YJSSH


Semantic Ambiguity in Translation: A Comparative Study Between English and Indonesian

Saragih, Tias Bastian (Unknown)
Damanik, Bernieke Anggita Ristia (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigates semantic ambiguity in translation, with a specific focus on lexical ambiguity in the English–Indonesian translation of the Cinderella short story. Grounded in Nida and Taber’s theory of semantic equivalence and Baker’s framework of non-equivalence, the research examines how lexical items in the source language may lead to multiple interpretations or shifts in meaning when translated into the target language. Using a qualitative content analysis method, the study identifies patterns of meaning distortion resulting from ambiguous or culturally loaded words. The findings indicate that lexical ambiguity significantly contributes to semantic non-equivalence, often causing partial or lost meaning that undermines narrative clarity and coherence. The study highlights the critical role of contextual awareness and lexical precision in literary translation to preserve intended meaning.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

yjssh

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Social Sciences

Description

Young Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (YJSSH) is an academic journal which focuses on social and humanistic issues, both of a conceptual and an empirical nature. The journal uses a multidisciplinary perspective with a focus on the main issue. The journal is open to all to contribute to it, ...