The German functional translation theory is proposed in the 1970s and 1980s. The functional sort of translation criticism is included from Katharina Reiss, Skopos theorie from Hans J. Vermeer, Justa Holz-Manttari's theory of translational action and Function plus Loyalty Principle from Christiane Nord. Vermeer's Skopos theorie is the key element of functional translation theory. It emphasizes interaction and pragmatic features of tranlation. He thinks the form of target language is firstly decided by function what is the purpose in the target language context.

We can distinguish between three possible kinds of purpose in the field of translation: the general purpose aimed at by the translator in the translational process, the communicative purpose aimed at by the target text in the target situation and the purpose aimed at by a particular translation strategy or procedure. Neverless, the term Skopos usually refers to the purpose of the translator. (Nord, 2001: 27-28) which is choosed by the originator of the translational action. 文献综述

2.1 Three Rules of Skopos Theory

We will take different strategy and methods if we have different translation purposes.That explains what is Skopos theorie. When translating, the translator should follow three general principle—Skopos rule, coherence rule and fidelity rule. 

Vermeer explains the Skopos rule in the following way: Each text is produced for a given purpose and should serve this purpose. The Skopos rule thus reads as follows: translate/interpret/speak/write in a way that enables your text/translation to function in the situation in which it is used and with the people who want to use it and precisely in the way they want it to function. (Nord, 2001: 29)