"can be translated into" vs "can translate into"

Question

"can be translated into" vs "can translate into"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Can translate into' is used when talking about the ability of someone or something to perform the action of translating into another language. 'Can be translated into' is used when referring to the possibility of a specific text or content being translated into another language.

Last Updated: April 07, 2024

This phrase is used to discuss the potential for a particular text or content to undergo translation into another language.

Examples:

The document can be translated into Spanish upon request.
This book can be translated into Chinese for a wider audience.
The poem can be translated into various languages to reach a global audience.

Alternatives:

is translatable into
has the potential to be translated into

This phrase is used to indicate the capability of a person or a system to convert text or content into another language.

Examples:

She can translate into multiple languages effortlessly.
The software can translate into over 50 languages.
His skills can translate into great opportunities abroad.

Alternatives:

is able to translate into
has the ability to translate into

Answer 1

can be translated into

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to the possibility of a specific text or content being translated into another language.

Answer 2

can translate into

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to the ability of someone or something to perform the action of translating into another language.