Re: One word: DUH!
"(also why automatic translation of idiomatic language is likely to fail) because they rely on understanding."
Hence the often strange, sometimes funny, often just plain wrong auto-subtitles on YouTube videos. Not to mention the occasion outrage over some TV shows subtitles which in some instances have completely charged the whole meaning of the show and plot from the original language version.
Also why in diplomatic negotiations, both sides use their own translators and can spend months or years over fine details, and they still get it wrong.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
