If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times: There’s more to translation than taking a word in one language, finding the meaning of that word in another language, and plugging it into a sentence. We recently looked at a list of words called homonyms, which are spelled the same and are pronounced the same, but have a totally different meanings. When taken out of context, they can produce quite the translation dilemma. But these are not the only words that can cause commotion when it comes to proper translation.
The Hassle of Homophones
There are many words that sound the same, but have different spellings and meanings, called homophones. Some examples include:
- Eight – a number Ate – the past tense of eat
- Blue – a colour Blew – the past tense of blow
- Genes – a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome (Merriam-Webster) Jeans – denim pants
Then there’s the really confusing words with three meanings:
- Meddle – to interfere in someone else’s private affairs Metal – a substance that conducts electricity or heat Medal – a small metal object issued to commemorate a person or event or awarded for excellence or achievement (Merriam-Webster).
- Their – relating to them They’re – they are There – in or at that place
- Bye – a sentiment of farewell when leaving Buy – to make a purchase with money By – in proximity to; near
The Horror of Homographs
Words that are spelled the same, but are pronounced differently and have different meanings, are called homographs. These are easier to decipher in speech, but can be a nightmare for written translations. This is where the translator must rely on context as their guide.
- Bat: A winged, nocturnal animal A piece of sports equipment
- Fair: Not dark A local celebration Not good or bad; acceptable
- Minute: Very small A measure of time (60 seconds)
- Bass: A low tone voice A stringed instrument with the lowest range A freshwater fish
- Lie: A false statement The act of telling something untruthful To be in a horizontal position
- Wind: A movement of air To repeatedly twirl or coil an object
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