Competence in translating specialist texts – an analysis of selected problems in popular science texts

Abstract

Specialized translation is a dynamically developing area and a popular subject of scholarly reflection. Together with the growing variety of specialist languages, there is also an observable increasing demand for translations of diverse types of text, including popular science publications. The article is devoted to this genre, which is relatively less frequently discussed than classical areas such as medical or technical translation. An attempt is made to establish the position and distinctive features of popular science texts in the context of existing typologies. Translation problems typical of the genre are addressed from the perspective of translation competence and training. Major types of skills required from a translator of popular science texts are presented in relation to existing models of competence. The aim of the study discussed in the empirical part of the paper is to diagnose what types of problems are the most challenging for trainee translators and what textual tendencies are the most prominent in their translations from English into Polish. The analysis of the data gathered focuses on types of solutions adopted by the students in their renditions of terminology and proper names. The results of the study demonstrate a strong tendency to use established Polish equivalents for commonly known terms, frequently together with borrowing the original one. They were less consistent in translating items closely intertwined with the source culture. Major mistakes, including stylistic ones, occurred in this context, which confirms a need to put more emphasis on the differences in textual conventions in regard to style and register. The findings are meant to facilitate the training process.