The literal translation of a word or phrase is the most important aspect of a definition.

Answer 1

Hi Ajayla!

Translating can be useful when you're first being exposed to a new language. However, I try as much as possible to use the target language with my students in order to help them think, respond, and form ideas in the target language. Many words and phrases also cannot be literally translated. For example, in Spanish "Apapachar" is a word that is difficult to translate to English and some would argue does not exist in English. Other examples of this are "Te quiero" and "la madrugada". So to sum things up, yes a literal translation may help you when you are first being exposed to the target language. However, it's best to try and understand new words and phrases using definitions from the target language.

I hope this was helpful (:

Cayla

Answer 2

The literal translation of a word is very important, as it can help you associate the word in your 2nd language with a word in your 1st language. However, it is equally important to understand the complexity of language, and the fact that not all words will have a literal translation, such as idioms. Idioms need context, and a longer explanation to be understood, and I would consider that just as important as a literal translation. With language, it is important to associate words with context so that the words that you are learning are not isolated. Your brain needs to begin to make connections as you learn new words so that your 2nd language becomes a web, rather than singular, floating words.