As interpreters and translators, we often focus on the mechanics of language—the grammar, structure, and meaning of the words we convey. But there’s another layer of skill that can elevate the clarity and fluency of our work: lexical weaving.
Lexical weaving refers to the practice of subtly incorporating information we already know about the topic, client, or context to ensure that our interpretations and translations are coherent, well-structured, and meaningful for the target language audience. It helps bridge the gap between languages and cultures, reducing cognitive overload for the audience and creating a natural flow of communication.
But how does lexical weaving work in practice, and what strategies can we use to ensure we apply it effectively without distorting the message?
What is Lexical Weaving?
Lexical weaving is the process of strategically embedding known information into a translation or interpretation to provide a smoother, more contextually relevant output. This could mean:
Using previously established terminology to maintain consistency.
Drawing on background knowledge about the subject matter to enhance coherence.
Anticipating and framing information based on what is likely to come next.
Rather than simply converting each word or sign into an equivalent in the other language, lexical weaving ensures that the message is appropriately structured, logically ordered, and conceptually clear.
How Does Lexical Weaving Support Interpretation & Translation?
If we take the example of a doctor’s appointment—specifically, a diabetes review, we can see how lexical weaving helps to reduce cognitive load, enhance clarity, and make the interpretation more effective.
In BSL-English interpreting and translation, lexical weaving plays a crucial role in minimising processing strain (cognitive load) for both the interpreter and the audience. By carefully incorporating contextually relevant terminology, structuring the message logically, and drawing on existing knowledge, we create a smoother, more natural interpretation.
Some of the key benefits of lexical weaving in this scenario include:
Maintaining Coherence
Interpreters who integrate key terms and concepts early in their delivery help to reduce fragmentation. If a topic involves a lot of technical language (e.g., a medical consultation about diabetes), using consistent terminology throughout the interaction strengthens comprehension.
Example: Diabetes Review
Literal Interpretation:
Doctor: "We are going to discuss your condition today."
Interpreter: "We are going to discuss your condition today."
Lexical Weaving Interpretation:
Interpreter: "We are going to discuss your diabetes today."
By specifying "diabetes" instead of "condition," the interpreter aligns with prior knowledge, ensuring the conversation stays clear and consistent without ambiguity.
Managing Cognitive Load for the Audience
If an audience has to work too hard to follow an interpretation or translation, the message may become inaccessible. Weaving in familiar concepts, logical connections, and structured phrasing makes information easier to process.
Example:– Medication Discussion
Literal Interpretation:
Doctor: "How’s the new medication going?"
Interpreter: "How’s the new medication going?"
Lexical Weaving Interpretation:
Interpreter: "How are the injections going?"
If the interpreter was at the previous appointment and knows the patient was prescribed insulin injections, using "injections" rather than a generic sign for "medication" reduces cognitive load by reinforcing established terminology.
Preserving Meaning & Intention
An interpreter who understands the full context of a conversation can frame information appropriately without unnecessary detours or literal translations that don’t suit the communicative purpose.
Example:– Blood Sugar Control
Literal Interpretation:
Doctor: "Your HbA1c levels are higher than we’d like, so we need to explore better glycaemic control."
Interpreter: "Your HbA1c levels are higher than we’d like, so we need to explore better glycaemic control."
Lexical Weaving Interpretation:
Interpreter: "Your long-term blood sugar level is too high, so we need to find ways to lower it."
If the patient is unfamiliar with medical terms like "HbA1c" or "glycaemic control," the interpreter can interpret the meaning the explanation while ensuring comprehension.
Helping with Skopos & WDIM Strategies
When translating or interpreting, we always consider Skopos (the purpose of the message) and WDIM (What Does It Mean?). Lexical weaving supports this by ensuring that meaning—not just individual words—is carried across effectively.
Example:– Blood Sugar Monitoring
Literal Interpretation:
Doctor: "Are you checking your blood glucose levels regularly?"
Interpreter: (Signs the standard phrase for "checking blood glucose levels.")
Lexical Weaving Interpretation:
Interpreter: (Instead of the generic "checking blood glucose levels," the interpreter signs "finger-prick test" or "sensor check," depending on what they already know the patient uses.)
If the interpreter knows that the patient uses a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) rather than traditional finger-prick testing, they adapt the sign to reflect the specific method the patient is familiar with. This maintains the intent of the doctor's question while reducing processing effort for the patient, ensuring clarity and relevance.
Strategies for Effective Lexical Weaving
Now that we understand why lexical weaving is important, how can we apply it in our work?
1️ Establish Consistent Terminology
In translation work, repeated terms should be presented in a way that aligns with both audience expectations and subject matter expertise. For example:
If discussing " Ephemeral" or “Anthropocene,” an interpreter/translator might establish a fixed lexicon early in the interaction rather than using varied terms that could create confusion.
Instead of fingerspelling or signing different versions of a noun or concept, the interpreter might introduce a set sign or phrase that will remain consistent throughout.
Tip: Before interpreting or translating, check if a preferred sign/term is already in use by the client or community.
2️ Build from Known Information
Rather than introducing a completely new term or sign without context, think about what the audience already knows.
Example: Legal Setting – Force Majeure Clause
Literal Interpretation:
Speaker: "This contract includes a force majeure clause, which protects parties in case of unforeseen circumstances."
Interpreter/translator: (Fingerspells “F-O-R-C-E M-A-J-E-U-R-E” and then attempts a direct translation.)
Lexical Weaving Interpretation:
Interpreter/translator: (Fingerspells “F-O-R-C-E M-A-J-E-U-R-E” and then the interpreter signs “contract cancel if big disaster” while incorporating a facial expression that indicates serious unforeseen events. Then, when the speaker expands on the examples—floods, fires, pandemics—the interpreter/translator reinforces this meaning with natural placement and depiction.)
By using this approach, the interpreter/translator sidesteps unnecessary cognitive overload for the Deaf audience, allowing them to immediately grasp the key concept without being distracted by unfamiliar terminology or excessive fingerspelling. As the presentation progresses, the interpreter can then introduce the term 'Force Majeure' if it becomes necessary, once the meaning has been firmly established.
3 Adapt Cultural & Conceptual Equivalence
Certain concepts do not directly transfer from English to BSL (or vice versa). Instead of trying to force a direct equivalent, an interpreter should weave in a culturally appropriate explanation.
Example:The phrase “penny for your thoughts” doesn’t translate directly into BSL. Instead of fingerspelling or signing it literally, a better approach would be:
· “What are you thinking?”
· “Tell me your thoughts.”
This ensures that the intent of the message remains intact, even if the literal words are different.
When to Use Lexical Weaving (and When to Be Cautious)
While lexical weaving is a valuable tool, interpreters/translators must also be mindful of overstepping boundaries or introducing bias. Here’s when to use and when to avoid this technique:
Use Lexical Weaving When:
The audience would struggle to follow without additional context.
Specialist terminology needs to be embedded naturally for clarity.
Maintaining coherence requires linking previously mentioned concepts.
A literal interpretation would be unclear, ambiguous, or lead to misinterpretation.
The intent and meaning of the source message can be reinforced without altering content.
Be Cautious of Lexical Weaving When:
The information is not explicitly stated in the source message, risking misinformation.
The interpreter assumes knowledge that the audience may not have.
The adaptation shifts the meaning rather than enhancing clarity.
The interpreter/translator adds explanations that alter the intent of the original message.
There is a risk of over-simplifying or omitting key information.
Final Thoughts: Clarity Without Compromise
Lexical weaving is not about replacing clarification or taking over the speaker’s role—it’s about using what you know from the context, topic, and client to enhance the clarity and coherence of your interpretation or translation. It ensures that meaning is conveyed in a way that makes sense to the target audience, without adding, omitting, or distorting the original message.
Often, interpreters and translators use lexical weaving instinctively. For example, when working from English to BSL, you might sign "means what" after interpreting a phrase with technical language—this is a natural way to frame information accessibly rather than delivering a word-for-word translation. By embedding meaning into the structure of the target language, you reduce cognitive load and make the message clearer without altering its intent.
However, lexical weaving must always be applied carefully. In high-stakes settings—such as police interviews, mental health assessments, or court proceedings—where meaning and accuracy can directly impact outcomes, interpreters and translators must be cautious. If unsure about a term or concept, or if adapting phrasing could influence the response of a witness, patient, or professional, the best approach is to seek clarification from the original speaker or author. Asking them to elaborate, rephrase, or explain further ensures that meaning is preserved without unintended interpretation bias.
Ultimately, lexical weaving is a crucial skill for interpreters and translators. It allows us to bridge the gap between languages and cultures while maintaining accuracy, coherence, and accessibility. Used effectively, it enhances understanding and supports the overall communicative goal, ensuring that our work is as clear and effective as possible.