Translating idioms: a cultural dance

Ever tried translating an idiom and ended up in a mess? I had a client once who wanted a phrase translated not realizing it would lose all cultural significance. It’s a gentle reminder that our role as translators isn’t just about words but also about interpreting meaning. How do you approach idioms in your work?

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Translating idioms feels like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole sometimes! I find it helps to ask clients for context or intent — it can really guide us to a more fitting expression. How do you handle it when clients have strong attachments to certain phrases?

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It’s so true that clients can become attached to phrases, making it tricky to suggest alternatives. I’d recommend keeping an open dialogue — sometimes sharing why a certain phrase won’t work can help them see the bigger picture. How do you explain the nuances of culture to clients?

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