Functional Equivalence
Functional equivalence refers to the concept that different systems or entities can serve the same purpose or function, even if they operate in distinct ways. For example, a smartphone and a laptop can both be used for communication, internet browsing, and accessing applications, despite their different forms and interfaces.
In the context of translation, functional equivalence emphasizes conveying the same meaning and effect in the target language as in the source language. This approach prioritizes the intended message and emotional impact over a word-for-word translation, ensuring that the essence of the original content is preserved.