Translation

/trænsˈleɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The process of translating words or text from one language into another.
The translation of the document was completed in record time.
A written or spoken representation of the meaning of a word or text in another language.
I need a translation of this article in Spanish.
A version of a text in another language.
Her translation of the novel was praised for its accuracy.
The act of changing something from one form to another.
The translation of music notes into a digital format was fascinating to me.
The interpretive recreation of a text in a different context or medium.
The translation of Shakespeare's works into modern English has made them more accessible.

Etymology

From Latin 'translatio', meaning 'a carrying across'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lost in translation
A situation where the meaning of something is misunderstood during translation.
translate someone's words
To put someone's ideas or speech into another language or context.
a literal translation
A translation that adheres closely to the exact wording of the original text.

Related Words

interpretation
The act or result of explaining or translating information.
transcribe
To write down or record spoken words.
translator
A person who translates written text.

Slang Meanings

Lost in translation
When we try to explain complex concepts across languages, they often get lost in translation.
Translation error
The menu had a translation error that made the dish sound unappealing.