The Translation of Complaint Speech Act in Business Communication: A Cultural Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to examine the translation strategies used for translating Saudi complaints in business communication, with a focus on the influence of Saudi cultural norms. The research methodology employed in this study includes a comprehensive analysis of complaint speech acts in Saudi culture, as well as a comparison of translation strategies used in different cultural contexts. The Findings demonstrate that while most translations were adequate, inaccuracies arose from a lack of equivalent terms in English. The literal translation was common but ineffective in conveying Arabic nuances accurately. Borrowing was prevalent for maintaining meaning. Limited use of transposition, calque, adaptation, modulation, and expansion strategies hindered the accurate conveyance of complaints. The study highlights challenges in translating Saudi complaints due to cultural nuances and advocates for a nuanced approach to enhance accuracy and effectiveness in cross-cultural translation.