The translation happens on this device, so your words are never sent to a translation server. Choose the languages, paste your text and read the result. It is free and private, as long as your browser supports it.
How to translate text
- Pick the language in From, or leave it to be detected if your browser supports that.
- Pick the language in To. Swap languages reverses the pair in one press.
- Paste or type your words into Text to translate.
- Press Translate.
- Read the Translation and use Copy translation to take it with you.
How it works
Recent versions of Chrome on Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS include an on-device translator. This page asks it to translate your text one paragraph at a time, so your layout is kept. The first time you use a language pair, the browser downloads a small language pack, and after that it works offline.
Which browsers can translate here
Right now the built-in translator is in desktop Chrome 138 and newer, and in some preview versions of other browsers. On phones and in browsers without it, this page tells you so instead of sending your text to an online service. If you need a translation there, use a translator you trust with the content.
Why translate on your device
Online translators receive every word you paste. That is a poor fit for contracts, medical letters, HR messages and private conversations. With on-device translation, the text stays on your computer from start to finish.
Tips for better translations
- Use complete sentences. Single words and fragments are easy to mistranslate without context.
- Avoid slang, jokes and local expressions when you can. Plain wording translates most accurately.
- Translate a short piece first to check the tone, then do the rest.
- Translate the result back into your own language. If the meaning has shifted, simplify the original and try again.
- Keep paragraphs short. Each paragraph is translated on its own.
Common uses
- Reading a message or notice from a landlord, school or clinic written in another language.
- Drafting a short reply for a customer or supplier abroad.
- Checking a phrase while studying a language.
- Understanding a document you would rather not paste into a website that stores it.
Questions
How good are the translations?
They are good for understanding and for everyday messages. For legal, medical or published text, have a fluent speaker check the result.
Can it detect the language?
Yes, when your browser also has its built-in language detector. Otherwise, choose the language you are translating from.
Does it work offline?
Yes, after the language pack for your pair has been downloaded the first time.
Why does it say translation is not available?
Your browser may not include the built-in translator yet, or the language pair may not be supported. Try the latest desktop Chrome.
Is there a length limit?
The page counts characters as you type. Very long texts work best when split into sections, and each paragraph is handled separately.