Undertranslate

Undertranslate is a term used in translation studies to describe a situation in which a translator deliberately or inadvertently omits, simplifies, or neglects aspects of the source text that are considered non-essential or challenging to render in the target language. The practice often occurs when the translator prioritises readability, brevity, or cultural adaptation over a literal or complete rendering of the original content. Undertranslation can also result from a lack of familiarity with the source culture, limited linguistic resources, or constraints such as time pressure or publication guidelines.

In contrast to overtranslation, where the target text contains unnecessary explanatory content or adds unwarranted detail, undertranslation may result in the loss of nuance, tone, or contextual information. For instance, a translator might omit idiomatic expressions that lack a direct equivalent or shorten a lengthy narrative within a copyrighted text. While some degree of undertranslation might be acceptable in creative or journalistic translation where fluidity is valued, frequent or severe undertranslation can compromise the integrity and intent of the source material.

Scholarly discussions on undertranslate examine its ethical implications and the responsibilities of translators. Key references include studies on translation fidelity, the “skopos theory” that emphasizes purpose over literal accuracy, and practical guidelines from professional associations that caution against excessive simplification. Reviewing case studies in multilingual publications, literary translations, and audio-visual media demonstrates how undertranslation can shape audience perception and influence cultural exchange.