Definition

1. Verb:
   • To translate again: To perform the act of translation on a text that has already been translated, either into the original language or into a third language. This can be done to improve accuracy, correct errors, or adapt the text for a different purpose or audience.

Usage

• The verb "retranslate" is used when discussing the process of re-doing a translation. It often implies a critical review or a need for improvement of a previous translation.
• It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object (the text being translated again).
• Common contexts include literary criticism, localization, academic research, and professional translation services.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The publisher decided to retranslate the classic novel for a modern audience.
  • After finding several errors, the team had to retranslate the entire legal document.
  • Scholars often retranslate ancient texts as new historical evidence comes to light.

Advanced Usage

• "Retranslate from scratch": To translate again without referring to or relying on the previous translation, starting completely anew.
  • The original translation was so flawed that the editor asked us to retranslate it from scratch.
• Concept of "Retranslation" (Noun): The act or result of retranslating. While "retranslate" is the verb, "retranslation" is the related noun form.
  • The new retranslation of the poem captured the original's rhythm much better.

Variants and Related Words

• Retranslation (n): The product or process of translating something again.
  • The latest retranslation of the Bible has sparked much debate.
• Translator (n): A person who translates.
• Translate (v): To express the sense of words or text in another language.

Synonyms

• Reinterpret: To interpret something again or differently, often used in a broader artistic or analytical sense, but can overlap with retranslation in seeking a new understanding.
• Redo the translation: A more descriptive phrase with the same meaning.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The core meaning of "retranslate" is consistently "to translate again." There are no significantly different meanings, but the purpose can vary:
  • Corrective: To fix mistakes.
  • Modernizing: To update language and cultural references.
  • Alternative Interpretation: To provide a different literary or philosophical take on the source text.

Verb

1. translate again