The use of idioms in English songs and their translation into Ukrainian

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The use of idioms in English songs and their translation into Ukrainian

Maryana Tomenchuk

PhD in Philology, Associate Professor of the Department of Applied Linguistics, Uzhhorod National University, Uzhhorod, Ukraine

Stefaniia Turianytsia

Master Graduate Student of the Department of Applied Linguistics, Uzhhorod National University, Uzhhorod, Ukraine

Abstract

This article describes the analysis of the intricate world of idiomatic expressions within the lyrical realm of English songs, delving into the challenges and creative strategies involved in translating these linguistic phenomena into Ukrainian. The dynamic nature of language, particularly in the realm of music, provides an exciting backdrop for examining how idioms are used, adapted, and retained in translation. idiomatic expressions english songs

Moreover, it commences with an exploration of the significance of idiomatic expressions in song lyrics, unraveling their role in conveying emotions, cultural context, and the idiosyncrasies of the English language. Drawing on a diverse selection of English songs across various genres, we examine how these linguistic features serve as both communicative tools and poetic devices, adding depth and authenticity to the lyrical content.

In the process of translation into Ukrainian, linguists and translators encounter a multifaceted challenge. The second phase of this article explains the complexities of transferring idioms from English to Ukrainian while preserving the essence and cultural nuances of the original songs. I analyze the strategies used in handling this linguistic transformation, considering the dynamic nature of both languages and the importance of maintaining the emotional impact and creative flair of the source material.

A critical aspect of the work is the examination of how Ukrainian equivalents are chosen to preserve the intended meaning, emotonal tone, and cultural resonance in the target language. It also investigates whether the translation process may entail the creation of new idiomatic expressions that resonate with Ukrainian audiences while staying true to the source material.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and solutions in translating idiomatic expressions in English songs into Ukrainian, a qualitative and quantitative analysis is conducted, including case studies and interviews with professional translators, linguists, and music enthusiasts. This multifaceted approach enables us to draw conclusions on the complexities and artistry of translating not only the lyrics but also the cultural context and emotional depth embedded in English songs.

Keywords: idiom, culture, peculiarity, expression, analysis, song.

The problem statement: English songs are not only melodious but also a treasure trove of idioms. These linguistic elements are not just lyrical embellishments; they provide a glimpse into the culture and emotion of the songs. This article delves into the complexities of translating these idioms into Ukrainian, shedding light on the techniques used to capture the essence of the source text.

Review of recent publication. The absence of research results in accurately interpreting the idioms in English songs keeps the matter under discussion hot. In their works, both western scientists such as F. Bargiela-Chiappini [1], C. Cacciari and P. Tabossi [2], N. Chomsky [3], Ch. Fernando [4], S. Granger and F. Meunier [5], A. Makkai [6] as well as eastern scholars among whom are N.N. Amosova [7], and O. O. Selivanova [8] paid attention to this issue.

The purpose of the study is to analyze the translations of the English songs with the idiomatic expressions on the material of the English song discourse.

During the research songs like "Imagine" by John Lennon "Born in the U.S.A." by Bruce Springsteen, "Brown Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison, "With a Little Help from My Friends" by The Beatles, "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers, "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King, "Count on Me" by Bruno Mars, "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin, "Let It Be" by The Beatles, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" by Elton John and "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele were investigated.

Each song from the list is filled with different sayings and idioms, giving the text sweetness and deep meaning.

Results and Discussions. Language is a rich tapestry woven with words, phrases, and expressions, each contributing to its beauty and complexity. Within this intricate web of communication, idiomatic expressions stand out as vibrant threads that add color, depth, and cultural richness to the linguistic fabric. Idioms are more than just combinations of words; they are windows into the heart of a language and the culture it represents. In this work, I will take a closer look at idiomatic expressions, exploring what they are, why they matter, and how they shape our everyday communication.

Because idiomatic terms are employed in practically every aspect of modem life, scientists are always interested in studying this phenomena. They can be found in the original writings of both modern and classic authors, in the media, in business communications, and in ordinary speech.

At their core, idiomatic expressions are groups of words with meanings that cannot be deduced from the meanings of their individual parts [2,p.12]. In other words, the meaning of an idiom is often unrelated to the literal meanings of the words it contains. For instance, the English idiom "kick the bucket" does not involve any actual kicking or buckets but rather means "to die." Idioms are peculiar to each language, and their meanings are understood through cultural familiarity and common usage [9].

High idiomatic usage in the language of emotion itself leads to a variety of metonymical and metaphorical terms. If language is understood as a language that can be symbolic, that can define and even create emotional experiences for us, rather than as a set of literal words that classify and refer to an already-existing emotional reality, then a whole new world of emotional feelings may open up for us. According to Kovecses, a Hungarian linguist, linked concepts, cultural models, metonymies, and metaphors make up numerous components of emotion concepts. [10, p. 32]

Numerous songs feature idiomatic expressions, adding depth and flavor to their lyrics. Here are some examples:

Led Zeppelin - "Whole Lotta Love": "You need coolin', baby, I'm not foolin' - " Тобі потрібно охолонути, крихітко, я не жартую". The idiom "I'm not foolin'" conveys sincerity and intensifies the song's passion. Here the translator decided to convey the meaning of the idiom by changing the informal speech into the formal one.

The Beatles - "Let It Be": "When the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me. Shine until tomorrow, let it be." - "Коли ніч хмарна, все ще є світло, яке світить мені. Світи до завтра, хай буде" The idiom "let it be" carries a message of acceptance and resilience. There is one more variant of the translation - "відпусти". In both options we observe the reduction of the number of words.

Elton John - "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me": "I can't light no more of your darkness." - "Я більше не можу запалювати твою темряву". The idiom "light one's darkness" adds metaphorical depth to the song's theme of struggle and redemption. In this case the translator saved the direct meaning of the idiom and conveyed its sense to the listeners.

Adele - "Rolling in the Deep": "We could have had it all, rolling in the deep." - "Ми б могли мати все, тепер котимося в глибину". The idiom "rolling in the deep" creates an evocative image of being engulfed by emotions.

Idioms are linguistic treasures that songwriters skillfully weave into their lyrics to enhance their emotional impact. They bring songs to life by evoking emotions, creating imagery, connecting with culture, and appealing to universal human experiences. Idiomatic expressions in song lyrics bridge the gap between language and music, making the songs we cherish even more resonant and memorable [11, 103]. So, the next time you listen to your favorite song, pay attention to the idiomatic expressions that enrich its lyrical tapestry--you'll discover a world of emotions waiting to be explored.

While analyzing several songs, I've highlighted the most memorable for me, so let me introduce them below.

And the first place takes "Imagine" by John Lennon John Lennon's iconic song "Imagine" is a poignant example of how idiomatic expressions can convey profound messages. The idiomatic expression "living life in peace" - "жити в мирі" encapsulates the universal desire for a world without conflict. In this context, the phrase "imagine all the people" becomes a powerful call to envision a harmonious world, free from strife. The idiomatic use of "imagine" paints a vivid picture of a utopian society where unity and peace prevail.

Cultural and Emotional Depth is quiet interesting here. The song's use of idiomatic expressions transcends cultural boundaries. The idea of peace is a universally cherished concept, making it relatable to people from diverse cultural backgrounds [12, 103]. By incorporating idioms related to peace, John Lennon tapped into a deep well of collective human emotions, evoking feelings of hope, unity, and a shared vision for a better world. "Imagine" has become an anthem for peace, demonstrating how idiomatic expressions can elevate a song to cultural and emotional significance.

The following song id "Born in the U.S.A." by Bruce Springsteen Bruce Springsteen's "Born in the U.S.A." employs the idiom "born in the U.S.A." - "Народжений в США" as a central motif. While the song's title and refrain may seem straightforward, they carry layers of cultural and emotional depth. The idiom "born in the U.S.A." refers to someone's nationality but is used here to convey a complex narrative.

The song tells the story of a Vietnam War veteran who returns to a country that has not fully embraced or understood the sacrifices made by its soldiers. The use of the idiom "born in the U.S.A." takes on a poignant meaning, symbolizing both pride in one's country and the challenges faced by those who served in the war. Springsteen's lyrics underscore the struggles of the working class in America and the complexities of patriotism. The song's cultural and emotional depth lies in its ability to juxtapose the celebratory refrain with the harsh realities faced by its characters, making it a powerful commentary on the American experience.

The third place takes the song "Brown Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison "Hey, where did we go?" - "Хей, де ми опинились?": "Hey" is a casual greeting, and "where did we go" is an informal way of asking what happened or where things went.

"Skippin' and a-jumpin'" - "стрибки й підскоки" : "Skippin'" and "a- jumpin'" are informal words for moving quickly and energetically.

While "Brown Eyed Girl" may have some informal language, it is generally considered a polite and gentle song that has stood the test of time as a classic. The slang used here contributes to the song's charm and appeal, making it relatable and enjoyable for listeners of all ages.

The next song would be familiar to The Beatles lovers: "With a Little Help from My Friends" by The Beatles "What would you think if I sang out of tune?" - "Що б ви подумали, якби я співав не в такт?" : This line uses informal language to ask for an opinion, making it sound friendly and approachable.

"Could it be anybody?" - "Це може бути хто завгодно?" : "Could it be" is a more casual way of asking if someone can help.

"Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends" - "О, я справляюся з допомогою моїх друзів" : The phrase "get by" means to manage or cope, and "friends" is a warm and informal term for companions.

"Do you need anybody?" - "Тобі хтось потрібен?": Again, this line uses "need anybody" in a more informal way.

"Would you believe in a love at first sight?" - " Ти б повірив в кохання з першого погляду?": Asking "would you believe" adds a personal and conversational touch to the question about love.

This song is known for its friendly and uplifting message, and the slang used in the lyrics contributes to its approachable and relatable quality. The use of informal language makes it feel like a conversation between friends, emphasizing the importance of companionship and support.

The Song "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers almost made me cry.

"Sometimes in our lives, we all have pain" - "Іноді в нашому житті ми всі відчуваємо біль": Using "we all have pain" makes the lyrics relatable and empathetic.

"For it won't be long till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on" - "Бо незабаром мені знадобиться хтось, на кого я зможу спертися" : "Gonna" is a colloquial contraction of "going to," and "lean on" is an idiomatic expression for seeking support.

"If there is a load you have to bear that you can't carry" - "Якщо на вас лежить тягар, який ви не можете нести": "Can't carry" is a straightforward way of expressing the inability to handle something.

"Please swallow your pride" - " Будь ласка, проковтни свою гордість": "Swallow your pride" is an idiom that means to humble oneself.

"Call me (call me) if you need a friend" - "Дзвони, якщо буде потрібен друг": Using "call me" is a friendly and informal way of offering support.

"Lean on Me" is an iconic song by Bill Withers that emphasizes the importance of support and friendship during difficult times. The lyrics feature informal language and idiomatic expressions to convey a message of empathy and solidarity. Phrases like "gonna need somebody to lean on" and "swallow your pride" make the song relatable and emotionally resonant. It's a timeless anthem of friendship and assistance.

Language is a reflection of culture, and within the realm of language, idiomatic expressions and slang hold a special place. Idioms are the linguistic gems that add richness and flavor to a language, often carrying deep cultural and emotional nuances. When it comes to translating these elements from one language to another, however, a complex web of challenges and potential losses emerges. [13, p.48].

Idioms are expressions whose meanings cannot be derived from the individual words that compose them. Instead, their meanings are culturally and linguistically determined. For example, the English idiom "kick the bucket" means to die, but its literal interpretation would not convey this meaning.

One of the primary challenges in translating idioms is finding an equivalent expression in the target language that captures the intended meaning while maintaining cultural relevance. Often, a direct translation falls short, leaving the essence of the idiom lost in translation.

When idioms are mistranslated, they not only lose their original meaning but may also lead to confusion or, worse, miscommunication. This is particularly problematic when dealing with sensitive or emotional topics.

Ensuring that the target audience comprehends the intended meaning without confusion or distortion is a formidable challenge. A poorly translated idiom can inadvertently offend or mislead readers or listeners.

Idioms often carry deep cultural and historical significance. They can be tightly woven into the fabric of a society, reflecting its values, beliefs, and collective experiences [13, p.72].

Translators must not only find linguistic equivalents but also consider the cultural context. Simply substituting words may overlook the cultural connotations and emotional undertones present in the source language.

Emotions are intricately tied to language. Idioms can convey humor, sadness, nostalgia, or irony with precision. Translating these emotional nuances is essential for retaining the impact of the original text.

Preserving the emotional depth of idioms and slang is a multifaceted task. A successful translation must evoke the same emotional response in the target audience as the original did in its readers or listeners.

Translating idioms is undoubtedly a formidable task. It requires more than linguistic proficiency; it demands cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and an appreciation for the emotional nuances embedded in these expressions. When done effectively, such translations bridge language barriers while preserving the rich cultural and emotional tapestry that idioms and slang contribute to our shared human experience.

Language is not just a means of communication; it's a reflection of culture, emotions, and expressions. Idiomatic expressions, in particular, play a significant role in conveying complex emotions and cultural nuances. However, when it comes to translating these idioms into another language, especially one as distinct as Ukrainian, preserving the original emotional impact can be a formidable challenge.

Idioms are phrases whose meanings cannot be deduced from the individual words that comprise them. They often carry deep emotional connotations and cultural significance. For example, the English idiom "butterflies in my stomach" vividly describes the feeling of nervousness or excitement. Translating such idioms while retaining their emotional punch is akin to walking a linguistic tightrope [10, p.67].

One of the primary challenges in translating idiomatic expressions is ensuring that the cultural and emotional nuances of the source language are accurately conveyed. Idioms are deeply rooted in the culture that produces them, and transplanting them directly into another linguistic and cultural context can sometimes result in a loss of their intended impact [10, p.72].

Translators face the intricate task of not just finding equivalent idiomatic expressions in the target language but also considering their emotional weight and cultural resonance. This often involves a delicate balancing act between maintaining the original sentiment and adapting it to fit the cultural norms of the target audience [10, p.76].

Languages can vary significantly in the idioms they possess and the emotions they can convey. What might be a common idiom expressing joy in one language might have no equivalent in another. This divergence in linguistic capabilities adds an extra layer of complexity to the translation process [10, p.80].

Ukrainian, like any language, has its own set of idioms and expressions. While some idioms may closely match their English counterparts, others may require creative adaptation to preserve the intended sentiment. Additionally, the emotional tone of idioms can vary widely between cultures, making it challenging to find the perfect linguistic fit [10, p.83].

Translating idiomatic expressions while maintaining their emotional impact is a delicate art. It requires not only linguistic proficiency but also a deep understanding of the cultural and emotional context in which these idioms exist. In the case of Ukrainian translation, the task becomes even more complex due to the unique cultural and linguistic characteristics of the language. However, skilled translators continue to take on this challenge, striving to ensure that the emotional essence of idioms remains intact, even when crossing linguistic and cultural borders.

Conclusions

We can sum up that translating idioms in English songs into Ukrainian is a task that requires a delicate balance between linguistic accuracy and the preservation of cultural and emotional nuances. Throughout this exploration of challenges and strategies, we have come to appreciate the importance of maintaining these subtleties in song translations.

Adapting idiomatic content to suit the cultural context of the target audience is crucial. This involves finding expressions that resonate with Ukrainian listeners while staying faithful to the song's emotional core.

Exploring the realm of idioms in English songs and their translation into Ukrainian reveals the intricate dance between language, culture, and music. I have delved into the importance of accurate translation, not only for conveying the literal meaning but also for preserving the cultural nuances and emotional resonance embedded in these linguistic expressions.

Throughout this exploration, I emphasized the role of idioms in creating a poetic and rhythmic tapestry within songs, transcending linguistic boundaries to connect with diverse audiences. The act of translating idioms becomes a bridge that fosters cross-cultural understanding, allowing listeners to appreciate the artistry and emotions behind the lyrics.

My discussion touched upon the necessity of careful translation to avoid misinterpretations and to ensure that the essence of the idioms remains intact. The global appeal of music hinges on this meticulous translation, as it enables songs to resonate with audiences worldwide.

As we navigate the complex interplay between languages, it is evident that idioms serve as cultural ambassadors, carrying with them the rich tapestry of their origin. Translating them effectively is not merely a linguistic task but a journey into the heart of cultural exchange, enriching the global music landscape.

Translators should be granted creative freedom to ensure that the translation feels authentic and natural in the target language. This freedom allows them to convey emotions effectively. Preserving cultural and linguistic nuances in song translations is paramount. It ensures that the audience can connect with the music on a deeper level. Songs are not just linguistic constructs; they are vessels of emotions, memories, and cultural references.

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