Mistranslated

To mistranslate means to render something, usually written or spoken text, incorrectly from one language into another. This can result from a misunderstanding of the original text's meaning, a lack of proficiency in the source or target language, or simply a clerical error. Mistranslations can vary in severity, ranging from minor inaccuracies that don't significantly alter the overall message to more substantial distortions that completely change the meaning or intent of the original. The consequences of mistranslation can be significant, potentially leading to miscommunication, misunderstandings, legal disputes, or even diplomatic incidents. Therefore, accuracy is paramount in the translation process.

Mistranslated meaning with examples

• The technical manual, unfortunately, contained several sections that were severely mistranslated, leading to confusion amongst the engineering team about the assembly process. Many were frustrated. The original text was clear, but the translation had introduced ambiguities, making the instructions difficult to follow. They needed to review the documents.
• During the negotiation, the contract was mistranslated. The clause about termination conditions, crucial for both parties, was rendered in such a way that it no longer protected their needs. Because of that error, one party ended up being left with nothing. The lawyer was mortified.
• The ancient inscription was painstakingly deciphered, but portions were later identified as mistranslated. The original intent of the message and it's meaning were now unclear. Revised scholarship and archaeology was required. Now they needed to re-examine the remaining portions and update the prior work.
• The marketing slogan was mistranslated, resulting in an unintentionally humorous and embarrassing campaign. The slogan was intended to convey sophistication, but ended up meaning something completely different to native speakers in the target country. Ultimately they had to pull the product campaign.