Translating existing material helps build vocabulary, sentence structures, and consider cultural context.
Prioritizing meaning over literal translation allows for natural and nuanced expressions in conlangs.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Translating in Conlanging
Translating existing material in conlanging can provide diverse vocabulary, prevent repetition, and build lexicon and sentence structures. By translating, you can use more interesting and natural examples that demonstrate the intended meaning, rather than relying on stilted or confusing sentences. Translating also allows you to consider cultural context and adapt the language accordingly. It is a long-term process that can be started with simple sentences and gradually progress to larger texts.
The Importance of Meaning over Word Translation
When translating, prioritizing the meaning and concept of a sentence rather than literal word-for-word translation is crucial. This approach ensures that the conlang accurately conveys the intended message and avoids creating translations that are too similar to English or rely on specific cultural references. By focusing on the meaning, conlangers can develop more natural and nuanced expressions in their language.
Expanding the Conlang Through Translation
Translation serves as an effective way to expand the conlang's vocabulary and grammar. It allows conlangers to work on syntax, idiomatic expressions, cultural translations, and discourse markers. While traditional stories, such as fables and religious texts, serve as common translation materials, comic strips, newspapers, or contemporary texts can also be valuable resources. Incorporating metaphors, idioms, and aphorisms can add richness to the language and provide challenges for expression.
Keeping a Notebook and Revising Translations
Carrying a small notebook for recording translation ideas and inspirations is highly recommended. Ideas for translating or improving the conlang often come at unexpected moments, and having a notebook ensures they aren't forgotten. Additionally, revising translations is encouraged, allowing conlangers to refine expressions, adjust cultural context, and improve overall coherence within the language.
Today we tell you some techniques for using translations to flesh out your conlang. Top of Show Greeting: Pahran (George’s work-in-progress conlang) Links and Resources: Conlang Syntax Tests Aesop’s Fables (online collection)
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