Research on Public Signs and the Importance of this Research to C-E Translation

【Abstract】 There is increasing recognition of the importance and usefulness of doing research in c-e translation of public signs. As bilingual signs are increasingly popular, considerable attention should be paid to the study of C-E translation of public signs. It is theoretically and practically urgent to make a further study and research on public signs systematically.

【Key Words】 public signs C-E translation of public signs common errors

Introduction

Many scholars have done some significant work in the research of the C-E translation of public signs. Although so many scholars have been making efforts in this research field, they do not give an all-round introduction to public signs in Chinese. It is not sufficient to simply focus on one aspect and analyze few examples. Furthermore, most scholars are mainly engaged in linguistic analysis or pragmatic translations. Cultural influences and characteristics of public signs, which are the important elements in this research field, have been neglected.

As bilingual signs are increasingly popular and practical, considerable attention should be paid to the study of the classification, social application and different functions of public signs.

1. Research on public signs

International Committee of the Graphical Symbols defines signs as anything from a simplest way finding or information “marker” to the technically sophisticated communication of a message. According to Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English (1993:991), it is defined as a short phrase expressing a usual political or advertising message. In academic world, many Chinese scholars have made great contribution to the definition of public signs although China has comparatively a short history in this research field. Many scholars are making further effort to standardize the C-E translation of public signs.

2. Classification of public signs

According to the social application of C-E translation of public signs, they can be divided into four types.

2.1 Traffic public signs

Traffic public signs are popularly used in cities, which play an important role in society. Traffic public signs are used to achieve the function of directing by providing foreigners traffic information. Traffic public signs offer instructive information, such as a speed limit, a bend in the road, etc, which presents the information of guiding service to indicate people to do or not to do something; many dynamic expressions are used in the type of public signs to give direction, instruction, restriction and prohibition. They are often composed of verbs and gerunds, such as BUSES ONLY.