REPRESENTATION OF LEXIS IN LITERARY TRANSLATION: A FUNCTIONALIST ANALYSIS FROM UZBEK TO ENGLISH

Abstract

 This study examines the intricate dynamics of lexis in literary translation from Uzbek into English, focusing on the challenges and strategies employed to preserve cultural nuances. Grounded in a functionalist translation studies framework, the research investigates lexical shifts in contemporary prose fiction texts produced between 1990 and 2020 by analyzing a representative Uzbek corpus alongside corresponding English translations. The analysis reveals that translators frequently encounter difficulties in balancing fidelity to source structures with adaptation to target linguistic norms, particularly when dealing with culturally specific lexical items. By integrating insights from recent scholarly literature, the paper situates lexical adaptation within evolving debates on cultural translation and interlingual equivalence.Methodologically, a comparative qualitative analysis of selected textual examples is combined with theoretical reflections to elucidate the interplay between contextual semantics and lexical choice. Findings contribute to a more refined understanding of lexis in literary translation and highlight effective translation strategies that align source authenticity with target readability. This study emphasizes the importance of strategic lexical decision-making as a vital component of cultural translation and offers practical implications for translators between Uzbek and English. Ultimately, the analysis calls for an integrated approach that harmonizes source textual richness with clarity of contemporary English literature.

Keywords: 

 This study examines the intricate dynamics of lexis in literary translation from Uzbek into English, focusing on the challenges and strategies employed to preserve cultural nuances. Grounded in a functionalist translation studies framework, the research investigates lexical shifts in contemporary prose fiction texts produced between 1990 and 2020 by analyzing a representative Uzbek corpus alongside corresponding English translations. The analysis reveals that translators frequently encounter difficulties in balancing fidelity to source structures with adaptation to target linguistic norms, particularly when dealing with culturally specific lexical items. By integrating insights from recent scholarly literature, the paper situates lexical adaptation within evolving debates on cultural translation and interlingual equivalence.Methodologically, a comparative qualitative analysis of selected textual examples is combined with theoretical reflections to elucidate the interplay between contextual semantics and lexical choice. Findings contribute to a more refined understanding of lexis in literary translation and highlight effective translation strategies that align source authenticity with target readability. This study emphasizes the importance of strategic lexical decision-making as a vital component of cultural translation and offers practical implications for translators between Uzbek and English. Ultimately, the analysis calls for an integrated approach that harmonizes source textual richness with clarity of contemporary English literature.