Untranslate: An Application for Context-Based Language Learning

Exploring the Nuances of Language Through Culture and Context

Untranslate recognizes that certain words, phrases, and expressions can only be fully understood by interacting with the culture and the people it has emerged from. The application addresses the challenge faced by individuals who grow up outside their state or country and lose the privilege of being immersed in their native languages and cultures.

What sets Untranslate apart from traditional language learning platforms is its focus on subjective experiences. Rather than relying solely on academic sources, Untranslate introduces users to specific cultural references and content that can only be learned by living in the corresponding place or through conversations with native speakers.

The development of Untranslate involved rigorous user testing and evaluation of existing language applications. The challenges identified included limited functionality, lack of context, and impersonal experiences. To overcome these obstacles, the team behind Untranslate incorporated insights gained from the pain points.

The application provides users with a curated list of contextually rich words. Upon selecting a word, users are presented with four different contexts: historical, cultural, social, and colloquial. Each context offers unique insights, such as the etymology of the word, curated culturally relevant content (books, movies, songs), access to news articles and clips, and guidance on how to use the word in a conversational setting.

Untranslate is designed to be accessible on mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. The screens and graphics are adaptable and adhere to accessibility standards, ensuring inclusivity for all users.

The research behind Untranslate involved first-hand interviews with multiple native speakers of various languages. These interviews provided experiential information about their perception of language, social and political associations, and anecdotes related to their linguistic backgrounds. The content of the application was made more relatable and welcoming by incorporating images and quotes from the interviewees.

Building Untranslate posed a significant challenge due to the realization that language alone can be an ineffective tool for seamless communication across borders and backgrounds. The team conducted several rounds of fact-checking to ensure the accuracy and unbiased nature of the content.

Since its completion in May 2021, Untranslate has received recognition and accolades, including the Graphic Design USA Award, Best Award (hosted by DINZ), ADGA Award, and Communication Arts Interaction Design Award.

Untranslate is not just an application; it is a gateway to understanding the nuances of language through culture and context. By embracing the specific cultural references and content that can only be learned through immersion and conversations with native speakers, Untranslate offers a unique and enriching language learning experience.