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Challenges and Perspectives of Translating Emotions into Albanian and English

Dorjana Flett1*

1University “Ismail Qemali“ Vlore, Albania

Received: June 2026 | Accepted: June 2026 | Published: June 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63871/unvl.jsuv2.1.31

Abstract


Translating emotions represents one of the most complex challenges faced by translators. This theoretical paper argues that emotional translation is not limited to the mere transfer of words but involves the faithful conveyance of feelings, affective connotations, and cultural meanings deeply rooted in each language. The paper highlights specific challenges posed by translation between Albanian and English – two languages that differ significantly in linguistic structure, cultural traditions, and ways of expressing emotions.

Through qualitative analysis combining concrete examples from literary and narrative texts, the paper examines obstacles such as lack of direct equivalents for certain emotions, stylistic differences, and culture specific features. It emphasizes translation strategies including explanation, compensation, and linguistic creativity to preserve emotional authenticity. The conclusion underscores the need for translators to maintain a sensitive, reflective approach to capture underlying emotional energy, thereby ensuring faithful intercultural transmission. 

Declarations


Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Acknowledged: NA

AI use: NA

References


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Hubscher-Davidson, S. (2018). Translation and emotion: A psychological perspective. Routledge.

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Rira, D. (2019). Les défis du traducteur albanais face au parler européen. Gerflint.

Wierzbicka, A. (1999). Emotions across languages and cultures: Diversity and universals. Cambridge University Press.

Citing literature


Flett, D. (2026). Challenges and perspectives of translating emotions into Albanian and English. UniVlora Scientific Journal, 1(2). https://doi.org/10.63871/unvl.jsuv2.1.31

Copyright © 2026 The Author(s)

This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license.