LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 26:3 March 2026
ISSN 1930-2940

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Negotiating Meaning Across Cultures: A Corpus-Based Study of English-Hindi Idiomatic Expressions

Ayesha Siddique

Abstract

This research paper delves into the complexities of translating idiomatic expressions across English and Hindi, two linguistically and culturally distinct languages. Idioms, with their figurative meanings and cultural nuances, present significant challenges in translation, often leading to loss of meaning or cultural misinterpretation. This study explores how cultural differences influence the translation process and examines strategies employed to address these challenges. Through a comparative analysis of selected idiomatic expressions in both languages, the paper highlights issues such as the lack of direct equivalents, cultural references, and the impact of these factors on effective communication. By analysing both literal and adapted translations, the research provides insights into the effectiveness of various translation strategies, including adaptation, explanation, and localization. The study also considers the role of cultural context in shaping idiomatic expressions and discusses implications for translators working in cross-cultural settings. The findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection between language and culture in translation practices, offering practical recommendations for achieving more accurate and culturally sensitive translations.

Keywords: Idiomatic Translation, Cultural Differences, Translation Strategies, English–Hindi Comparative Analysis, Cross-Cultural Communication

Introduction

Idioms are fixed expressions or phrases whose meaning isn't immediately obvious from the individual words. They often have a figurative meaning that's different from their literal interpretation. Idioms are a way to convey complex ideas or emotions concisely and often reflect cultural context, values, social norms, shared experiences and references. They're commonly used in everyday language, literature, and informal speech. Literal translations of idioms can sometimes lead to confusion or misunderstanding.

For example, English Idiom: “Throw in the towel” – To give up or admit defeat. Literal Hindi Translation: (/?a?t??k???e? k?rna?/) – To raise one's hands. Hindi Idiom: – To raise one's hands to surrender/ admit defeat.

The idiom "throw in the towel" originates from the sport of boxing. In boxing, when a trainer or a fighter wants to concede defeat, they throw a towel into the ring as a signal to the referee and the audience that they are surrendering or that the fighter can no longer continue the match. The metaphorical use of the phrase has broadened to mean giving up or admitting defeat in any context, not just in sports. So, when someone "throws in the towel," they are choosing to stop trying or resign from a situation.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Ayesha Siddique
Research Scholar, Department of Linguistics,
University of Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – 226007 India
alishakhan1411@gmail.com

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