StringTable

StringTable is a data organization used in software localization to store human-readable text strings. It maps unique string identifiers, or keys, to translated text values for one or more languages, enabling translators to work independently of source code. In many implementations, a string table is associated with a specific language, with multiple entries providing the localized strings for a user interface, messages, or content.

The structure of a string table varies by platform. Some systems contain a single table with multiple language columns, while others keep separate files or assets per language. Keys are designed to be language-agnostic and stable across releases, while values are the localized strings. Strings may include placeholders for runtime formatting, such as {name} or {0}, which must be preserved in translations.

String tables support localization workflows by decoupling text from application logic. They are edited by localization teams, integrated with version control, and often exported or imported via standard formats such as JSON, XML, CSV, or engine-specific asset formats. At runtime, software loads the appropriate string table for the current locale; if a translation is missing, a fallback language is used.

Common examples appear in game engines and development frameworks. Unreal Engine uses dedicated String Table assets to store keys and per-language values, while Unity’s Localization package provides StringTable assets grouped by language. These tables also support conventions for plurals, context, and notes to aid translators.

See also: localization, internationalization, resource files, message catalogs.