulates the core feature of translation. By using it as a root metaphor, a hierarchical system of conceptual metaphors is constructed, which delves deeper into the cognitive motivations underlying the diverse array of translation metaphor discourses in both Chinese and Western translation theories. In addition, this root metaphor “YI IS YI译即易” not only highlights the core feature of translation, but also offers a more rational explanation for translation being able to serve as a source domain for construing and representing conceptual domains such as education and cross-organization knowledge transfer.