Retranslational

Retranslational is an adjective used in translation studies and literary criticism to describe anything related to the practice of producing a new translation of a text that already exists in a prior translation. The term emphasizes the act of translating again rather than translating from the original language for the first time.

Retranslation serves several purposes. Publishers may commission a new rendition to reflect contemporary language, to correct perceived errors or biases in an earlier translation, or to offer a different interpretive perspective. The practice can address shifts in cultural norms, readers’ expectations, or advances in translation theory. As a result, retranslated works often exhibit differences in tone, style, terminology, and phrasing compared with earlier versions, while still aiming to convey the source text’s meaning.

In scholarly and literary contexts, retranslational activity is analyzed for its impact on reception, authority, and canon formation. Retranslations can coexist with earlier translations, enabling comparative study of how interpretations evolve over time. Critics sometimes debate whether a new translation should strive for fidelity to previous renderings or prioritize fresh linguistic and cultural relevance, highlighting tensions between “faithfulness” and readability.

Notable examples include modern retranslations of classical works, such as Homer’s epics, where newer English versions have sought more literal or contemporary rendering than mid- to late-20th-century translations. In general, retranslational activity is common for widely read or studied texts and is a recognized phenomenon in translation history, publishing, and literary criticism. See also translation studies, retranslating, and literary translation.