Session 3, Activity 5 (French)
Activity 5 French – understanding signage
Follow the five steps below.
Step 1
Read the phrases used in French signage below and input them into OMT for an English translation.
- Accès interdit
- Défense de fumer
- Interdit aux chiens
- Sortie de secours
- Interdit de marcher sur l'herbe
- Réservé au personnel
- En travaux
- Interdit de stationner
Step 2
Read the English translations. Can you work out the meaning from the literal translation?
Step 3
Why do you think the literal translation may not convey the intended meaning? How do authentic pragmatic expressions differ from literal translations?
Step 4
Find the corresponding phrases used in English signage and input them into OMT.
Step 5
Compare the translations. What are the differences between the literal and idiomatic translations? Why, therefore, is cultural context important?
Discussion
Below are the translations:
- Accès interdit – No entry
- Défense de fumer – No smoking
- Interdit aux chiens – No dogs allowed
- Sortie de secours – Emergency exit
- Interdit de marcher sur l'herbe – Keep off the grass
- Réservé au personnel – Staff only
- En travaux – Under construction
- Interdit de stationner – No parking
Using OMT helps to highlight the differences between literal and idiomatic translations, making the learning experience both educational and enjoyable.
By engaging in this activity, you can gain a deeper understanding of French signage, their meanings, and perhaps the cultural context behind them. Overall, this and similar activities enhance cultural awareness. They also improve vocabulary.
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