Motivation as a determinant of translation activity and forms of its expression

Abstract

The article deals with the phenomenon of motivation as a key factor determining the professional activity of translators. The author focuses on the significance of internal and external stimuli that infl uence the choice of translation strategies and methods, as well as the final result of translation. Special attention is paid to the role of personal and creative aspects that characterise translation activity as a form of professional self-expression. Various forms of translation motivation are analysed in detail, including the translator’s comments, prefaces, notes and other metatextual elements that contribute to the elimination of semantic losses and cultural asymmetries. The study is based on an interdisciplinary approach combining linguistics, psychology and translation studies, which allows for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying translators’ professional choices.