The Translation and Adaptation of Chinese Songs from the Perspective of Functional Equivalence Theory: A Case Study of the MelodyC2E Team at Shanghai International Studies University

Abstract

This study examines the Chinese-to-English song translation practice of MelodyC2E, a student-run translation team at Shanghai International Studies University, within the theoretical framework of Nida's functional equivalence. The team, composed of non-professional student translators, releases English translations and cover versions of Chinese songs across three genres: Chinese-style songs, pop songs, and film and television soundtracks. Drawing on functional equivalence theory, the study constructs an analytical framework encompassing the lexical, syntactic, cultural, and rhythmic dimensions, and applies it to a purposive sample of nine representative songs, including “Big Fish,” “Encounter,” and “Light Chaser.” The analysis reveals that MelodyC2E's translation strategies are governed by the dual goals of musical adaptation and cultural dissemination, with reader-response equivalence as the core principle and singability as the primary requirement. Translators adjust their strategies according to genre: Chinese-style songs prioritize the conversion of cultural imagery, pop songs favor colloquial expression, and film soundtracks emphasize the restoration of situational emotion. Across genres, the team consistently employs strategies such as splitting long sentences, adapting end-rhymes, and simplifying redundant expressions. The study highlights the theoretical, practical, cultural, and campus-educational value of these translations, identifies limitations concerning translator competence, cultural depth, literary scope, and dissemination channels, and proposes corresponding recommendations, offering a reference for student participation in cross-cultural communication.