Translating Chinese Zero Anaphoric Subjects into English

Abstract

Different means of translating the zero anaphor subject in Chinese into English are explored. English sentences generally require a subject whereas Chinese, a discourse-oriented language, does not. Among the ways in which translators may choose to render the Chinese zero anaphor subject in English are use of proper nouns, pronouns, passive voice & existential subjects, coordination, subordination, & rearrangement of clauses. Different devices are appropriate in different circumstances. The translator's individuality also plays a role.