ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Cultural translation

Cultural translation is when people from different cultures try to understand each other's traditions, beliefs, and customs. Just like when you want to play with a new friend who speaks a different language, you might use gestures or pictures to communicate without words. Cultural translation is sort of like using those gestures and pictures to understand someone else's culture.

For example, in some cultures, it's respectful to take off your shoes when entering a house. In other cultures, it's okay to leave them on. If someone from one of those cultures was visiting the other, they might need to learn about this difference and adjust their behavior accordingly. This is what we mean by cultural translation.

It's important to remember that every culture is unique and has its own way of doing things. Sometimes this can be confusing or frustrating for people who are new to a different culture, but it's important to be patient and open-minded. By trying to understand and appreciate other cultures, we can build stronger relationships and create a more peaceful world.