Theoretical Thinking vs Theorization in Translation

Abstract

Since translation concerns all disciplines, we may ask whether it is possible to conduct theoretical research peculiar to translations, or to what extent theoretical thinking is possible in a field of study which has a nexus of complex relations with other disciplines. We can answer these questions if we understand why we have a recourse to theorization in translation. Since the defining feature of theory as a complex set of relations overlaps with the concept of translation, they both involve complex mental procedures. Mental procedures in both actions operate similarly; that is to say, both theorists and translators draw up analogies between similar cases in order to define, classify and categorize the components of complexity. In theorization these procedures are called “abstraction” and “simplification”; whereas in translation studies, we call it “deverbalization”. It means stripping the linguistic form of a text, or a document so as to understand the sense of it (Gile 2003:47). Accordingly, we can reach such a conclusion that both translation and theorization follow the same logical sequence in understanding and overcoming the complexity. In the light of these introductory remarks the present study discusses the concept of theory, and theorization both in translation and translation studies so as to draw up similarities and divergencies between translation theory and translation practice.