Abstract:
This study was conducted to explore strategies in bridging cross-cultural gaps through interpreting a Kirundi traditional marriage speech into English. The research relies on Dynamic Equivalence and Critical Discourse Analysis to identify culture-bound aspects which are found in Burundian traditional speeches of marriages. It also uses qualitative methods to delve deeper into the problem of cross-cultural gaps. To analyze the collected data, Fairclough‘s Critical Discourse Analysis approach was used together with Functional equivalence by Newmark and Nida and produced these findings: special attention is due when dealing with culturally specific terms, different linguistic spatial referents, humor translation, and transfer of proper names across cultures. The study emphasized the fact that these elements are rooted within Burundian Culture and prove challenging when interpreted into English as they contain meanings that defy simple translations. Secondly, the research shows that cultural gaps may arise while working within diverse cultures thus resulting to miscommunication or loss of meaning if not well handled. For example, humour is often culture-specific, thus making it difficult to be accurately rendered into another language. In the same way, transference of proper names between cultures can be difficult since these names are usually rich in cultural significance that might not be understood by those outside the culture at first glance. To come up with possible remedies in bridging cultural gaps in Burundian traditional marriage speeches, the study found three effective strategies. These involve finding equivalents in the target language and also paraphrasing— additionally providing an explanation. For instance, when faced with culturally specific terms without direct English equivalence, interpreters would thus ensure that the audience gets what is meant through paraphrasing or more information context.
