Reflections on the lexical variation in the Spanish-speaking world and its relation with translation

Abstract

This note outlines some general reflections on lexical variation in the Spanish language and the difficulties involved as regards to translation to Spanish. First, a general characterization of variation as a linguistic phenomenon is introduced, as well as the current situation of the Spanish language around the world. Then, the verbal traditions and some discursive genres used by Spanish speakers as part of their linguistic practices are described. Finally, the main issues of lexical variation as a theoretical concept are established, aiming to delineate some of its repercussions in certain translating tasks in general, and in audiovisual translation in particular.