Proverbs and idioms in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter fantasy novel series

This study systematically examines the use of idioms and proverbs in the Turkish translation of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. The survey revealed that only 2 proverbs were used as direct equivalents, compared to 281 idioms employed to enrich the narrative, a disparity attributed to the strong cultural specificity of proverbs. The identified idioms were classified into 21 distinct categories, including emotion, behavior, danger, and humor. The findings of the research indicate that the translator adopted a strategy of "measured localization." While carefully preserving the original British cultural atmosphere of the text, the translation skillfully leverages the expressive power and idiomatic richness of the Turkish language. The idioms served to enhance character depictions, diversified in parallel with the series' progressively darker tone, and played a critical role in conveying its humor. This balanced approach is identified as a fundamental reason for the profound emotional connection and literary enjoyment the work fosters among Turkish readers. The study concludes that this successful translation stands as an exemplar of a work that remains faithful to the source text while simultaneously creating a highly authentic and impactful experience in the target culture.