be lost in translation

be lost in translation

Of a word or words, to lose the full subtlety of meaning or significance when translated from one language to another, especially when done literally. My friend tried explaining a few French idioms to me, but I'm afraid they were lost in translation. It's amazing how much is lost in translation in the subtitles of foreign films.
See also: lost, translation
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • get lost in translation
  • translation
  • lost in translation
  • literally
  • casu consulto
  • mi casa(,) (es) su casa
  • sang froid
  • white marriage
  • Erin go Bragh