Problems of the Translation of directive speech acts from German to Bulgarian Cover Image

Probleme der Übersetzung direktiver Sprechakte aus dem Deutschen ins Bulgarische
Problems of the Translation of directive speech acts from German to Bulgarian

Author(s): Simeon Kaynakchiev
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Philology, Translation Studies
Published by: Софийски университет »Св. Климент Охридски«
Keywords: Speech act; Instructions; Imperative; Infinitive

Summary/Abstract: Manuals for technical devices can be found in almost every household. They provide instructions for the assembly, use, maintenance and disposal of technical products and are an essential prerequisite for consumer safety. The aim of this article is to exam- ine the means of expressing instructions in the German language and their translation into Bulgarian. Based on Searle’s theory of speech acts, the methods of expressing directive speech acts in German and Bulgarian are analyzed. Comparative analysis of translations of German imperative infinitive constructions to Bulgarian shows that the imperative mood is the preferred equivalent construction in Bulgarian. Furthermore, the analysis demonstrates possible problematic interpretation of German infinitive constructions as descriptive in- stead of instructive sentences. Finally, strategies to prevent misinterpretations of imperative infinitive constructions are presented.

  • Issue Year: 2023
  • Issue No: 44
  • Page Range: 64-73
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: German
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