Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.21464/fi45206

Refraction in Language. Language Game in Translation

Pia Orešković ; Sveučilište Sjever, Trg dr. Žarka Dolinara 1, HR–48000 Koprivnica
Ivana Grabar orcid.org/0000-0001-9245-6280 ; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Fakultet filozofije i religijskih znanosti, Jordanovac 110, HR–10000 Zagreb
Marijana Kolednjak orcid.org/0000-0002-5266-9123 ; Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Fakultet filozofije i religijskih znanosti, Jordanovac 110, HR–10000 Zagreb

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of refraction in language, with a focus on its philosophical, linguistic and translational aspects. It considers refraction to be an inevitable process of adapting linguistic structures during translation that can lead to changes in meaning and perception of reality. Building on Wittgenstein’s philosophy of language — particularly his concept of language games and the assertion that “the meaning of a word is its use in the language” — the paper argues that translation is a complex interaction between two linguistic and cultural systems, rather than a mechanical process. Theories of equivalence in translation are analysed, with a particular focus on the distinction between formal and dynamic equivalence, and the role of the translator as an active participant in shaping meaning. The paper concludes that refraction is not only a linguistic necessity, but also a philosophical issue that raises questions concerning the manipulation, interpretation and transformation of meaning within different language systems.

Keywords

refraction in language; philosophy of language; Ludwig Wittgenstein; translation; language games

Hrčak ID:

335475

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/335475

Publication date:

25.9.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 589 *