Journal of Languages and Translation
Volume 6, Numéro 1, Pages 245-256
2026-01-01

Understanding The Challenges And Difficulties Of English-arabic Idiom Translation: Insights From Students



Authors : Ennebati Fatima Zohra .

Abstract

The translation of idiomatic expressions from English to Arabic presents significant challenges for translation students due to linguistic, cultural, and contextual differences. This study explores these difficulties through a survey conducted with 50 translation students, assessing their ability to understand and translate idioms effectively. The research examines students' confidence in handling idioms, their exposure to idiomatic expressions, and the main obstacles they encounter in translation. Findings reveal that while students frequently encounter idioms in their studies, many struggle with their figurative meanings and cultural nuances. The survey results highlight that 80% of students find it difficult to locate equivalent Arabic idioms, and 70% face challenges in conveying cultural context. Additionally, when translating idioms in context, students demonstrated varying levels of accuracy, with well-known idioms being translated more successfully than unfamiliar ones. The study also underscores the impact of context in aiding comprehension and the tendency of students to rely on literal translation when they lack cultural familiarity with an idiom. Based on these findings, the paper emphasizes the need for improved pedagogical strategies, such as integrating idiom-focused training, enhancing cultural awareness, and encouraging flexible translation techniques. Strengthening students’ ability to recognize and adapt idioms will contribute to their overall proficiency in translation and bridge the gap between linguistic accuracy and cultural appropriateness. Keywords; Cultural Equivalence - English-Arabic Translation -Idiom Translation- Translation Challenges- Translation Students

Keywords

Cultural equivalece ; English-Arabic translation ; Idiom Translation ; Translation challenges ; Translation students

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