The simile and metaphor in translation of Yemeni spoken Arabic common names of animals and supernatural creatures into English: A socio-pragmatic approach

Abstract

This study examines the sociopragmatics of animal and supernatural creatures’ names in Yemeni Arabic (YA) and their translation into English. The study aims to identify the most effective English translations of these metaphors by sending a questionnaire to 43 native English speakers (NESs), focusing on Target Language metaphors and similes (TL) and using Abdul-Raof’s (2006) framework to classify similes. The findings indicate that YA dialects use animal and supernatural creatures’ names to convey meanings, feelings, and intents, while NESs preferred to use detailed similes that incorporate both feature and element. Unlike YA, which accepts all three types of metaphor and simile to address humans using animal and supernatural creatures’ names, most NESs rejected the metaphor, which lacks simile. These findings suggest that animal and supernatural creature names are translated differently in the two languages and cultures, highlighting potential differences in cultural aspects. Generally, this study contributes to our understanding of the sociopragmatics of language use in different cultures and their impact on cross-cultural communication. The findings suggest the need for further research into the translation of animal and supernatural creatures’ names in different languages and cultures.

Keywords:

• Animal Names
• figurative Language
• metaphor
• simile
• supernatural Creatures
• translation
• Yemeni Arabic

PUBLIC INTEREST STATEMENT

This study uses the sociopragmatic approach to investigate how cultural norms, linguistic features, and sociocultural contexts impact the use and translation of metaphors and similes in different languages. The research focuses on animal and supernatural creature names in Yemeni Arabic and their translation into English, using Abdul-Raof’s framework to classify similes. By sending a questionnaire to 43 native English speakers, the study compares their responses with the linguistic and cultural norms of Yemeni Arabic. The findings highlight the importance of considering sociocultural factors when translating metaphors and similes, particularly those related to animal and supernatural creature names. This research contributes to cross-cultural communication and promotes cultural awareness and understanding between different linguistic and cultural communities.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ali Mohammed Saleh Al-Hamzi

Ali Mohammed Saleh Al-Hamzi is a distinguished scholar with a wealth of experience in teaching and research. He has made significant contributions to the field of linguistics, particularly in the areas of translation, critical discourse analysis, sociolinguistics, pragmatics, and applied linguistics. His ongoing commitment to expanding his knowledge and exploring new avenues of inquiry makes him a valuable asset to the academic community.