How to answer this Creative Thinking interview question about Idiomatic Translation for Mid-Level Translator?

How do you handle translating idiomatic expressions to retain their meaning in the target language?

Translator

Creative Thinking

Asked at

Lionbridge

Difficulty :

Medium

Explanation

This question evaluates your ability to adapt idiomatic expressions into the target language while preserving the original meaning and context. Recruiters assess your creativity, cultural knowledge, and linguistic flexibility. Common pitfalls include translating idiomatic expressions literally without considering cultural context or failing to find an equivalent expression. A strong answer involves explaining how you research and adapt idioms using culturally appropriate equivalents or creative phrasing.

Answer Example

I handle idiomatic expressions by first analyzing the context in which they are used and identifying the intended meaning. I then research culturally equivalent expressions in the target language or rephrase the message in a way that retains its impact. For example, when translating "spill the beans" into Spanish, I replaced it with the equivalent phrase "revelar el secreto" to maintain the intended meaning.

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