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In:Border Crossings: Translation Studies and other disciplines
Edited by Yves Gambier and Luc van Doorslaer
[Benjamins Translation Library 126] 2016
► pp. 263–286

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Multilingualism studies and translation studies

Still a long road ahead

ORCiD logo with link | KU Leuven
 | University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
Published online: 14 September 2016
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/btl.126.13mey
This chapter explores the relation between multilingual studies and translation and interpreting by focusing on two interrelated fields in multilingual studies, conveniently referred to as language policy and planning. By focusing particularly on this specialised field, one is able to understand the role of translation and interpreting better and thus chart the way forward how to deal with this relation in translation studies. The chapter first presents a historical overview by establishing at what point and for what purpose multilingualism studies felt the need to adopt the concept of ‘translation’. It then moves on to describe how this concept has been adapted to and been understood in language policy and planning, including how it is defined. Specific attention is then given to theoretical and methodological exchanges between language policy and planning and translation and interpreting. Despite some interesting developments the authors conclude that one still sees very little evidence of constructive exchanges between language policy and planning studies and translation studies. It is argued that a real theoretical, conceptual and methodological exchange would benefit both disciplines but that many challenges remain.
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