Loss and Addition in Cultural Translation

This study investigates the translation of proverbs and idiomatic expressions between Arabic and English, focusing on the challenges of loss and addition in cultural translation. Proverbs and idioms carry significant cultural and poetic elements, making them difficult to translate while preserving their original meaning and impact. This study examines how cultural contexts affect translation, identifies the main challenges translators face, and explores the effects of adding or omitting elements during translation.The research employs a qualitative approach, analyzing a representative sample of proverbs and idiomatic expressions from Arabic and English. Findings indicate that adding explanatory elements can enhance understanding but may alter the original intent and cultural resonance. Conversely, omitting elements to achieve brevity often leads to a loss of meaning and cultural nuances. The study highlights the importance of cultural awareness in translation and provides practical recommendations for translators to address these challenges.This work contributes to translation studies by offering insights into the impact of cultural contexts on translation practices.