Word-for-word translation

Names: Rita Eustáquio, Sara Pereira, Nuria Mandane, Joana Clemente, Madalena Santos, Madalena Paulo, Tiago Esperança, Sofia Barbetta, Anna Prymak, Anna Holovina

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Presenter(s): Anna Holovina

Group 1

Definition of word-for-word translation

Word-for-word translation - scrupulously follows the word order and wording in a sentence, which can result in an unfamiliar structure in the target language/text.

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It can also be called Literal Translation and Metaphrase.

When should we use word-for-word translation?

1. Technical or legal documents: In technical or legal documents, accuracy is crucial, and even a slight change in wording can have significant consequences. Therefore, word for word translation may be appropriate in these cases.

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• Poetry or literature: In poetry or literature, the words and their arrangement are often crucial to the meaning and beauty of the work. Therefore, a word for word translation may be useful in preserving the original language and structure of the text.

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• Language learning: When you are learning a new language, word for word translation can be helpful in understanding the basic meanings of words and phrases.

When should we avoid word-for-word translation?

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When our translation sounds awkward, unnatural or “stiff” in the target language. Avoid in Literary works, for example.

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Direct translations experience difficulty with content that is more personal, as the main problems with literal translation arise from idioms and context. This makes literal translation particularly unsuited for consumer-facing content or content designed to inspire or persuade.

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When machines translate word by word, they do not consider the nuances of a language, namely structure, grammar, idioms, and context. Your sentences are deprived of emotions and tone of voice, significantly impacting the desired effect of your content on your audience. They also increase the risk of delivering or creating a text with a different meaning.

What are the advantages of word-for-word translation?

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• Saves the original meaning of the source text
• A basis for other types of translation
• Does not embellish or detract author’s talent

What are the disadvantages of word-for-word translation?

• The target text loses the context of the source text
• Words might not have the same meaning from one language to another
• The figures of speech are impossible to translate
• Idioms can lose their meaning