Rethinking the Use of “Should” in Translation Criticism

The use of “should” in the applied translation studies such as translators training, translation aids and translation criticism has proved to be one of the most important tools for progress in the discipline since Holme put forward the basic map of Translation Studies. In this paper, the author discusses mainly the use of “should” in translation criticism, arguing that, the many advantages to be had by this method notwithstanding, there are problems. For example, it is not always fair to judge one translator’s work too soon and too sure; and offering overwhelming advice induces disrespect to the translator. For these reasons, the author argues, it is worth exploring ways of translation criticism beyond traditional mode of “should” which may seem subversive of standard uses, either alone or in conjunction with Descriptive Translation Studies (DTS).