Translation Loss and Gain in the Translation of Nias Cultural Jewelry Terms into English   : Penelitian

Afore Tahir Harefa; Theresia Trines Anjelin Zai; Elnardus Fransiskus Jafrinus Namo; Yofita Gulo

doi:10.31004/jerkin.v4i3.5450

Authors

Afore Tahir Harefa Universitas Nias
Theresia Trines Anjelin Zai Universitas Nias
Elnardus Fransiskus Jafrinus Namo Universitas Nias
Yofita Gulo Universitas Nias

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31004/jerkin.v4i3.5450

Keywords:

Translation Loss, Translation Gain, Nias Cultural Jewelry, Cross-Cultural Translation

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate translation loss and gain in the translation of Nias cultural jewelry terms into Indonesian and English. A qualitative research design was employed, using museum books and catalogues from Museum Pusaka Nias as data sources. Data were analyzed through descriptive and comparative qualitative methods to identify instances of loss and gain in both target languages. The results revealed nine instances of gain, mostly involving the addition of descriptive words such as "golden," "silver," "ivory," or "battle" to clarify meaning for non-Nias readers. Loss occurred in five cases, primarily due to omissions of gender, cultural specificity, or symbolic elements, such as the absence of the word "durian" in English translations. The study highlights the challenges of cross-linguistic and cross-cultural translation and emphasizes the importance of balancing accessibility and cultural fidelity in translating heritage terms

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