Most prepositions in English have rich meanings; a specific preposition may have different meaning and usage. When dealing with prepositions accept fixed phases, we need to base on its basic meaning, and handle it according to the context. Following are some translation skills common to use.

1. Translate into verb

In English, prepositions are usually used to express an action. Under this circumstances, we can translate English preposition into verb.

The truck was totally out of control and drove straight into another car.

卡车完全失去控制，径直撞向另一辆车。

Eventhough, it is too small to be seen with the best optical microscope.

即使用最好的光学显微镜，也看不见它们。

2. Adding in Translation

Adding is not creating something out of nothing. But to add proper expression according to the verb or adjective combined with the preposition. In many situations, the combined verb or adjective is omitted. If we translate with the same structure, it is difficult to express clearly or even cause misunderstanding. Then, adding is needed.

For example:

There are two bookstores in the corner. One is on the right, the other is on the left.

街角处有两家书店，一家位于右侧，一家位于左侧。

3. Points translation

When prepositional phrase is used as attribute, it is always a short form of preposition clause. When prepositional phrase is used as adverbial, it is sometimes the short form of adverbial clause. In such situations, points translation can be adopted.

We cannot use this machine any more for its serious failure.

因为严重故障，这部机器再也不能使用了。

With many shortcomings, Benjamin is considered to be a good-natured person.

尽管有很多缺点，但本杰明仍被认为是一个心地善良的人。

Read Also: English Basic Sentences and Translation

4. Omitting in translation

Omitting in translation is based on precise representation of the original meaning, in order to make translation concise and accord with Chinese expression.

Some English prepositions indicating time or place. When translation into Chinese, it is in the beginning of the sentence. In such situation, it can be omitted.

There are 27 students in Class One.

一班有 27 个学生。

High buildings and large mansions have been built in my hometown.

我的家乡已建起了高楼大厦。

5. Reverse translation

In some situation, prepositions need to be translated in the opposite viewpoint. Otherwise it is difficult to make the translation fluent. Then, reverse translation is necessary.

Copper is the best conductor but silver．

铜是仅次于银的最优导体。

There are some points of view against the suspended sentence of that criminal.

一些观点不同意对该名罪犯缓刑。

None word can be translated breaking away from the context. No context, no meaning at all. When translating prepositions, one need to take overall consideration of the collocated words, and avoiding word for word translation.

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