A Study on the C-E Translation of Foshan Kung Fu’s Culture Specific Items

Abstract

This research is conducted within the scope of Chinese culture’s “going global”. The discussion mainly revolves around the following issues: how to standardize the English translation of Foshan Kung Fu Culture Specific Items, how to tell Chinese stories well, and how to promote a deeper understanding of Foshan Kung Fu culture among overseas audiences. Two main conclusions are drawn from the research: (1) Foshan Kung Fu Culture Specific Items have translatability; (2) the translation of Foshan Kung Fu Culture Specific Items into English is a process of “finding translations”. For those who have not found standardized Culture Specific Items in English translation, we suggest using Cantonese or Hanyu Pinyin plus English interpretation, which can better solve the problem of different translations of terms. Choosing this translation method not only preserves heterogeneity, but also showcases the cultural connotations behind Foshan Kung Fu. The discussion on the standardization of English translation of exclusive items in Foshan Kung Fu culture can promote deep and authentic cultural exchange. Extensions to other bodies of translation may yield similar results.