Activity Title: Discussing Translation and its Impact on Cross-Cultural Communication
Location and Date: Shatt Al-Arab University – Campus 2 – Hall 26 – Monday, December 4, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM
Organization: Translation Department – College of Arts – Shatt Al-Arab University
Lecturer: Assistant Lecturer Sarah Azer Naji
Activity Objective: To discuss translation and its impact on cross-cultural communication.
Activity Summary: Translation is not simply transferring words from one language to another; it is a complex process that carries meaning, culture, and context. When we talk about the impact of translation on cross-cultural communication, we are talking about a vital bridge connecting different worlds, but at the same time, it can cause misunderstandings if not used carefully.
Main Topics Presented:
Definition of Translation
The Importance of Translation in the Contemporary World
The Relationship Between Language and Culture
The Role of Translation in Intercultural Communication
The Main Problem or Question
The Difference Between Literal and Cultural (Interpretive) Translation
The Role of the Translator as a Cultural Agent, Not Just a Language Carrier
The Impact of Translation on the Dissemination of World Literature and Thought
Future Prospects for Translation, Artificial Intelligence, and Linguistics
First: Findings
Translation is an essential tool for enhancing communication between peoples and exchanging knowledge and experiences.
Translation is not limited to transferring words; it also involves transferring culture and context, making it a complex process.
There are real difficulties in translating some cultural concepts that have no equivalent in other languages.
Inaccurate translation can lead to misunderstanding or distortion of meaning, and sometimes to the perpetuation of stereotypes.
The translator plays a pivotal role as a cultural mediator who directly influences the quality of communication.
Second: Recommendations
The necessity of training translators in a manner that combines linguistic competence with a deep understanding of culture.
Reliance on contextual translation instead of literal translation, especially in literary and cultural texts.
Promoting awareness of the importance of accurate translation in the media. Education
Participants: (13) — (5 males, 8 females)
Participant Profiles:
Assistant Professor Dr. Aqeel Mohammed Jassim – Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs, College of Arts
Assistant Professor Dr. Fadhil Ismail Khalil – Assistant Dean for Administrative Affairs, College of Arts
Ms. Mona Abdul Abbas Abdul Hassan – Head of the Translation Department
Assistant Professor Dr. Nagham Jaafar Hussein – Head of the English Language Department
Assistant Professor Hashem Katea Lazem
Ms. Hussein Ali Khudair
Ms. Ghosoun Jawad Malbas
Ms. Zuhal Khalid Majeed
Ms. Noor Abdul Karim Azzawi
Ms. Huda Lafteh Awda
Ms. Mohammed Alaa Hussein
Ms. Nada Kadhim Dakhel
Ms. B. Raghad Amer Hassan
Publication Date: 2026/12/8
Participant Evaluation of the Activity:
Participants expressed their appreciation for the comprehensiveness and practical importance of the presented content, and noted the increasing use of Large Language Models (LLMs) in various academic and professional fields.