Translation problems: the most common issues translators face

Translation requires more than swapping words between languages. It demands an understanding of grammar, culture, and nuance that goes far beyond dictionaries or literal meanings. Even expert linguists face complex translation problems that test both skill and creativity.

Key takeaways:

• Translation problems often stem from differences in language structure, idioms, and cultural references.
• Grammar, tone, and meaning rarely align perfectly between languages.
• Some translation issues can be reduced through clear source text and consistent style guides.
• Machine translation struggles most with idioms, sarcasm, and context-dependent phrases.
• Skilled translators use linguistic expertise and cultural knowledge to solve these challenges effectively.

Translation problems with language structure

Every language follows its own rules and word order, which can cause translation issues when switching between systems.

In English, a sentence typically follows a subject-verb-object structure: “She eats pizza.” But Farsi uses subject-object-verb, and in Arabic, subject pronouns are built into the verb itself. Translators must often rearrange, add, or remove words to keep sentences natural in the target language. These structural differences are one of the most common translation problems professionals encounter.

Translation issues with idioms and expressions

Idioms are among the hardest elements to translate. Their meanings can’t be understood literally, which makes them a constant source of translation problems.

Phrases like “kick the bucket” or “piece of cake” don’t make sense outside their cultural context. Machine translation engines often fail to handle them correctly, and even human translators need deep cultural fluency to find equivalent expressions. To avoid these translation issues, source content should use idioms sparingly, or translators should be chosen for their familiarity with the target culture.

Translation problems with compound words

Compound words—two or more words combined into one meaning—can lead to subtle translation issues.

Some compounds, like “airport” or “crosswalk,” translate easily. Others, like “bookworm,” blend literal and figurative meanings. And then there are words such as “deadline” or “butterfly,” whose meanings have nothing to do with the original components. Translators must recognize when a compound word is logical, semi-literal, or purely idiomatic to avoid confusion and preserve meaning.

Translation issues caused by missing words or names

Not every language has an exact match for every concept. This gap often creates translation problems known as lexical gaps.

For example, English uses “guest room,” while Greek expresses the same idea with a single word (“ksnona”), and Italian requires three (“camera per gli ospiti”). These differences show how translation often requires localization—adapting expressions, not just translating words—to keep meaning intact.

For more on how localization connects culture and context, check out Smartling’s article on how to develop a localization strategy.

Translation problems with two-word verbs

English is full of two-word verbs like “look up,” “fill out,” and “break down.” Each carries a unique meaning that doesn’t come from its parts alone.

Translators need to interpret the full phrase rather than translate each word separately. Otherwise, the result may sound unnatural or confusing in the target language. This is another everyday translation issue that highlights the importance of context over literal accuracy.

Translation issues with multiple meanings

Words with multiple meanings create some of the trickiest translation problems.

A single term can have different definitions depending on how it’s used. Homonyms like “scale” (to weigh vs. to climb) and heteronyms like “windy” (the road vs. the day) illustrate how pronunciation and meaning shift. Translators must rely on context to determine which sense is correct and ensure the target language reflects it accurately.

Maintaining tone and consistency across translations

Keeping a consistent brand tone across languages is one of the most challenging translation problems for global companies.

Localization style guides and glossaries help maintain the same tone, terminology, and voice in every language. These resources ensure that translators and translation software preserve brand identity, regardless of region or language.

Smartling’s free localization style guide template provides you with step-by-step instructions on creating your style guide to help you maintain consistency across any language. 

Translation problems with sarcasm

Sarcasm rarely translates cleanly. Its meaning depends heavily on tone and context, which can easily be lost or misinterpreted.

Literal translation often turns sarcasm into confusion or even offense. Ideally, sarcasm should be removed before translation. But if it’s essential to the text, translators should be briefed so they can suggest a local equivalent that conveys the same humor or tone.

Reagan White

Localization Expert

Reagan White is a localization expert with experience helping global brands streamline translation workflows and scale multilingual content. With a background in translation technology and international content strategy, she writes about localization automation, AI translation, and best practices for building efficient global operations.