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Expressing time through space
Embodying conceptual metaphors in an L1 vs. an L2 signed language
- Source: Translation and Interpreting Studies. The Journal of the American Translation and Interpreting Studies Association, Volume 13, Issue 1, Jan 2018, p. 6 - 26
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- 02 Mar 2018
Abstract
This study describes how temporal discourse content is expressed in signing space in Swedish Sign Language (SSL) and identifies and describes the differences between L1- and L2-interpreters’ signed target language output. The study found that L1-interpreters systematically use complex simultaneous combinations of lexical signs and various hand, arm and body movements on and along time lines. The L2-interpreters stand more still, and their use of body movements differs from that of the L1-interpreters. Though the L2-interpreters in the study often succeed in showing that two or more entities/events are separate, they are less successful in showing the more specific, temporal and/or other, relationship(s) between them. This crucial aspect of idiomatic signed language production, therefore, should be included in interpreter training to improve the quality of interpreted target language output.