ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 1 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
286
LEXICAL PROBLEMS IN THE TRANSLATION OF PIRIMQUL KADIROV'S NOVEL
"STARRY NIGHTS"
Saidova Shakhinabonu Shavkat kizi
Bukhara State University
Faculty of Foreign Languages Comparative Linguistics and Linguistic Translation Studies:
English Language, 1st Year Master's Student.
Kilicheva Mehriniso Radjabovna
Scientific supervisor, Associate professor of English literature department.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14635326
Abstract. This essay examines the linguistic difficulties faced in translating Pirimqul
Kadirov's acclaimed novel Starry Nights into English. The study analyses how cultural subtleties,
idiomatic phrases, and region-specific lexicon in the original Uzbek text hinder the attainment of
an accurate and stylistically faithful translation. It emphasises particular instances of lexical items
that necessitate meticulous attention, examining the ramifications of translation decisions on the
overarching narrative and cultural authenticity. The essay discusses ways for keeping the novel's
literary integrity while ensuring clarity for a global audience. This research enhances the
discipline of literary translation by elucidating the complex interaction among language, culture,
and context.
Keywords: Pirimqul Kadirov, Starry Nights, lexical issues, translation difficulties, Uzbek
literature, cultural subtleties, literary translation, idiomatic expressions, translation
methodologies.
ЛЕКСИЧЕСКИЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ ПЕРЕВОДА РОМАНА ПИРИМКУЛА КАДЫРОВА
«ЗВЕЗДНЫЕ НОЧИ»
Аннотация. В этом эссе рассматриваются лингвистические трудности,
возникающие при переводе известного романа Пиримкула Кадырова «Звездные ночи» на
английский язык. В исследовании анализируется, как культурные тонкости,
идиоматические фразы и региональная лексика в оригинальном узбекском тексте
препятствуют достижению точного и стилистически верного перевода. В нем
подчеркиваются конкретные случаи лексических единиц, требующих тщательного
внимания, исследуются последствия решений по переводу для всеобъемлющего
повествования и культурной аутентичности. В эссе обсуждаются способы сохранения
литературной целостности романа при обеспечении ясности для глобальной аудитории.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 1 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
287
Это исследование усиливает дисциплину литературного перевода, разъясняя сложное
взаимодействие между языком, культурой и контекстом.
Ключевые слова: Пиримкул Кадыров, «Звездные ночи», лексические проблемы,
трудности перевода, узбекская литература, культурные тонкости, литературный
перевод, идиоматические выражения, методологии перевода.
Introduction.
Translation is a multifaceted process that entails not merely conveying the
content of words but also encapsulating the cultural, emotional, and stylistic nuances of the original
text. The novel Starry Nights (Yulduzli Tunlar) by Pirimqul Kadirov, a seminal work of Uzbek
literature, has distinct obstacles for translators. This historical novel combines lyrical language,
cultural references, and historical context, rendering the translation a process that demands both
verbal proficiency and cultural awareness. This article analyses the lexical challenges faced in the
translation of Starry Nights, emphasising culture-specific terminology, idiomatic phrases, and
stylistic subtleties. Terms Specific to Culture A major issue in translating Starry Nights is the use
of culturally distinctive phrases that have no direct equivalents in other languages. This
encompasses traditional Uzbek notions, terminology related to attire, culinary items, and historical
allusions. For example: - Chapan: A customary Uzbek garment frequently referenced in the text.
Although it may be rendered as "robe" or "cloak," these designations inadequately capture
the cultural significance and distinctiveness of the garment. - Mahalla: This phrase denotes a
traditional neighbourhood structure, encompassing complex social and cultural dynamics that
cannot be succinctly expressed in a single word. The translator must determine whether to employ
a foreignization technique, retaining the phrase in its original form accompanied by an explanatory
note, or to utilise domestication, substituting it with a culturally analogous term in the target
language. Idiomatic Expressions Pirimqul Kadirov's employment of colloquial language enhances
the novel's complexity but presents difficulties for translators. These utterances frequently possess
cultural and emotional implications that are challenging to reproduce. For instance: - The Uzbek
expression "Ko‘ngli tog‘dek keng" (roughly, "His heart is as wide as a mountain") denotes
kindness and magnanimity. A literal translation may not resonate with readers unacquainted with
Uzbek figurative expressions. The effective translation of idioms necessitates inventive rephrasing
to express their intrinsic meaning and emotional resonance while preserving the rhythm and tone
of the original text. Stylistic Subtleties Kadirov's writing is characterised by its lyrical and
evocative style, featuring vivid imagery and rhythmic sentences.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 1 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
288
Translating this style while preserving the original meaning is a challenging endeavour.
For example: - The representation of historical occurrences frequently incorporates poetic
imagery, such as "The stars observed the desert's perpetual silence." The translator must maintain
the poetic quality while ensuring the language is comprehensible to the target audience.
Approaches for Resolving Lexical Issues To address these issues, translators may utilise
various strategies: 1. Contextual Adaptation: Modifying phrases and terminology to align with the
cultural and linguistic context of the intended audience while preserving the original meaning. 2.
Glossaries and Footnotes: Incorporating glossaries or explanatory footnotes for culturally unique
terminology to increase reader comprehension. 3. Collaborative Translation: Engaging cultural
advisors or native speakers to guarantee precision and authenticity. 4. Balanced Approach:
Achieving equilibrium between foreignization and domestication, guaranteeing that the
translated material remains true to the original while being accessible to the target audience.
Conclusion
The translation of Pirimqul Kadirov's Starry Nights necessitates a sophisticated approach
to tackle lexical challenges stemming from culturally particular terminology, idiomatic
expressions, and stylistic features. Through the application of innovative and knowledgeable
tactics, translators can close the linguistic and cultural divide, enabling readers from many
backgrounds to value the depth of Kadirov’s masterwork. The initiative enhances global literature
while promoting cross-cultural comprehension and respect of Uzbek literary heritage.
REFERENCES
1.
Baker, M. (2011). In Other Words: A Coursebook on Translation (2nd ed.). Routledge.
2.
Newmark, P. (1988). A Textbook of Translation. Prentice Hall.
3.
Kadirov, P. (1995). Starry Nights (Original Uzbek version). Tashkent: G'afur G'ulom
Publishing.
4.
Kadirov, P. (1998). Starry Nights (English Translation).
5.
Hatim, B., & Munday, J. (2004). Translation: An Advanced Resource Book. Routledge.
