Word Evolution and the Importance of Context in Translation

Language changes and evolves every day. It shifts through generations, with new technologies and inventions, and through cultural exchanges.?

For a translator, it's important to be up to date with word evolution to know the different meanings a word can have in various contexts.?

We’ll share with you some of the English words that have evolved and gained new meanings, thanks to emerging technologies and new generations adding their fresh twist to the language!?

Negative Words That Now Have Positive Connotations?

Some words like “sick” and “wicked” have taken new positive connotations, now used to describe something that’s cool or impressive.?

“Savage” describes someone who’s done something brave and admirable.?

And in slang, to “slay” doesn’t mean you’ll kill someone—thankfully—but to highly impress.?

Words That Are No Longer in Use?

Unless used ironically, “spinster” is not really in common usage. An unmarried woman is simply “single.”

Even though millennials witnessed the peak use of words like “floppy disk,” “iPod,” and “selfie stick,” these terms are fading along with the inventions they describe.

Words in Use Because of Technology?

“Unfriend” once referred to an enemy, but now it means to remove someone from your social media platform.

“Reel,” which once referred to the cylinder on which film was rolled, now refers to short videos on Instagram.?

“Instaworthy” describes a picture that’s good enough to post on social media, while to “Venmo” someone means to transfer money via an app of the same name. You’ll be familiar with these terms if you’re “chronically online” (i.e., spending too much time on the Internet).

?? Conclusion

Language is constantly evolving. Knowing how words evolve and the different meanings they can take over time is crucial for a translator.

Context plays a major role in how a translation should be approached. Is the context formal and traditional, or informal and geared toward young, Internet-savvy users?

The answers to these questions will shape how text is translated.

bayantech’s translators are professional linguists, always up to date with language trends and changes, whether it's general terms or industry-specific language.?

Reach out to us for your next project: https://bayan-tech.com/

And share with us more examples of word evolution in the comments!?