Kostiantyn Kosharnyi

New ethics” of translation: stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusivity in English-Ukrainian translations of socio-political texts in the 2020s

Introduction

New ethics” of translation: stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusivity in english-ukrainian translations of socio-political texts in the 2020s. Explore the "new ethics" of English-Ukrainian translation of socio-political texts (2020s). Identify stylistic markers of tolerance & inclusivity for ethical adaptation of sensitive vocabulary.

Abstract

The article is devoted to the “new ethics” of translation and stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusiveness, which in the early 2020s became decisive for the English-Ukrainian translations of socio-political texts. The purpose of the article is to identify and systematically analyse the stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusivity in the translation of socio-political texts of the 2020s from English into Ukrainian and to identify translation strategies that achieve ethical correctness and adequate reproduction of the modern discourse. The material for the analysis is modern English-language research in the field of translation studies and original texts dating from the first half of the 21st century. The purpose of the article is to identify and systematically analyze stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusivity in the translation of socio-political texts from English into Ukrainian in the 2020s, and to determine translation strategies that achieve ethical correctness and accurate rendering of modern discourse. The material for the analysis consists of modern English-language research in the field of translation studies and original texts dating from the first half of the 21st century. It has been established that linguistic inclusion has become an effective way to restore social justice and ensure respect for every human difference through its correct nomination and favorable attitude, especially in the socio-political discourse we are considering. It has been determined that such texts are a challenge for Ukrainian translators, as we still do not have effective strategies and mechanisms in place to regulate the methods of adequately adapting “sensitive” vocabulary to linguistic norms and the choice of correct names for various social phenomena. Specialists must decide for themselves how to accurately convey the meaning of the original without violating the norms of the modern Ukrainian literary language and the ethical standards of the country whose socio-political text is being translated. The article describes the specifics of lexical, syntactic, cultural, and stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusiveness, which are used to ensure adequate and ethical reproduction of the original text. The analysis of theoretical and practical materials on the outlined issue allowed us to determine the orientation of the markers, including the rules for choosing the necessary feminitives, using the person-first language, adhering to a neutral position when translating socio-political terms, and also controlling the choice of evaluative or stigmatized forms. It was determined that lexical, syntactic, stylistic and cultural markers of tolerance and inclusion help translators adequately reproduce the original texts, preserve their content and pragmatism, and avoid discrimination and stigmatization of individual social groups. It was concluded that during the war in Ukraine, translation balances between the global DEI standards and the national, patriotic and value-based features of speech. Taking into account international experience, the Ukrainian translation community forms its own strategies of ethical translation and practices of linguistic inclusion that correspond to the specifics of the national context.

Review

This article addresses a highly pertinent and timely topic: the "new ethics" of translation, focusing on stylistic markers of tolerance and inclusivity in English-Ukrainian socio-political texts from the 2020s. The research aims to systematically identify and analyze these markers, as well as the translation strategies employed to ensure ethical correctness and adequate reproduction of modern discourse. In an era where global communication increasingly emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and considering the specific socio-political landscape of Ukraine, this study offers a critical examination of how translation mediates these evolving ethical standards. The exploration of linguistic inclusion as a means to restore social justice and promote respect for human differences underscores the significant societal impact of translation practice. The methodology involves analyzing modern English-language research in translation studies alongside original socio-political texts from the first half of the 21st century. The authors delve into specific lexical, syntactic, cultural, and stylistic markers, providing practical insights into their application. Key findings reveal that the proper selection of feminitives, the use of person-first language, maintaining neutrality in socio-political terms, and controlling evaluative or stigmatized forms are crucial for ethically sound translations. The article importantly highlights the significant challenges faced by Ukrainian translators, who often lack established strategies and mechanisms for adapting "sensitive" vocabulary, necessitating individual judgment to balance international ethical standards with the norms of the modern Ukrainian literary language. Ultimately, this paper makes a valuable contribution to translation studies by not only identifying critical markers and strategies but also by contextualizing them within the unique socio-political environment of contemporary Ukraine. The conclusion that translation during wartime balances global DEI standards with national, patriotic, and value-based speech features is particularly insightful, underscoring the complex dynamic between universal ethical principles and specific national identities. By detailing how the Ukrainian translation community is forming its own strategies of ethical translation and linguistic inclusion, the article offers a compelling perspective on the adaptive and responsive nature of translation practice, providing essential guidance for translators navigating these intricate ethical and linguistic landscapes.

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