Nida’s theory of Functional Equivalence has made a a great
contribution to the field of translation studies in China, but whether its core
concept “equivalence” should be translated into “ 对等” is still controversial. By
comparing several typical translations of this concept, combing representative
theorists’ interpretations of it, and analyzing the value of the Functional
Equivalence theory, this paper argues that nothing is wrong with the translation
of “equivalence” into “ 对等”,and it would not prevent us from correctly
understanding the theory or applying it into the practice of translation.