Stop Translating Literally: 10 Common Phrases Telugu Speakers Get Wrong in English, in this blog, let’s look at 10 common literal translation mistakes and how to fix them.
As Telugu speakers, we often think in our mother tongue and translate directly into English. While this works for simple sentences, it often leads to “Indianisms” or grammatically awkward phrases that can be confusing in professional settings.
1. “I am wishing to become…”
The Error: In Telugu, we often use the continuous form for desires (nenu doctor avudamani korukuntunnanu).
The Fix: Use the simple present. “I wish to become a doctor.”
2. “He is my cousin brother”
The Error: Telugu distinguishes between annayya (brother) and bava (cousin), so we add “brother” or “sister.”
The Fix: In English, “Cousin” is gender-neutral and sufficient. “He is my cousin.”
3. “Small-small mistakes”
The Error: Reduplication (repeating words for emphasis) is common in Telugu (chinna-chinna).
The Fix: Use an intensive adjective instead. “Minor mistakes” or “Very small mistakes.”
4. “I will say you later”
The Error: A literal translation of nenu neeku tharuvatha chepthanu.
The Fix: Use ‘tell’. “I will tell you later.” (Remember: You say something, but you tell someone).
5. “Why you are going?”
The Error: Telugu word order doesn’t always require the verb to jump before the subject in questions.
The Fix: “Why are you going?” (The auxiliary verb must come before the subject).
6. “I came by walk”
The Error: Translating nadichikuntu vachanu.
The Fix: “I came on foot” or “I walked.”
Stop Translating Literally | How to Improve
To stop literal translation, start listening to English podcasts or watching news. Focus on “Collocations”—words that naturally go together in English rather than individual word meanings.
