Author: Zhu Ling

Abstract: In the context of frequent international exchanges around the world, metro prompt words also play an important role in cultural communication. This paper takes Skopos Theory as the theoretical perspective to explore the translation strategies of metro prompt words. After analyzing the importance, research progress and trends of metro prompt words, this paper puts forward targeted translation strategies based on the three rules of Skopos Theory, and verifies the effectiveness of the strategies with examples of prompt words in different scenarios such as station entry, riding and exit. Finally, it puts forward optimization suggestions such as strengthening translator training, establishing a quality review mechanism and unifying translation standards, and discusses the enlightenment of Skopos Theory to the translation of other public signs. This study enriches the application of Skopos Theory in the field of public sign translation and provides a reference for the translation practice of metro prompt words.

Keywords: Skopos Theory, metro prompt words, translation strategies, cross-cultural communication

Article Info: Received: 11 Apr 2026; Received in revised form: 09 May 2026; Accepted: 14 May 2026; Available online: 20 May 2026

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.113.21