Explicitation in Translation

First coined by Vinay and Darbelnet, the term explicitation refers to the incorporation of explanations or details in translation that are merely implied by the original text, but can nonetheless be understood through context or situation. Explicitation occurs when the translator complements the original text by adding explanatory phrases, implications or conjunctions to clarify reasoning or improve comprehension. Through research and discussion of this very common process, we shed light on different phenomena in the work of (mainly) literary translators, and suggest how these may relate to their skills and personalities.