Set 5: Inferences (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The translation preserves the poem's literal meaning but loses its rhyme scheme and meter. A freer translation captures the musicality but departs from precise wording. Neither is 'right'—each prioritizes different aspects of the original, revealing that translation always involves trade-offs rather than neutral transfer of meaning.
What does the passage suggest about the nature of translation?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Trade-offs rather than neutral transfer' = interpretive choices among competing values. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "each prioritizes different aspects"
• "translation always involves trade-offs"
Why others are wrong: A (Two translations are discussed—it can be done, with trade-offs.), C (Freer translations are also presented as valid options.), D ('Neither is right' = no perfect version.).