Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
calque
Noun
/kælkeɪ/
Definition
A calque is a word or phrase that is translated literally from another language.
Examples
- The phrase ‘skyscraper’ is a calque of the French term ‘gratte-ciel.’
- ‘Fingers crossed’ is a calque used in many languages to express hope for good luck.
Meaning
In linguistics, a calque occurs when one language borrows a concept from another by translating its components into its own language.
Synonyms
- Loan translation
- Literal translation
