Definition
- C2
Using the exact same words as were originally spoken or written.
She listened carefully to everything I said and repeated it word for word to her mother.
He was able to recite the entire speech word for word.
This report must be translated word for word to ensure all details are conveyed accurately.
Translating text by changing one word at a time, rather than in phrases or larger meaningful units.
Translating word for word can lead to unclear semantics because it ignores idioms and expressions.
When translating poetry, a word-for-word translation often loses its beauty and rhythm.
This translation sounds awkward because it is a word-for-word translation.