translate what

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "translate what" is not correct and lacks clarity in written English.
It may be used when asking someone to convert or interpret specific information, but it requires additional context to be meaningful. Example: "Can you translate what he said into simpler terms?"

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The translation feature – which translate what you're writing into another language – appears to be missing at launch, however.

TechCrunch

I translate what little I can, it's embarrassing.

The New Yorker

"We amplify, contextualize and translate what these conversations are and why they are relevant".

The New York Times

I want teachers who are smart, and who can translate what they know for the class.

The New York Times

Still, Mr. Cardoz never stopped thinking of fresh ways to translate what he was eating.

The New York Times - Food

"I don't know how to translate what I see in paintings into words," Banville added.

The New Yorker

"I would really like you to just translate what he's saying," he said.

The New York Times

"I like to translate what I find the most seductive about my subject.

The New York Times - Food

"When a culture is self-confident, it can translate what the rest of the world wants".

The New York Times

I hear music in my head and would love to translate what I hear.

The Guardian

But who are we to translate what the all-powerful running back is really thinking?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "translate what", ensure you provide enough context to clarify what you are translating. For example, specify the language or the level of detail needed in the translation.

Common error

Avoid using "translate what" without specifying the subject or context. Instead of saying "Can you translate what he said?", specify "Can you translate what he said into simpler terms?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "translate what" functions primarily as a verb phrase requiring a direct object for completion. It denotes the action of converting or interpreting something. As Ludwig AI notes, additional context is necessary for meaningful usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

12%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "translate what" is frequently used across diverse contexts, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable and often needing additional context for clarity. Its function is to request the conversion or interpretation of information. Although it appears frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business settings, providing specific context or opting for alternatives like "interpret what" or "explain what" can enhance clarity and grammatical accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interpret what

This alternative uses a more direct and commonly accepted verb for understanding and conveying meaning.

convert what

This suggests changing something into a different form, which can be applicable depending on the context.

decipher what

This implies unraveling something complex or obscure to understand its meaning.

explain what

This focuses on making something clear or understandable.

rephrase what

This means expressing something in a different way, typically for clarity.

summarize what

This involves providing a concise overview of the key points.

decode what

This refers to converting a code or message into understandable language.

render what

This means to express or perform something.

clarify what

This focuses on making something easier to understand by providing more detail or context.

illuminate what

This suggests shedding light on something to make it more understandable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the expression "translate what"?

Consider using alternatives like "interpret what", "explain what", or "rephrase what" to improve clarity and grammatical correctness.

Is "translate what" grammatically correct?

While frequently used, "translate what" is often considered grammatically ambiguous. It's better to provide additional context or use clearer alternatives.

What's a more formal way to say "translate what"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "interpret the meaning of", "convert the information from", or "elucidate the content of".

When is it appropriate to use "translate what"?

It's appropriate when the context is clear and the audience understands that you are asking for an interpretation or conversion of information. However, for maximum clarity, consider alternatives.