faithful translation
True linguistic conversion
A faithful translation preserves the meaning, tone, and intent of the original text as closely as possible, prioritizing accuracy over stylistic flourish or readability in the target language.
The term implies loyalty to the source: a faithful translation of Homer renders the Greek without modernizing or softening it.
Contrasts with free or loose translations, which take more liberties for flow or accessibility.
- accurateConforming to fact
- literalMeaning exactly what's said
- word for wordExactly as spoken
- word-for-wordExactly as stated
- preciseExactly correct, no error
true · rendering · interpreter · source · source text · target · target language · fidelity · betrayal · nuance · meaning · original meaning · original · equivalent · bilingual · mother tongue · convey · preserve
faithful translationloose translation
mistranslation · free translation · loose adaptation · paraphrase · dynamic equivalence
faithful translationadaptation
Fitting to new conditions
loose adaptation · reimagining · transcreation · domestication · paraphrase
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