Translation between Latin-rooted languages, such as Portuguese and Spanish, may initially seem like a straightforward process due to the structural and lexical similarities shared by both languages. However, the inherent differences in each language, along with regional variations and cultural nuances, make translating from Portuguese to Spanish a complex and challenging task. In this article, we will explore the main obstacles faced by translators and the key strategies for carrying out an accurate and faithful translation.
Similarities and Differences: A Dual Characteristic
Portuguese and Spanish are Romance languages derived from Latin, which means that both share a common grammatical and lexical foundation. This affinity facilitates translation in simple or technical texts where words and expressions tend to coincide. In fact, it is estimated that around 85% of Portuguese vocabulary has a direct equivalent in Spanish, which initially seems like an advantage.
However, this closeness can be both an advantage and a trap due to the so-called “false friends.” These are words that, although written or pronounced similarly in both languages, have completely different meanings. A clear example is the word “pasta”, which in Portuguese means “folder,” while in Spanish it can refer to a mixture of flour and water, commonly used to make dough in cooking. These errors can completely alter the meaning of the translation if careful context analysis is not done.
Another important difference lies in pronunciation and phonetic aspects. Despite sharing a Latin root, Portuguese has nasal sounds and greater phonetic complexity than Spanish. Additionally, the grammatical structures of both languages do not always align. Portuguese has a more frequent use of clitic pronouns (such as “diga-me”) compared to Spanish, which prefers proclitic structures (“dígame”). These details must be considered to avoid a mechanical translation that does not sound natural in the target language.
Common Challenges in Translating from Portuguese to Spanish
1. False Friends: The Silent Enemy
One of the biggest obstacles in translating between Portuguese and Spanish is false friends, that is, words that have a similar form but a different meaning. These words often result from the parallel evolution of both languages from Latin.
Some common examples of false friends include:
- “Embaraçada” (Portuguese), which translates to “confused” or “embarrassed,” but in Spanish it can translate, wrongly, as “pregnant.”
- “Ropa” in Portuguese means “rope,” while in Spanish it refers to “clothing.”
- “Oficina” in Portuguese refers to a “workshop,” while in Spanish it refers to a “place of work.”
To avoid these errors, translators must have a deep command of both languages, enabling them to identify these false friends and, through context analysis, determine their correct meaning in each case.
2. Idiomatic Expressions: The Cultural Challenge
Idiomatic expressions present another major difficulty when translating between closely related languages. Often, idiomatic phrases or proverbs in one language do not have a direct equivalent in the other. Translating an idiomatic expression literally can not only be confusing but also lead to misunderstandings.
For example, the Portuguese expression “fazer vista grossa”, which literally means “make the big view,” translates correctly into Spanish as “hacer la vista gorda” (to turn a blind eye). However, a literal translation without context would make no sense. Phrases like this require a deep understanding of each language’s cultural background.
3. Regional Variations: Diversity in the Lusophone World
Portuguese is not a homogeneous language; there are different regional variants, such as Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese, which show variations in both vocabulary and pronunciation. For example, in Brazil, the word “ônibus” is used to refer to a bus, while in Portugal, it is called “autocarro”. These differences can pose an additional challenge for the translator, who must decide which variant to use depending on the target audience of the translation.
Likewise, some words, while seemingly having the same meaning in both variants, may carry different connotations. This is especially important in cultural, tourism, or literary texts, where precision is essential.
Strategies for an Accurate and Natural Translation
1. Contextualization: The Key to Accuracy
One of the fundamental strategies for achieving an accurate translation from Portuguese to Spanish is contextualization. The translator must clearly understand the text’s context before starting the translation. This includes knowing the tone, the intent, and the target audience. It is necessary not only to translate words but also to convey the message faithfully, respecting the cultural and linguistic subtleties of the target language.
2. Use of Support Tools
Computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, specialized glossaries, and bilingual dictionaries are essential for maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the translation process. These resources allow the translator to consult terms and expressions, as well as store previous translations to avoid inconsistencies.
3. Review and Proofreading: The Final Step
Once the translation is completed, the review phase is essential. A second translator or style editor can detect errors, inconsistencies, or translations that do not sound natural. This step ensures that the final translation is faithful, fluid, and appropriate for the target audience.
Conclusion
Translating from Portuguese to Spanish is a complex task that, despite the similarities between both languages, requires advanced linguistic skills and a deep understanding of cultural and regional particularities. False friends, idiomatic expressions, and regional variations challenge translators to use precise strategies. They work to preserve the original message faithfully and naturally in the target language. As the world becomes more globalized, the translator’s role becomes more crucial than ever, serving as a bridge between cultures and facilitating communication in a multilingual society.
