I have a few minor rules for myself but I break them all…
“I have a few minor rules for myself but I break them all the time. For example, when translating from Romance languages to English, there is often a choice between a Latinate cognate and a Germanic equivalent. An easy example would be the Portuguese escuridão: English offers both obscurity and dark or darkness, and some translators will tell you the Latinate word is generally reserved for poetic and figurative expressions, while the Germanic word is used for colloquial and idiomatic use.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker acknowledges personal rules for translation choices but often breaks them, highlighting the tension between formal and informal language equivalents.
In simple terms: I set translation rules but often ignore them, especially choosing between formal and everyday words.
Key Takeaway
Accept flexibility in translation; balance formality with readability.
Themes
translation
language
flexibility
formality
colloquialism
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- literary translation
- technical documentation
- subtitling
- marketing copy
Key Concepts
linguistics
semantic choice
register theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you prioritize literal accuracy over natural flow?
- How do audience expectations shape word choice?
A Different Perspective
Strict adherence may hinder naturalness and audience connection.