CHALLENGES IN TRANSLATING ENGLISH PROVERBS INTO UZBEK

Abstract

This article explores the multifaceted challenges during the process of translating English proverbs into Uzbek. These challenges mainly in linguistic, cultural, semantic, and stylistic dimensions, each of which demands careful consideration by translators. Proverbs, as crystallized forms of collective wisdom, embody cultural identity and metaphorical imagery that often resist straightforward transfer. The study analyzes cases where literal translation fails, where functional equivalents exist in the target language, and where explanatory translation becomes necessary. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from translation studies—including Nida’s concept of equivalence, Newmark’s semantic and communicative translation, and Venuti’s localization strategies—the paper underscores the need for context-sensitive and culturally informed translation practices. Comparative examples of English and Uzbek proverbs illustrate the strategies available to translators and highlight the importance of preserving both meaning and aesthetic value. The findings suggest that effective proverb translation requires not only linguistic competence but also cultural sensitivity, interpretive flexibility, and literary awareness.