Calque definitions
| Word backwards | euqlac |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | noun |
| Syllabic division | The syllable separation of the word "calque" is cal-que. |
| Plural | The plural of the word calque is calques. |
| Total letters | 6 |
| Vogais (3) | a,u,e |
| Consonants (3) | c,l,q |
Calque is a linguistic term that refers to the borrowing of a phrase or expression from one language into another by way of literal translation. This process involves taking each individual word in the original phrase and translating it into the corresponding word in the target language. As a result, the calqued phrase may not always make sense or be idiomatic in the new language, as it preserves the syntax and word order of the original. This borrowing technique can lead to interesting linguistic phenomena and reveal cultural differences in language use.
Origin and Examples of Calques
The term "calque" comes from the French word meaning "copy" or "tracing." Calques can be found in many languages around the world, often as a result of cultural contact, historical influences, or the adoption of new concepts or technologies. For example, the English term "loanword" is a calque of the German word "Lehnwort." Another common example is the English phrase "toothpaste," which is a calque of the French "dentifrice."
Impact on Language and Communication
Calques can have both positive and negative impacts on language and communication. On the positive side, they can enrich a language by introducing new vocabulary and expressions. They can also help speakers of different languages understand each other by providing literal translations of unfamiliar terms. However, calques can also lead to confusion or miscommunication when the literal translation does not accurately convey the intended meaning or cultural connotations of the original phrase.
Challenges and Considerations
Translators and language learners often encounter challenges when dealing with calques. It is important to be aware of the cultural context and implications of a phrase before using a calque, as it may not always be appropriate or accurate. Additionally, calques can be difficult to spot or translate, especially if they are deeply entrenched in the vocabulary of a language. Careful consideration and research are necessary to ensure that a calque is used correctly and effectively in communication.
In conclusion, calques play a significant role in language borrowing and translation, offering insights into the interconnectedness of different languages and cultures. By understanding the origins and implications of calques, we can navigate the complexities of multilingual communication more effectively and appreciate the diversity of linguistic expression.
Calque Examples
- The word "skyscraper" is a calque from the French word "gratte-ciel."
- The term "brainwashing" is a calque of the Chinese phrase "xi nao," meaning to wash the brain.
- The expression "lost in translation" is a calque from the French phrase "perdu dans la traduction."
- The phrase "beer garden" is a calque of the German term "Biergarten."
- The word "sunglasses" is a calque from the German word "sonnenbrille."
- The term "power plant" is a calque of the French phrase "centrale électrique."
- The expression "flea market" is a calque from the French term "marché aux puces."
- The word "honeymoon" is a calque from the French phrase "lune de miel."
- The term "literally translated" is a calque of the Latin phrase "verbum verbo expressum."
- The phrase "cannon fodder" is a calque from the French term "chair à canon."