Re: Writing for translation: since/because, over/more than

[Lauren <lauren -at- writeco -dot- net>]

It is a good idea when writing for translation to avoid words with 
multiple meanings. For example, "over" can mean more, preferred, or 
above. Even above can have multiple meanings. Comparisons are also best 
avoided because a correct translation of words may not be a correct 
translation of context.

In some sentences, because and since may be interchangeable in usage but 
their context is different. Since refers to time and because refers to 
cause. If something occurs after something else, either word will work 
in the general sense but further discussion may require clarity to 
establish why one thing occurs after the other. This context may get 
lost in the translation. Therefore, rather than focus on the correct 
word, look to the correct context for using a particular word.

Many years ago, I was taught a rule of thumb for translations that I 
like to use for general word choice. When choosing the right word, 
choose the word with the fewest syllables. I find this rule useful but 
not a substitute for clarity of context.


On 11/23/2019 8:35 AM, Geoff Mann wrote: