Lexical and Textual Translation Problems Encountered by Palestinian Professional Diploma Students at the Islamic University of Gaza

Abstract

This study investigates, analyses and classifies lexical and textual translation problems encountered by professional diploma students at the Islamic University of Gaza (IUG). A translation test consisting of a politically argumentative text was administered to 13 students studying for a professional diploma in translation at IUG. The analysis of translations was based on the linguistic judgments of the researcher’s assessment and the model translation provided by a professional translator. The results showed that professional diploma students committed lexical and textual problems. Lexical problems include wrong word choice or wrong lexis and collocation, while textual problems include non-parallel structures, omissions, lexical repetition, redundant pronouns, and incongruent information. The study ended with recommendations and suggestions for further research.