Text and Context in Translation

A text can be flawless grammatically; however, reading and perceiving the main idea can never be well-grasped. This is because the context is not decently provided, and the level of clarity has gone down. In other words, if the reader fails to understand the context, the text makes no sense. Here is the breakdown of why the context in translation is important.

It determines meaning and resolves ambiguity

Determining meaning and resolving ambiguity is among the main reasons why the context in translation matters. Words do not have single meanings, and since they have multiple definitions, a translator can quite unexpectedly choose an inappropriate definition. The English word “date,” for instance, could refer to the day of the month or year as specified by a number, or it might stand for a social or romantic appointment, and in another context, it could refer to the sweet fruit that grows on date palm trees. The same is true for idioms and set expressions since they can’t have a word-for-word translation. A phrase like “to cost an arm and a leg” means “something is very expensive”, and one should translate only the meaning that was intended initially by finding the equivalent in his/her culture that expresses the same idea.

Paying attention to cultural differences

Recognizing cultural elements in the translation process is a guarantee that you will never fail. Some elements in your language that have a specific social, cultural, or historical background cannot be perceived in another language. That is why translating metaphors and jokes is always challenging. What is more, one can find unique mindsets, formalities, and tones typical of each culture. A polite phrase in one culture can be found quite disrespectful or irritating in others. However, as soon as the cultural context is incorporated, it is possible to successfully navigate the specific nuances and come up with a brilliant end result.

Identifying the target audience of the translation

The context is understandable when it is clear who the translation is meant to serve. It is the readership that influences the tone of the text and word choice. A post on a social media platform should be persuasive and answer the question of why to buy the product, while a medical conclusion by a doctor should be precise and accurate, and should meet the requirements of formal language. To conclude, in parallel to defining the end user of the translation, it is important to know the intended readership of the translation and the intention that is concealed behind the text.

Giving thought to grammar

The context cannot be properly perceived if grammar and syntax are not paid much attention to. A translator has the goal of translating the text in a way that is typical of the target audience. This is not a piece of cake for a translator since languages have different characteristics. In some languages, the verb stands before the noun or comes as the last word of a sentence. In English, for example, first comes the noun of the sentence, then the verb. Also, context is impactful when gender and number agreement in the sentence are determined. Though these grammar elements may not be present in the source text, the context will help the translator make a correct choice. This ensures that the grammar of the text is preserved.

Keeping consistency in the text

In all kinds of translations, and particularly in legal, medical, and technical ones, consistent use of the initially chosen terminology is of great importance. This is the key to successful translation and the way of avoiding misinterpretation. When context is added, the usage of specific terms is ensured automatically. If the translator fails to understand the context of the text, that is to say, it is not possible to review the text with a broader perspective, the target text will suffer a lot.

Now, let’s simply break down the relationship and differences between context and translation.

Meaning is shaped by context

If the translator relies on words, the meaning will often be lost. For a smooth translation and a quality result, it is important to understand the intended message that is hidden behind the text, and it is the context, definitely.

Translation is dependent on contextual understanding

Even if a translator is loyal to all grammar rules, the translated text will still be conceptually wrong if the context factor is not well considered. When translating a text, a professional translator transfers the text, bringing it closer to the new language, culture, traditions, mindset, etc. This means the following types of context should be at the center of a translator’s attention. In short, context clues should be understood and used correctly. 

Contextual Choices are the basis of flawless translation

Each language has its peculiarities, such as idioms, expressions, etc. Here, context ensures that translation is not a simple word rendering from one language into another, but it’s a deeper and wider process with the goal of understanding the intention, situation, etc. The context leads to a correct choice of tone and style and leaves no room for misunderstandings.

Translation without context is making soup without salt. Even if the end result is what you need, the taste and the satisfaction after eating it are not the same, since salt is an indispensable ingredient in the kitchen. The image is the same when a text is translated without taking context into consideration. Though it is grammatically correct and well-structured at face value, the meaning, tone, and author’s intention can be lost or at least distorted. If the translator does not know much about the surrounding circumstances, audience, and has no cultural background, the translation can be nothing but guesswork that is full of predictions, misunderstandings, and errors.

What Happens When There’s No Context?

In this section, it is worth analyzing what happens when a text is translated without a context and what the consequences are.

1. Uncertainty is still present

Since a lot of words have more than one meaning, only context sheds light on the correct one.
For example, the word “bank” with its first meaning stands for a financial situation, while the side of a river is its second definition.

2. Misinterpreted set phrases, idioms, and expressions

Was the translation of an idiom funny and surprising? It is because it was a word-for-word translation. For instance, the translation of “the ball is in your court” may sound strange and meaningless unless it’s interpreted as “it’s your decision or responsibility to take the next step”.

3. Tone and register can be inappropriate

If the text is translated without context, the wrong tone can be chosen. The speech of the speaker may sound too casual, cold, or over-tempered. To avoid such a problem, it is recommended to analyze the text and conclude whether it is formal, sarcastic, etc.

4. Cultural references are lost

Very often, translators fail to translate jokes and anecdotes properly, and this is because, without context, they are misrepresented, while adaptation is required to avoid loss of cultural elements.

5. Pronouns and gender get confusing

The expression of number, gender, or formality is not the same in different languages. The translator can opt for a wrong equivalent or an incorrect grammatical form if the text and context in the translation are not given much attention, and the translator does not know, for example, to whom “they” refer.
Being faithful to the source message and relying on context are two good signs that you provide quality translation.

By forgetting to consider the context, the translators negatively influence the accuracy, clarity, and cultural sensitivity of the target text. This leads to a number of common problems, and here are the most frequent issues:

1. Literally translation of idioms and figurative language
2. Inappropriate word choice
3. Loss of tone
4. Cultural misunderstandings and failed communication
5. Gender and number errors
6. Incoherence and inconsistency
7. Loss of author’s intent