Translate

Definition

Translate is a verb meaning to express the meaning of words or text in another language. It can also refer to the act of converting something into a different form, mode, or medium.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /trænsˈleɪt/ or /trænzˈleɪt/
• Respelling: TRANS-layt or TRANZ-layt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /trænzˈleɪt/ or /trænsˈleɪt/
• Respelling: TRANZ-layt or TRANS-layt

Etymology

The word "translate" originates from the Latin "translatus," the past participle of "transferre," meaning "to carry across" or "to transfer." It is composed of "trans-" (across) and "ferre" (to carry). The term was first used in English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Translation (noun)
• Translator (noun)
• Translatable (adjective)
• Retranslate (verb)
• Untranslatable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Interpret
• Convert
• Transform

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The verb "translate" is commonly used in linguistic contexts, as in "She can translate texts from French to English." It is also used figuratively to mean conversion: "The design must translate well to digital formats."

Related Terms

• Interpretation: The action of explaining or translating orally.
• Conversion: The act of changing something into a different form.
• Transformation: A thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To render written or spoken words into another language: Refers to linguistic translation.
  • Example: "He translated the novel into Spanish."
• To change something into a different form or medium: Refers to adaptation or transformation.
  • Example: "The painting’s emotions translate beautifully into music."
• To explain or interpret something in simpler terms: Refers to making something understandable.
  • Example: "Can you translate this legal jargon for me?"
• To move or transfer from one place or condition to another: Refers to a physical or metaphorical shift.
  • Example: "The bishop was translated to another diocese."