Tra
nslation: A Look into Cold Knowledge on Translation As a translator, we often come across phrases or vocabulary that doesn't seem to make sense at first glance. However, upon further research, we may discover some interesting insights and hidden meanings behind these seemingly odd language choices. Here are some examples of "cold knowledge" in translation:
1. "The cat is out of the bag" - This phrase is commonly used to describe a secret that has been exposed. However, the origins of this phrase are murky. Some speculate that it comes from times when farmers would sell live pigs in bags. Dishonest farmers would sometimes swap out a cheaper animal, such as a cat, for a more expensive pig. If the buyer didn't check the bag before purchasing, "the cat would be out of the bag" and the fraud would be revealed.
2. "Bite the bullet" - This phrase is used to describe a situation where one must endure an unpleasant or difficult experience. The origins of this phrase come from the days before modern anesthesia, when soldiers would bite down on a bullet during surgery to numb the pain.
3. "No dice" - This phrase is used to mean "no success" or "unsuccessful." The origins of this phrase come from gambling, where dice are used to determine the outcome of a bet. If someone says "no dice," it means they were unsuccessful in their bet and did not win.
4. "Butterflies in my stomach" - This phrase is commonly used to describe nerves or anxiety. The origins of this phrase come from the feeling of "butterflies" or "fluttering" in one's stomach during times of stress or excitement.
5. "Throw in the towel" - This phrase is used to mean "give up" or "admit defeat." The origins of this phrase come from boxing, where a fighter's corner would literally throw in a towel to indicate that the fighter was no longer able to continue fighting. These are just a few examples of the "cold knowledge" that can be discovered in translation. As translators, it is important to not only know the literal translation of phrases and vocabulary, but also to understand their origins and cultural significance. By delving deeper into the meanings behind language choices, we can better understand and convey the subtleties of communication.