Translation of Idiomatic Expressions from Arabic into English using AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Abstract

Translation entails conversion of words from SL (Source Language) to TL (Target Language) that includes form, meaning, context, culture and expression. Idiom is a multiword expression and its meaning cannot be translated verbatim because idioms are fixed non-compositional expressions that belong to the intersection between language and culture. This makes the translation tricky as there can be a number of options available as meanings for every idiom that is translated into the target language. The precise translation of the idiom is possible if there is an equivalent in the target language but when the equivalent idiom is not available in the target language it has to be paraphrased in such a manner using certain strategies so that the meaning is clear while at the same time the translation should not affect the cultural aspects that play an important role. Therefore, translation of idioms from the source language to the target language must take into consideration the cultures of both languages. In this paper, suggestions are given on how Arabic idioms can be translated into English.