Why False Friends Are a Translator’s Hidden Trap
False friends, or faux amis, are words that look or sound similar in two languages but have different meanings. For translators working between French and English, these deceptive similarities can lead to costly mistakes, affecting everything from legal contracts to marketing campaigns. Understanding and anticipating these linguistic pitfalls is crucial for ensuring accuracy and professionalism.
The Most Treacherous False Friends in French and English
Embarrassment or Pregnancy? The Risk of “Embarassé”
One of the most notorious false friends is “embarassé” in French, which does not mean “embarrassed” in English. Instead, it typically means “bothered” or “inconvenienced.” The correct French translation for “embarrassed” is “gêné.”
Consider the implications of a mistranslation in a professional setting. A doctor reading a poorly translated patient form might assume that a patient is pregnant rather than simply uncomfortable—potentially leading to medical confusion or even malpractice.
A Library or a Bookstore? The “Librairie” Dilemma
In English, a “library” is a place where people borrow books for free. However, in French, “librairie” refers to a bookstore. If a French-speaking client asks a translator to direct them to the “library” and is mistakenly sent to a “librairie,” they may find themselves expected to purchase books instead of borrowing them.
“Actuellement” Does Not Mean “Actually”
A common mistake among beginner translators is interpreting “actuellement” as “actually.” In reality, “actuellement” means “currently” or “at present.” The English “actually” translates to “en réalité” or “vraiment” in French.
Misusing this term in business communication can cause confusion. Imagine a company stating that they “are actually the market leader” when they meant “are currently the market leader”—this could mislead clients and damage credibility.
False Friends in Legal and Financial Translations
“Location” – Renting or Finding a Place?
In English, “location” refers to a place. However, in French, “location” means “rental.” The correct translation for the English word “location” would be “emplacement” or “lieu.” This misunderstanding can cause serious errors in real estate contracts or legal agreements.
“Affaires” – Business or Personal Belongings?
The French word “affaires” can mean “business” but often refers to personal belongings. If a contract refers to “affaires personnelles,” it means “personal belongings,” not “personal business.” A mistranslation in a legal document could lead to significant financial consequences.
Marketing Blunders Caused by False Friends
“Sensible” and “Sensitive” – A Dangerous Mix-Up
In French, “sensible” means “sensitive” in English, while the English “sensible” translates to “raisonnable.” A mistranslation of “sensible data” as “données sensibles” might be correct in some contexts, but not in cases where “sensible” means “logical” rather than “sensitive.”
For businesses handling confidential information, this mistake could result in serious data security breaches.
“Assister” – Attending or Helping?
The French verb “assister” means “to attend,” whereas the English “assist” means “to help.” This can create major confusion in corporate settings. If an employee is told they are expected to “assist” a meeting, they might prepare to provide help rather than simply attend.
How to Avoid Costly False Friend Mistakes
- Double-check translations: Always verify that words with similar spellings carry the intended meaning.
- Understand context: Words can have multiple meanings depending on the situation. Never translate in isolation.
- Use dictionaries and glossaries: Professional translation tools provide accurate definitions and usage examples.
- Consult native speakers: If uncertain, asking a native speaker can prevent misunderstandings.
- Stay updated: Language evolves, and staying informed helps avoid outdated translations.
Final Thoughts
False friends between French and English can lead to costly mistakes in professional, legal, and marketing translations. By being aware of these deceptive words and adopting careful translation strategies, linguists can ensure accuracy and professionalism. Mastering the nuances of both languages is the key to avoiding these common pitfalls.
