Metaphorical Framing in Political Translation: Translating Xi Jinping’s Ecological Progress

Abstract

Metaphors are intricate linguistic devices and potent cognitive-discursive tools for persuasion in both source texts (ST) and target texts (TT). They primarily function in framing, namely the selection and clarification of cognitive domains, a function that is particularly vital in political communication. Yet, metaphorical framing, aka metaphor framing, as a pivotal cognitive strategy remains underexplored within political translation. In light of this, our study investigates how metaphorical framing operates in translating the Ecological Progress chapter of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. We find that metaphorical framing in political translation involves cognitive manipulation, emphasizing certain cognitive domain aspects and incorporating models of moral reasoning. In the case of Ecological Progress, institutional translators make explicit urgency and cooperation frames by personifying ‘ecology’ and establish a resolution frame through the translation of ‘red line’ and ‘thunder pool.’ This mediation helps to present China’s positive image and manifest its official stance. While ST and TT may differ in metaphor configurations, the TT frames resonate with the ST’s ideological and moral principles and align with the moral cognitive model of the target community. As such, the TT seeks to reinforce the moral authority of China’s call for international ecological cooperation, legitimate its ecological policies, and shape an image of a responsible, forward-thinking nation committed to ecological protection.

Keywords

• metaphor translation
• framing
• xi jinping: the governance of china
• translatorial mediation
• institutional translation