The Implication of Culture on Translation Theory and Practice By Sugeng Hariyanto, Perum. Joyo Asri Blok X/157, RT 02 - RW 08, State Polytechnic, Malang, Indonesia 65144 (sg_hariyanto@yahoo.co.id) Note: This article was first published in 1996 in a Journal named “Bistek” published by State Polytechnic of Malang, Indonesia, and then republished online with permission by Translation Directory Journal (http://www.translationdirectory.com/article634.htm) and then republished again by the writer on resources.transbahasa.com. This article has been referred extensively around the world in the writing on translation and culture. ABSTRACT Language is an expression of culture and individuality of its speakers. It influences the way the speakers perceive the world. This principle has a far-reaching implication fro translation. If language influences thought and culture, it means that ultimate translation is impossible. The opposite point of view, however, gives another perspective. Humboldt’s "inner" and "outer" forms in language and Chomsky’s "deep" and "surface" structures imply that ultimate translation is anyhow possible. In practice, however, the possibility depends on the purpose and how deep the source text is embedded in the culture. The more source-text-oriented a translation is, the more difficult it is to do. Similarly, the deeper a text is embedded in its culture, the more difficult it is to work on. Related to translation, culture manifests in two ways. First, the concept or reference of the vocabulary items is somehow specific for the given culture. Second, the concept or reference is actually general but expressed in a way specific to the source language culture. In practice, however, it is suggested that a translator should take into account the purpose of the translation in translating the culturally-bound words or expressions. The translation procedures discussed should also be considered. Key words: culture, language universals, translation purpose, translation procedure, translation possibility 1. Cultural Consideration in Translation It has been long taken for granted that translation deals only with language. Cultural perspective, however, has never been brought into discussion. This can be seen in most of the following definitions.