A Comprehensive Review of Culture's Role in Translation and Language Learning

This chapter investigates the critical role of culture in language learning and translation, arguing that despite significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), human translators remain indispensable as cultural mediators. The chapter posits that language and culture are interdependent, with culture shaping cognition, perception, thoughts, and narration. Drawing on concepts such as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis and schema theory, it demonstrates how culture influences cognition. From sociolinguistic, anthropological, and intercultural perspectives, it demonstrates how cultural orientations influence language. The text also highlights that cultural schemata, social norms, and culturally conditioned thought patterns directly influence comprehension in both L1 and L2. Equally, the paper explores how social class, subcultural thought patterns, variations in proxemics can lead to misunderstandings across and even within cultures. It further illustrates how even highly proficient speakers or professional translators can falter without cultural awareness.