Language games vs. the game of translation

The article focuses on experimental researching the strategies, methods and means of reproducing nominative language game in popular scientific discourse. We proceed from understanding games by Ludwig Wittgenstein Johan Huizinga according to which its varieties include both acts nomination translation. research is based neological quasi-terms whose main function not give names objects but induce expressive coloring (terminological connotation) context. With help algorithmic modeling, we formulated potential strategies for ascribing meanings English them Ukrainian, afterwards designed conducted retrospective experiment aimed at verifying above strategies. involved 34 semi-professional subjects who translated text fragments submitted their reports concerning reproduction control units (quasi-terms). analysis only confirmed validity modeled also allowed describe translators’ decisions terms theory. In particular, attempting coin equivalent a non-equivalent quasi-term following source model word-formation elements, translator accepts author’s rules; while employing his/her own and/or elements offers set rules. either case, lexicalized form can be seen as translator’s victory, omitting it target clear sign defeat. Descriptive translation takes somewhat intermediate position: one hand, allows convey meaning unit, other leads loss unit’s concomitant terminological connotation.