INTRODUCTION 1.1 Statement of the problem and the rationale of the study
Aims and objectives of the study
This study explores the similarities and differences in the connotations of animal-related proverbs and idioms in English and Vietnamese cultures It examines the type of correspondence each proverb or idiom falls under, assessing the extent of similarity in meaning between the two languages Ultimately, the analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of these cultural expressions.
3 translation procedures will be given to choose the most suitable one for each type of proverbs and idioms about animals
To fulfill the given aims, the research tries to answer the following questions:
1 What are similarities and differences of connotations of animal-related proverbs and idioms between the English-speaking and Vietnamese culture?
2 What are the type of correspondences of the English - Vietnamese translation of animal-related proverbs and idioms?
3 What are translation procedures for each type of English - Vietnamese translation of animal-related proverbs and idioms?
Significance of the study
This study aims to serve as a valuable resource for translators, researchers, and readers interested in the cultural nuances between English and Vietnamese through translation analysis Building on previous research with positive outcomes, it will explore the applicability of existing findings to the context of English-Vietnamese translation in cultural domains The methodology and results of this study are expected to provide guidance for future translators, particularly in addressing cultural issues related to the translation of proverbs and idioms involving animals.
Scope of the study
Cultural factors significantly influence translation, particularly in the realm of proverbs and idioms These expressions often contain metaphorical imagery, with animals being the most commonly used symbols This prevalence highlights the deep connection between language and culture, making the translation of proverbs and idioms a crucial area of study in understanding cultural nuances.
4 familiar to human life It is clear that the translation of proverbs and idioms about animals is the main target of this study.
Organization of the paper
The rest of the study is as following:
Chapter 2 (Literature review) constructs a theoretical background of the related terms like translation, proverb, idiom, culture, connotation, equivalent, and correspondence, as well as a summary of related studies on the similar research subject: proverbs and idiom about animals
Chapter 3 (Methodology) describes qualitative method that the study follows including sampling, data (proverbs and idioms) collection and data (proverbs and idioms) analysis
Chapter 4 (Findings and discussion) answers the research questions from the gathered data in order to draw the results: which procedures can be applied, and the cultural comparison between the Vietnamese and English-speaking cultures
Chapter 5 (Conclusion) summarizes discussed issues about translation of English proverbs and idioms in cultural domain and then mentions the shortcomings of the study as well as recommendations for the future investigations
LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Translation 2.1.1 Definition of translation
Translation procedures and translation methods
The translation process necessitates the use of appropriate methods tailored to the specific type of text, such as poems, songs, or political articles Selecting the right translation method based on the text type and the translator's objectives is crucial for enhancing the quality of the target text (TT) in relation to the source text (ST) Each translation method should align with the characteristics of the text; for instance, faithful translation is ideal for authoritative texts, semantic translation suits religious or legal documents, and adaptation is best for creative works like poems and songs.
In 2010, Aalborg University highlighted that the primary aim of translation methods and procedures is to achieve maximal equivalence or equivalent effect, meaning the target text should evoke the same response in its readers as the source text does Peter Newmark illustrates various translation methods using a flattened V diagram to further explain this concept.
Word-for-word translation Adaptation Literal translation Free translation
Here are several effective translation methods that a translator can choose from, allowing for easy adaptation to their tasks and ensuring optimal impact and effectiveness in line with the intended purpose of the translation.
Word-for-word translation, also known as inter-linear translation, involves placing the target language (TL) text directly beneath the source language (SL) words This method maintains the original word order while translating each word using its most common meaning.
Literal translation: The SL grammatical constructions are converted to their nearest TL equivalents but the lexical words are again translated singly out of context
Faithful translation aims to accurately convey the original's contextual meaning while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language It strives to remain true to the author's intentions, ensuring that the essence of the source text is preserved.
Semantic translation: It may translate less important cultural words and small concessions to the readership and allows the translator to easily render the TL naturally and adaptably
Adaptation is primarily utilized in plays, particularly comedies, and is considered the most flexible form of translation and poetry In this process, the original themes and characters are maintained while the text is rewritten to reflect the target language culture, effectively transforming the source language culture into one that resonates with the target audience.
Free translation: It reproduces the matter without the manner, or the content without the form of the original
Idiomatic translation: It reproduces the messages of the original but tends to distort nuances of meaning by preferring colloquialism and idiom where this do not exist in the original
Communicative translation: It attempts to render the exact contextual meaning of the original in a way that both content and language are readily acceptable and comprehensible to the readership
Translation methods and procedures, while both aimed at facilitating the translation process, are distinctly different according to Newmark (1988b) Translation methods pertain to entire texts, whereas translation procedures focus on individual sentences and smaller language units This differentiation is crucial for effective translation practices.
This article focuses on nine subjects related to proverbs and idioms, utilizing translation procedures to analyze research participants in the data analysis section Ordudari's study on translation procedures highlights two key methods: Technical procedures and Organizational procedures, as outlined by Nida in 1964.
A Analysis of the source and target languages;
B A thorough study of the source language text before making attempts translate it;
C Making judgments of the semantic and syntactic approximations (pp 241-45)
Regularly reassessing translation efforts is crucial This involves comparing one's work with existing translations by other translators and evaluating the text's communicative effectiveness Engaging target language readers for feedback on accuracy and effectiveness, as well as analyzing their reactions, can provide valuable insights for improvement.
And Graedler (2000:3) quoted forth procedures of translating culture-specific concepts:
2 Explaining the meaning of the SL expression in lieu of translating it
3 Preserving the SL term intact
4 Opting for a word in the TL which seems similar to or has the same "relevance" as the SL term
Differently, here are the basic procedures among a huge bunch of Newmark’s (1988b) that the researcher chose to apply in the data analysis section:
Transference or Borrowing: it is the process of transferring an SL word to a TL text It includes transliteration
Naturalization: it adapts the SL word first to the normal pronunciation, then to the normal morphology of the TL (Newmark, 1988b:82)
Cultural equivalent: it means replacing a cultural word in the SL with a TL one however, "they are not accurate" (Newmark, 1988b:83)
Functional equivalent: it requires the use of a culture-neutral word (Newmark,
Descriptive equivalent: in this procedure the meaning of the cultural-bound terms is explained in several words (Newmark, 1988b:83)
Through-translation or Calque: it is the literal translation of common collocations, names of organizations and components of compounds (Newmark, 1988b:84)
Shifts or transpositions in translation involve grammatical changes from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL) This includes altering singular forms to plural, adapting structures that lack direct equivalents in the TL, and converting SL verbs or noun groups into their TL counterparts.
Modulation refers to the process in which a translator conveys the original message in the target language (TL) while adhering to its contemporary norms, acknowledging that the source language (SL) and TL may differ in perspective.
Couplets: it occurs when the translator combines two different procedures
Cultural Equivalence
In translation studies, the concept of equivalence is crucial for effective translation practices, particularly in our globalized world where cross-cultural communication influences language and translation Despite numerous attempts to define equivalence, debates and controversies persist Essentially, equivalence refers to the relationship between a source text and its target text, establishing that one is a translation of the other Successful translation relies heavily on the application of equivalence.
Newmark’s procedures are widely utilized for translating various text types, including culture-bound terms, proverbs, and idioms Unlike standard words, culture-bound terms encompass not only linguistic meaning but also cultural traits conveyed through imagery To effectively analyze translation methods for these specific terms, the concept of equivalence—defined as a word’s equal meaning in the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary—must be considered In translation, particularly of proverbs and idioms, culture-bound terms reflect unique values, beliefs, and narratives that may be unfamiliar to other cultures Consequently, many English proverbs and idioms lack direct equivalents or exact meanings in Vietnamese, highlighting the challenges of achieving equivalence from the source language to the target language.
TL as Jakobson points out (1959/2000) that “there is ordinary no full equivalence between code-units”, given by Munday (2001)
Equivalence-oriented translation, as defined by Vinay and Darbelnet in Leonardi's study, is a method that recreates the same situation as the original text while employing entirely different wording In essence, equivalence involves conveying the same idea through alternative expressions.
Definition of other key terms
2.2.1 Definition of proverbs and idioms
Proverbs and idioms are integral to cultural expression, commonly found in languages such as English and Vietnamese While they are frequently used, their structures and applications can be complex, reflecting the unique nuances of each culture.
12 traits Although sharing the same status in language, proverbs and idioms are comparatively distinguished
An idiom is a phrase whose meaning differs from the individual words it contains, often having both a literal and an idiomatic interpretation depending on the context These expressions typically do not adhere to standard grammatical rules, yet they maintain a fixed grammatical structure For example, the idiom "to sit on the fence" cannot be altered to "to sit on a fence" or "to sit on the fences."
A proverb is a widely recognized short saying that imparts wisdom, truth, or moral lessons derived from common sense and practical experience These expressions often encapsulate fundamental rules of conduct that are universally acknowledged and should be adhered to by everyone Proverbs exist in every language, reflecting shared human values and insights.
Culture encompasses the collective knowledge and experiences shared by a significant group of people It includes beliefs, values, attitudes, and religious practices, as well as concepts of time, social roles, spatial relationships, and material possessions This rich tapestry of understanding is built over generations through both individual and communal efforts.
A cultural domain can be defined as a collection of items belonging to the same category, such as "animals," which includes all creatures recognized by people, like dogs, cats, horses, lions, and tigers This concept emphasizes that membership in a cultural domain is not just based on personal perception but is influenced by broader cultural understanding and consensus.
The preferences for colors that individuals choose to wear do not constitute a cultural domain, as they reflect personal taste rather than broader cultural expressions found in language, culture, or reality.
A cultural domain refers to a grouping of items that share a commonality, encompassing various aspects related to culture within a specific community This concept includes all elements that contribute to the cultural identity and practices of a society.
Cultural correspondence refers to the complete alignment of a source language (SL) cultural term with a target language (TL) term, both in function and description, as defined by Ghazala (2001) and cited by Razieh in his analysis of cultural connotations of animals in translation Nida (1964) suggests that while a translation can closely reflect the original text, the exact identity of corresponding symbols may differ In this study, the researcher examines how the same animal may possess similar, partly similar, or entirely different attributes and connotations in English and Vietnamese cultures Mirroring Razieh's research, the study categorizes cultural correspondence in animal proverbs and idioms into three main types: absolute correspondence, partial correspondence, and no correspondence, which will serve as criteria for analyzing and classifying the collected data.
Vietnamese equivalent is similar or close to the English proverbs and idioms
Animal imagery in proverbs and idioms is consistent across different cultures, demonstrating a shared understanding of these symbols Both the source language (SL) and target language (TL) utilize the same animal concepts in their expressions, indicating that these animals carry similar connotations globally Consequently, English proverbs and idioms featuring these common animals can be accurately translated in both content and form, highlighting the universal nature of these cultural expressions.
The cultural differences between two countries highlight the disparities in the connotative meanings of animal words between the source language (SL) and the target language (TL) Consequently, an animal word in the SL may correspond to a different animal term in the TL, reflecting these cultural nuances.
In other word, the animal word used in the SL is different from the animal word used in the TL although they have the same connotative meaning
Cultural differences can result in varying connotations for animal-related terms, sometimes leading to the absence of corresponding concepts between source and target languages Consequently, animal words used in proverbs or idioms may hold distinct meanings in each language, potentially rendering them unknown or meaningless to speakers of the other language.
Razieh highlights that the variations in cultural environments lead to differing perceptions of animals in English, Persian, and Vietnamese contexts Consequently, the cultural connotation of a specific animal can significantly differ between languages, illustrating how the same animal may carry distinct meanings across cultures.
Connotation, as defined by Dictionary.com, refers to the secondary meanings of words beyond their explicit definitions; for instance, "home" evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and affection In this study, the connotation of animal-related words connects their habits and characteristics with the associative meanings held in people's minds This concept is crucial for analyzing English proverbs and idioms.
Relationship among language, culture and translation
The intricate relationship between language, culture, and translation has long captivated experts, as highlighted by Salehi in 2012, who referenced Lambert's assertion that language is a crucial aspect of cultural identity It is widely accepted that culture is fully expressed through language within a specific speech community, while translation plays a vital role in conveying cultural traits across different languages for a global audience This connection among language, culture, and translation has become increasingly evident in today's era of globalization, underscoring their profound and interwoven relationship.
Language is a powerful tool in human history, enabling communication and expression of feelings, attitudes, ideas, and beliefs It plays a crucial role in passing down traditions and customs to future generations, particularly through oral transmission As noted by Hongwei (1999), the significance of language in cultural continuity cannot be overstated.
Language serves as a reflection of culture, encapsulating and promoting various cultural elements while facilitating their growth, as highlighted by Salehi (2012) This underscores the profound and reciprocal relationship between language and culture, revealing how deeply intertwined they are.
Translation has evolved significantly to meet the demands of globalization, enabling people around the world to connect with each other's cultures through language This essential tool serves as a bridge between language and culture, highlighting how both elements reflect cultural nuances in distinct contexts.
Previous related studies 16 CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
Animal-related proverbs and idioms are a significant topic of interest, with numerous prior studies available for further exploration This research aims to build on previous findings to enhance the English-Vietnamese translation of animal-related proverbs and idioms Razieh's study presents various English proverbs and idioms related to animals, along with their Persian translations, analyzing their meanings and cultural contexts to identify similarities and differences This analysis leads to the development of appropriate translation procedures for English-Persian correspondences By applying Razieh's findings to English-Vietnamese translation, this study seeks to contribute meaningfully to translation practices in Vietnam, focusing on the cultural domains of English and Vietnamese through selected proverbs and idioms.
This chapter outlines the methodology employed in the study, focusing on a qualitative approach to gather and analyze English proverbs and idioms It details the sampling process, the collection of data, and the subsequent analysis of the collected proverbs and idioms, emphasizing the exploration of cultural differences inherent in the language.
Qualitative approach
This study employs a qualitative approach to analyze English proverbs and idioms related to animals Building on Razieh's research on the cultural connotations of animals in translation between English and Persian, this research adapts the methodology to focus on English-Vietnamese translation.
This study focuses on the translation of animal-related proverbs and idioms in English, examining their cultural significance and equivalences To analyze the cultural features of these expressions, the research categorizes them into three groups: absolute correspondence (Group 1), partial correspondence (Group 2), and no correspondence (Group 3), allowing for a detailed exploration of similarities and differences in their cultural connotations.
Sampling
The study will utilize simple random sampling to select 60 English proverbs and idioms related to animals, chosen purposefully for a comprehensive analysis of the various connotations associated with different animals These samples will be categorized into three groups: absolute correspondence, partial correspondence, and no correspondence, ensuring a thorough examination of their meanings.
18 analyzed in terms of connotative meaning and the cultural root reasoning in order to define the proper translation procedures for each group.
Data collection instruments
An observation of documents and artifacts has been employed as a data collection instruments After an observation, the researcher will have input data for the analysis of the outcomes.
Data collection procedure
The researcher aims to address the research questions using a qualitative approach, gathering data from reputable sources of idioms and proverbs in both English and Vietnamese Key references include the Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs, the Oxford Dictionary of Idioms, and the Cambridge Idioms.
Dictionary or online English articles, learning English websites like learn-english- today.com
The researcher has meticulously compiled and categorized a list of animal-related proverbs and idioms, providing their meanings in Vietnamese This analysis aims to uncover the cultural significance of each expression, which will subsequently inform the translation procedures employed.
Data analysis procedures
In this qualitative study, a content analysis will be conducted to classify the observation results of English proverbs and idioms related to animals, alongside their Vietnamese equivalents, into three specific groups The analysis will include a thick description that encompasses both the description and interpretation of the behaviors observed in the research samples After incorporating the researcher’s translations, a comparative analysis of the English and Vietnamese versions of these proverbs and idioms will be performed to highlight similarities and differences.
19 similarities or differences between two culture connotations so that the translation procedures for each type of proverbs and idioms can be determined.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 4.1 Absolute correspondence
Findings
Analysis on similarities and differences
Nước mắt của cá sấu
Crocodiles are often viewed negatively in both English and Vietnamese cultures, where they are associated with cruelty and aggression This perception instills fear in people, making it difficult for them to feel any sympathy for these creatures.
Như con ếch ở trong giếng Ếch ngồi đáy giếng
The well-known image of the foolish yet arrogant frog confined to a well symbolizes individuals who lack understanding and awareness of the broader world outside This metaphor is prevalent in various cultures, illustrating the limitations of those who are unaware of the beauty and possibilities beyond their immediate surroundings.
3 As closed as an oyster Câm như hến We rarely hear the sound
Literal translation of an oyster This is widely perceived by all people to say about the people who do not say much and somehow reliable
4 Every dog is valiant at his own door
Mỗi con chó đều dữ khi ở nhà của nó
Both animals and humans appear to exhibit increased aggression and recklessness in their environments, a trend that carries negative implications in various countries.
5 Even the worm has turned
Thậm chí con giun cũng lật
Con giun xéo mãi cũng quằn
When a usually meek person or group of people becomes angry
Nước dội vào đầu con vịt
In various cultures, the term "duck" often carries a negative connotation, referring to someone perceived as foolish or struggling with comprehension and learning This interpretation is widely recognized and reflected in proverbs across different societies.
Con sói trong quần áo con cừu
In both countries, the deceptive nature of a villain masquerading as innocent mirrors the contrasting imagery of a wolf and a sheep; the wolf symbolizes cruelty and cunning, while the sheep represents gentleness and a lack of threat.
8 Kill two birds with one stone
Giết hai con chim bằng một hòn đá
Một mũi tên trúng hai con chim
You succeed in doing two things at the same time The connotative meaning of shooting a bird is familiar to both languages
Two individuals who often argue like cats and dogs may have intense disagreements, yet they still care for one another deeply This dynamic mirrors the relationship between cats and dogs, both of which are common household pets that coexist under one roof while frequently clashing.
23 conflicts Both English and Vietnamese people know about this
10 To walk into the lion's den Đi vào hang sư tử Đi vào hang cọp
Encountering unfriendly or aggressive individuals can be challenging, often likened to walking into a lion's den, a phrase that symbolizes facing danger and difficulties In both cultures, the lion is seen as a formidable threat, underscoring the risks involved in such confrontations.
Many individuals, known as "night owls," thrive during the nighttime, often staying awake late into the night regardless of their regional time zone.
Heo nái biết leo cây
The disbelief, or the idea that miracles might happen but are extremely unlikely This proverb is well-known in both two
Someone is cunning and clever at getting what they want, especially by deceiving or tricking people This connotation of a fox is popularly perceived by all people in the world
A person who feigns friendship while secretly betraying you is often referred to as a "snake." This term draws on the reputation of snakes as dangerous creatures capable of delivering lethal bites Consequently, the imagery of a snake effectively symbolizes individuals who pose a hidden threat despite appearing friendly.
Discussion
Table 1 reveals the similarities in the connotations of certain animals in English and Vietnamese Each animal embodies distinct traits that are used metaphorically to describe human characteristics For instance, a "fox" or "wolf" symbolizes cunning individuals, while a "sheep" represents innocence, and a "snake" is often associated with deceitfulness.
25 dangerous one, “lion” is detached to the danger, “cat and dog” together means fighting, and “duck” is somehow silly one, etc
In both cultures, the connotative meanings of animal-related proverbs align closely, allowing for effective translation methods such as the Literal procedure and, occasionally, the Cultural Equivalent This approach enables translators to convey the original language's content directly into the target language without needing to interpret the underlying implications or adapt the expressions When a source language (SL) word has a corresponding target language (TL) equivalent, the SL grammatical structures can be transferred one-to-one to their nearest TL counterparts.
Partial correspondence
Analysis on similarities and differences
1 An old fox not easily snared
Cáo già không dễ bị gài bẫy
Gừng càng già càng cay
Elderly individuals possess wisdom and experience, making them less susceptible to deception In Vietnamese culture, this understanding is often symbolized by the cat, an animal that holds significant familiarity and meaning.
2 Each bird loves to hear himself sing
Mèo khen mèo dài đuôi
Humans often exhibit a sense of pride, believing that their possessions are superior This sentiment is mirrored in Vietnamese culture, where a different animal symbolizes the same idea.
3 Feel like duck in water
Cảm thấy như vịt trong nước
To do something naturally and easily, without fear or hesitation
As both duck and fish is known as the water-based animals; but in different cultures, the usage of them are different
Dơi bay khỏi địa ngục
The phrase "like a bat out of hell" describes something that moves extremely quickly In English, "bat" often symbolizes fear or death, while in Vietnamese, it is commonly associated with the concept of a "ghost."
5 To eat like a horse Ăn như ngựa Ăn như heo
In English-speaking cultures, the horse is often associated with voracious eating, while in Vietnamese culture, this association is attributed to the pig This difference may stem from Vietnam's agricultural background, where pigs are a common and significant animal Both connotations serve to describe individuals who consume more than the average amount.
In Vietnamese culture, the term "dragon" refers to a domineering and aggressive woman, while in the context of Ha Dong, a former province of China, it symbolizes the fierce lions that once roamed the area Given Vietnam's proximity to China, this idiom is commonly used in Vietnamese language and culture.
7 Love me, love my dog
Yêu nhau yêu cả đường đi
This expression means that if someone loves you, they must love everything about you, including
Yêu tôi, yêu chó của tôi
Functional Equivalent everyone and everything that you love The dog has the positive connotation in English-speaking countries while in Vietnam, it refers to the negative meaning
8 A leopard cannot change its spots
Con báo khó đổi đốm của nó
Giang sơn dễ đổi, bản tính khó dời
A person's identity and character are inherent and cannot be altered This saying holds different meanings across cultures, influenced by historical contexts In Vietnam's past, the nation was characterized by a monarchy that often faced challenges in its transformation.
Những năm của con lừa
The article explores the concept of someone who has been engaged in an activity for an extended period, drawing parallels between cultural references In English, the simile of a donkey represents slowness, while in Vietnamese, the turtle serves a similar purpose, highlighting how each animal is emblematic of its respective culture's perception of patience and persistence.
10 Even a blind squirrel can find a nut once in a while
Sometimes people can be correct just by being lucky In English, the image of squirrel is more popular while in Vietnamese, dog is closer
In addition, this proverbs somehow
29 negative implication to some extents, and dog connotation is Vietnamese does, too
When you feel cold or frightened, your skin may develop small raised bumps, commonly referred to as "goosebumps" in English Interestingly, the Vietnamese language uses the term related to chickens, highlighting cultural differences in expressions for this phenomenon.
Thịt cừu mặc như thịt cừu
In Vietnamese culture, a middle-aged woman attempting to appear younger by wearing clothing intended for a younger demographic is often likened to a calf that has been separated from its mother This metaphor highlights the disconnect between her age and her fashion choices, illustrating the societal perception of age-appropriate attire.
Again, Vietnam is the agricultural country so the connotation of paddy is very popular Therefore,
“paddy” is used to say about making no noise at all while in English, that is “mouse”
14 Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered
Contentment comes from having enough; excessive greed, akin to a hog, can lead to losing it all.
A person, organization or country that is less powerful or threatening than they appear to be With the same expression but the words used are dissimilar in two languages
Cultural differences can lead to partial correspondence in the meanings of animal-related words, even when their connotations are similar Variations arise from differing cultural concepts and the unique connotations assigned to animals in different societies For instance, while dogs carry a positive connotation in English-speaking countries, they are viewed negatively in Vietnam, reflecting contrasting cultural norms Similarly, animals like chickens, calves, and paddies hold significant meanings tied to Vietnam's agricultural traditions, which may not resonate in other cultures.
In translation, two commonly used methods are functional procedure and cultural equivalent Functional equivalence prioritizes the meaning of proverbs, idioms, and sayings over their literal form, ensuring that the essence is preserved On the other hand, cultural equivalence involves finding suitable equivalents from the source language (SL) to the target language (TL), even if this approach may not always yield precise translations.
No correspondence
Analysis on similarities and differences
In Vietnamese culture, the comparison of an irritable person to a bear suffering from a headache may not be readily understood Consequently, translators must provide a more detailed explanation of this proverb to convey its true meaning effectively.
2 A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Một con chim trong tay giá trị hơn hai con trong bụi
Có một chắc trong tay còn hơn hai mà không nắm chắc
It is better to be content with that you have than to risk losing everything by seeking to get more That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
Trăn trở về điều gì
Someone who has a bee in their bonnet has an idea which constantly occupies their thoughts That is also not familiar to the
4 To pull a rabbit out of the hat
Lôi con thỏ ra khỏi mũ Đột ngột gây bất ngờ với người khác
The phrase refers to unexpectedly demonstrating a high level of skill to resolve an issue, akin to the renowned conjurer's tricks popular in Western cultures However, this expression is not commonly utilized among Vietnamese speakers.
5 To be like a dog with two tails
Như con chó có hai đuôi
The phrase "like a dog with two tails" signifies extreme happiness in English-speaking countries, highlighting the positive connotation associated with dogs However, in Vietnam, this expression carries a negative meaning, illustrating the cultural differences in interpretation.
6 To have butterflies in your stomach
Có những con bướm trong dạ dày
Rất căng thẳng về chuyện gì
The feeling of anxiousness/nervousness you get That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
7 To have ants in one's pants
Bồn chồn, lòng nóng như lửa đốt
People who have ants in their pants are very restless or excited about something That is also not
Có những con kiến ở trong quần
Equivalent familiar to the Vietnamese culture
Cờ đỏ cho con bò
Khiến ai nổi điên lên
The phrase "to raise someone's ire" refers to making someone extremely angry or upset Originating from the popular Western tradition of bullfighting, this idiom highlights a cultural reference that is not present in Vietnam.
9 A cat in gloves catches no mice
Con mèo trong gang tay không bắt được chuột
Cận thận dè dặt khó làm nên chuyện
If you are too careful and polite, you may not obtain what you want That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
Con ếch trong cổ họng Đau họng
A person has difficulty in speaking clearly because they have a cough or a sore throat That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
11 To open a can of worms
Mở cái hộp toàn sâu
Gặp nhiều khó khăn, vất vả khi làm việc gì
To do something that exposes a very difficult issue or set of problems That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
A product or service which is a regular source of income for a
13 To back/bet on the wrong horse
Trao niềm tin nhầm người
You support the wrong person That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
The largest portion, or the best part as described in this proverb is not clear in Vietnamese culture
15 Monkey business Công việc khỉ
An activity which is organized in a deceitful or dishonest way That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
In many Western cultures, individuals who exhibit deviant behavior and are viewed as disreputable by their families are often likened to a "black sheep," contrasting with the accepted norm of the "white sheep." This metaphor highlights how those who stray from societal expectations can feel isolated and marginalized within their family units.
Vietnamese does not feed sheep, so they are not familiar to the sheep’s connotation
Kẻ tiểu nhân Someone is bad, dishonest or have
Thấp hơn cả bụng rắn Descriptive
Equivalent very low moral standards That is also not familiar to the Vietnamese culture
In the realm of proverbs and idioms, certain expressions lack direct equivalents between source and target languages due to cultural and historical differences This absence means that there is no precise Vietnamese counterpart for specific English phrases As noted by Razieh, when a particular connotative meaning associated with an animal in a proverb or idiom is missing, translators often resort to Descriptive equivalence, which involves explaining culture-bound terms using multiple words (Newmark, 1988b:83) For instance, expressions like "snake's belly," "black sheep," and "cash cow" illustrate the absence of direct equivalents in this category.
CONCLUSION 5.1 Summary of findings
Limitations of the study and suggestions for further research
Despite the researcher's efforts to address the gaps in this underexplored topic from previous studies, certain limitations remain that could not be adequately addressed within the constraints of this paper.
This study focuses on examining the translation procedures of English proverbs and idioms related to animals, while also providing an in-depth analysis of the cultural factors that influence their translation To comprehensively explore this topic, it is essential to investigate the rhetorical devices commonly employed in both languages.
Analyzing Vietnamese and English proverbs and idioms reveals both similarities and differences, enriching our understanding of cultural nuances This examination not only highlights the unique aspects of each language but also addresses broader culture-related issues, contributing to the overall study of language and communication.
This study exclusively examines the translation of English proverbs and idioms into Vietnamese, highlighting the importance of these expressions However, it is essential to acknowledge that neglecting Vietnamese proverbs and idioms would be a missed opportunity, as they significantly contribute to the richness and cultural diversity of the Vietnamese language.
The quality of translation equivalents and versions largely depends on the researcher's comprehension of translation studies and cultural nuances A translator with a deeper understanding of these elements is likely to produce a superior translation.
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Munday, J (2001) Introducing Translation Studies New York: Routledge
Sari, F (2009) An Analysis of Translation Procedures of Translating computer term in Andrews tanenbaum 3 rd Computer Networks into Bahasa Indonesia
Newmark, P (1988a) Approaches to Translation Hertfordshire: Prentice Hall
Newmark, P (1988b) A Textbook of Translation Hertfordshire: Prentice Hall
The Aalborg University Retrieved February 20 th , 2013 from http://www.hum.aau.dk/~kim/BoT10/bot5.pdf
Ordudari, M (2007) Translation procedures, strategies and methods: Isfahan
Nida, E A (1964) Towards a science of translation, with special reference to principles and procedures involved in Bible translating Leiden: Brill
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Turnbull & Joanna et al (2010).Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary (8th
Ghazala, H (2001) Cross-cultural link in translation Retrieve March 6, 2009 from http://www.arabization.org.ma/downloads/majalla/50/pdf/51.pdf
Salehi, M (2012) Reflections on Culture, Language and Translation Journal of
Lambert, J (2000) Cultural studies, the study of cultures and the question of language: facing/ excluding in new millennium In D Delabastita , L D'hulst,
Functional approach to culture and translation (pp.163-172).Amsterdam:John
Hongwei, C (1999) Cultural difference and translation Translations' Journal, 44,
Cultural shock is a significant experience that can arise when adapting to a new environment, as discussed by Graedler (2000) It highlights the challenges faced by individuals when they encounter unfamiliar cultural norms and practices For further insights into language learning and idiomatic expressions, one can refer to resources such as "Your teacher at inhand," which offers valuable information on animal idioms and their usage in English.
1 An old fox is not easily snared
Sống lâu ra lão làng, gừng càng già càng cay, mèo già hóa cáo
The old people are experienced and not easy to be deceived
2 Each bird loves to hear himself sing
Mèo khen mèo dài đuôi
Humans have the inclination to be conceited, seeing objects belonging to them are the best
To shed false tears or show insincere grief
4 Feel like duck in water
Như diều gặp gió, như cá gặp nước
To do something naturally and easily, without fear or hesitation
5 You cannot teach an old dog new tricks
Giang sơn dễ đổi, bản tính khó dời
People who have long been used to do some things in a particular way will
42 not easily change their habits
6 Like a frog in a well Ếch ngồi đáy giếng
People are arrogant but silly and unknown about the world
Câm như hến Someone who is as close as an oyster will never reveal something told in confidence or betray a secret
8 A leopard cannot change its spots
Giang sơn dễ đổi bản tính khó dời
A person cannot change who they are and their identity, and characters
9 A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Có một chắc trong tay còn hơn hai mà không nắm chắc
It is better to be content with that you have than to risk losing everything by seeking to get more
10 The early bird catc hes the worm
Người đi trước là người có lợi
The person who gets started earl y has a better chance of success
11 Every dog is Chó cậy gần People tend to be Absolute Literal
43 valiant at his own door nhà, more valiant when in their own territory, where they know everything best and the advantages that they have
12 A bookworm Mọt sách People who love books a lot and read all the times
13 To be like a dog with two tails
If someone is like a dog with two tails, they are extremely happy
14 To eat like a horse Ăn như heo People eat a lot than normal
Criticism or comments which have no effect on someone is referred to as being ''like water off a duck's back
16 To pull a rabbit out of Đột ngột gây bất ngờ với to surprise everyone by suddenly doing
44 the hat người khác something that shows a lot of skill, often in order to solve a problem dence
17 A wolf in sheep's clot hing
To describe someone as a wolf in sheep's clothing means that although they look harmless, they are really very dangerous
18 To take the bull by the horns
Không sợ khó khăn nguy hiểm
To grapple with a difficulty instead of avoiding it
A woman who is domineering and belligerent
20 Love me, love my dog
Yêu nhau yêu cả đường đi
This expression means that if someone loves you, they must love everything about you, including everyone and everything that you love
21 To have butterflies in your stomach
Rất căng thẳng về chuyện gì
The feeling of anxiousness/nervous ness you get
22 To have ants in one's pants
Bồn chồn, lòng nóng như lửa đốt
People who have ants in their pants are very restless or excited about something
Như ma đuổi If something moves like a bat out of hell, it moves very quickly
Nóng tính Someone is very irritable and bad- tempered
25 To break the back of the beast
Someone succeeds in overcoming a major difficulty
Trăn trở về điều gì
Someone who has a bee in their bonnet has an idea which constantly occupies their thoughts
27 Kill Một mũi tên You succeed in Absolute Literal
46 two birds wit h one stone trúng hai con chim doing two things at the same time
Khiến ai nổi điên lên
To make someone very angry or upset
29 A cat in gloves catches no mice
Cận thận dè dặt khó làm nên chuyện
If you are too careful and polite, you may not obtain what you want
30 A fat cat Người giàu có
To refer to a rich and powerful person that you disapprove of the way they use their money or power
Two people who fight or argue like cat and dog frequently have violent arguments, even though they are fond of each other
A dog and pony show is a marketing event or presentation which has plenty of
47 style but not much content
33 Every dog ha s its day
Ai cũng sẽ có thời của họ
Everyone can be successful at something at some time in their life
Chậm như rùa Someone have been doing it for a very long time
35 Take to something like a duck to water
You do it naturally and easily, without fear or hesitation
Không thoải mái, mất tự tin
You feel uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings
37 Big fish in a small pond
An important or highly-ranked person in a small group or organization
Khôn như cáo Someone is cunning and clever at getting what they want, especially by
39 Frog in one's throat Đau họng A person has difficulty in speaking clearly because they have a cough or a sore throat
40 Even a blind squirrel can find a nut once in a while
Sometimes people can be correct just by being lucky
41 Even the worm has turned
Con giun xéo mãi cũng quằn
When a usually meek person or group of people becomes angry
42 To open a can of worms
Gặp nhiều khó khăn, vất vả khi làm việc gì
To do something that exposes a very difficult issue or set of problems
43 A cash cow Nguồn thu chính
A product or service which is a regular source of income for a company
44 All Vịt hóa thiên Someone constantly Partial Functional
49 his geese are swans nga exaggerates the importance or the qualities of somebody or something
45 To have goose pi mples
Nổi da gà You are cold or so afraid that your skin is temporarily raised into little lumps
46 To back/bet on the wrong horse
Trao niềm tin nhầm người
You support the wrong person
Từ chính miệng người trong cuộc
The information is given to you by someone who is directly involved
A middle-aged woman who tries to look younger by dressing in clothes designed for younger people
49 Lion's share Phần cỡ lớn The largest portion, or the best part
50 To walk into Đi vào hang You find yourself in Absolute Literal
(Tình huống khó khăn khi gặp phải nhiều người không thân thiện) a difficult situation in which you have to face unfriendly or aggressive people
Trò lừa bịp An activity which is organized in a deceitful or dishonest way
Im như thóc To make no noise at all
53 Night owl Cú đêm Someone who is lively and active at night and goes to bed very late
54 Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered
You should be satisfied when you have enough; if you are too greedy, like a hog, you risk losing everything
55 Black sheep Người lạc loài
The one who behaves very
51 differently or badly, and is considered disreputable by the other members of the family dence
Mèo khóc chuột giả từ bi
Someone who pretends to be your friend while actually betraying you
Kẻ tiểu nhân Someone is bad, dishonest or have very low moral standards
58 Paper tiger Thùng rỗng kêu to
A person, organization or country that is less powerful or threatening than they appear to be
59 Pigs might fly Heo nái biết leo cây
The disbelief, or the idea that miracles might happen but are extremely unlikely
60 Other fish in the sea
Núi này cao có núi khác
There are many people just as good