Written by
Bernadine Racoma
Languages | Translations
October 7, 2020
Basic rules of translation
Translation is considered an art form, as the translator should have the knowledge,
creativity, and flexibility to ensure that the translations come out exactly as expected.
Translation is difficult because each language differs and contains innate
peculiarities and distinctions that can influence the translation into something
different from the source text if the translator is not careful and skillful.
Understanding the basic rules of translation ensures accuracy. Some of the rules
may apply only to a specific language, while others apply to certain languages.
Knowledge of the rules helps the translator decide how to proceed with the translation,
minimizing errors than can plague some translation projects.
Do not translate proper names
It is better not to translate proper names, such as the name of an institution, company,
or person, so that the text’s meaning is not lost. However, there are always exceptions
where you can write the translation of the term in parentheses at the first instance it
appears in the source document. Names of people should be retained as they are
written in the source text.
False cognates spell trouble
False cognates are word pairs that appear to be related because they may be similar
in meaning and sound. However, their etymologies (the sources of words) are
different. The thing about false cognates is that they may come from the same
language family, different languages, or the same language.
Translators must be aware of the different false cognates to avoid confusion. They
should have reference materials, dictionaries, and other tools to ensure their translation
work’s accuracy and integrity.
Literal translation does not apply to every word
Most words in one language have equal words in another language. However, some
words cannot be literally translated, meaning they require several words or a long
explanation to convey their meaning. Additionally, some words cannot be translated
at all.
Newbie translators should learn these basic rules of translation. However, there are
more complex rules to follow. Being a translator is a demanding job and requires
more skills and knowledge than just fluency in a language pair.
Translators become better at their job through tolerance, hard work, and dedication
to their chosen field. They do not stop learning and continue to develop their skills. If
you want to be good at your job, here are some translation tips to improve your
translation quality.
Avoid grammar mistakes and misprints by installing tools and apps such as
grammar and spelling checkers.
Apply the common practices and rules of the TL when you correct
punctuations and translate text.
Follow the ST as much as possible. There may be exceptions to the rule, but
you would know the terms and words that may require some variation from the
norm as a professional translator.
Do not be satisfied with just one reading. Read the translation several times,
silently and aloud, before you submit the translation to the editor. The process
will help you check if the words sound clear and harmonious. You may find that
some of the words you use are not appropriate.
Compare the translation to the original text and see that you express the
same message and context.
Ensure that you do not ignore the adverbs and adjectives, which can help
you improve the accuracy of the translation. They may not seem essential but
paying attention to them shows how skilled as a translator you are. Adverbs and
adjectives can lead the writer’s thoughts in a precise direction.
Pay attention to prepositions as well.
What is the formula for translation?
There is no fixed formula that you can use for translation. It is usually a
combination of several techniques, which the target language dictates.
Translation involves using different methods, according to the client’s requirement,
and applies to the entire document. Translation also uses different techniques, even
within the same document, depending on the text elements’ particular needs.
You can divide the techniques into two categories: direct translation and oblique
translation.
A. Direct translation
You use direct translation techniques when the source text’s conceptual and structural
elements can be transferred into the desired language. Techniques include:
1. Borrowing. This technique uses words from another language and using
them without translating them. The translator may pick up the source text’s
words and use them exactly in the target text.
2. Calque. In this technique, the translator borrows a phrase from another
language and translates it word-for-word in the target language.
3. Literal translation. The technique is also called metaphrase, a word-for-word.
B. Oblique translation
You use oblique translation techniques when the original text’s conceptual or
structural elements cannot be directly translated into the target language without
changing the target language’s stylistic and grammatical structure and its
meaning.
1. Transposition. This technique involves changing the sequence of the parts of
speech without changing the meaning of the phrase.
2. Modulation. Instead of changing the sequence, modulation introduces a point of
view change. The translator uses another phrase that differs from the source but
will communicate the same meaning.
3. Reformulation or equivalence. The technique requires using a different
expression to transmit the same meaning, which helps in translating proverbs,
idioms, interjections, and names of institutions.
4. Adaptation. With adaptation, the substitution is often cultural, meaning that the
translator uses another word or phrase that is more suitable and familiar to the
culture that speaks the requested language.
