ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how the concept of translation universals has evolved from the mid-1970s to date. It also shows how empirical research into translation universals, variedly named probabilistic laws of translational behaviour, patterns of lexical use, distinctive features of the product and process of written and oral translation, is underpinned by convergent theoretical approaches that view translation as a particular form of mediated communication that is shaped, as any form of communication is, by common and specific linguistic, cultural and contextual factors.
