loan translation

noun

1. the process whereby a compound word or expression is created by literal translation of each of the elements of a compound word or expression in another language, as marriage of convenience from French mariage de convenance.
2. a word or expression so created.

loan translation

noun

1. the adoption by one language of a phrase or compound word whose components are literal translations of the components of a corresponding phrase or compound in a foreign language Also calledcalque

   English "superman" is a loan translation from German "Übermensch."

Word History and Origins

Origin of loan translation¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

“Thanks God,” a type of loan translation from “gracias a Dios,” is common in Miami.

From Scientific American