ABSTRACT
While there is a long tradition of research into the notion of competence in other disciplines, such as applied linguistics, work psychology and pedagogy, research into translation competence from the field of Translation Studies did not begin until the mid-1980s, and especially after the 1990s, and was consolidated after 2000. This chapter follows the evolution of research into translation competence and its acquisition, presenting the different models which have been put forward and the empirical studies carried out. It goes on to offer conclusions on the characteristics of how translation competence functions and its acquisition, and finally traces out research perspectives, pointing out the ensuing difficulties and priority needs.
