Interlinear - a slang word, slang. It can often be heard among schoolchildren or students, in circles close to the library or book sphere in general. What is the meaning? Let's try to find out.
Meaning 1. Reference (footnote)
To begin with, it is worth noting that this word has several meanings. Let's start with not the most popular: an interlinear is one of the types of bibliographic (sometimes other) references in the literature. In addition to inline, there are some others.
The ones in question are called footnotes, more colloquially known as "footnotes". Such links are usually located at the end of the page under the line.
Meaning 2. Type of transfer
The most common meaning of the word "interlinear" in a different context: when we are talking about the type of translation, or about the text translated in this way. In this case, under each line or under each word in a foreign language, there is a corresponding translation in Russian (or any other target language).
Pros and cons of interlinear translation
Undoubtedly, if the creators of the translation prefer thistype of work, you should know that it has its own specifics, its own characteristics of perception. However, it is still quite unpopular, which means it has its drawbacks.
Of the positive qualities, it is worth noting that in such a translation, trying to most accurately convey the meaning of the source text being processed, one should be very attentive to details, because the author of the translation will no longer be able to miss an uncomfortable, unacceptable word.
In addition, such a translation is in many ways convenient and useful for beginners to learn the language: this way, many words are easier to remember, and the meaning of the text is clear in parallel with reading it.
One of the downsides is that many of the aesthetic qualities of the original are lost in such a translation. For example, when translating a poetic text in an artistic way, you can still try to preserve the rhyme and meter. And in prose works, it is sometimes possible to catch a certain rhythm that should be conveyed in foreign language adaptations.
However, the interlinear is what strictly deprives us of such an opportunity: any rhyme will be completely lost. The translation of an idiom, any figurative, metaphorical expression, also seems doubtful. For example, the phrases “on this (deed) to eat a dog”, “beat the buckets” when literally translated into English or German will not be understood by native speakers of these languages.
