Tradurre è tradire
Translating is about communicating and involves much more than simply substituting the words or sentences of one language for those of another. A good translator is able to convey the substance and message of the source text in the target language with exactly the same meaning and nuances. When this doesn't happen as it should, all kinds of undesirable consequences may result. According to an Italian saying, tradurre è tradire, or 'translation is treason'. Good translators distinguish themselves by averting such treason.
Different languages represent different cultures that are mutually divergent, sometimes in subtle ways. For this reason, it is important that translators not only understand the source language but also be well acquainted with the customs of, and current developments in, the country in which the target language is spoken. Only then can they convey the same message - be it explicit or implied - in the translation.
