LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL BARRIERS IN TRANSLATING ENGLISH IDIOMS INTO UZBEK
Abstract
This article examines the linguistic and cultural barriers that arise when translating idioms from English into Uzbek. Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be understood by translating individual words directly. Because idioms are deeply rooted in the culture, history, and everyday life of a nation, they often create serious difficulties for translators. The study focuses on how differences in worldview, traditions, and cultural associations between English-speaking and Uzbek-speaking communities affect the process of achieving equivalence in translation.
The article also discusses common translation strategies used to overcome these barriers, such as using functional equivalents, paraphrasing, or replacing an idiom with a culturally appropriate expression in the target language. Through comparative examples, the research shows that full equivalence is not always possible, and translators must balance accuracy, meaning, and cultural acceptability. The findings highlight the importance of cultural competence and linguistic awareness in producing high-quality and natural translations of idiomatic expressions.
Keywords
Idioms, translation equivalence, linguistic barriers, cultural barriers, English – Uzbek translation, intercultural communication.
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