CHALLENGES OF INTERPRETING CULTURE-CPECIFIC WORDS IN ENGLISH TEXTBOOKS

Аннотация

Abstract This thesis explores the challenges of interpreting culture-specific words (CSWs) in English textbooks, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness in translation. It highlights the concept of lexical gaps and the absence of direct equivalents in the target language. Drawing on Peter Newmark’s theory and especially his use of componential analysis (CA), the research demonstrates how this method can break down complex cultural terms into translatable elements. Examples such as “quaint,” “kvass,” and “liberalism” show how CA helps clarify meaning and preserve cultural nuance. The study concludes that while complete equivalence is often unattainable, componential analysis provides a practical approach for translators striving to convey both meaning and cultural context.