How to Translate Text Inside Microsoft Word

Tap through each step below to see exactly how it works.

  1. Select the Text You Want to Translate

    Highlight the sentence or paragraph you need translated by dragging over it with your cursor.

  2. Open the Review Tab

    Click the 'Review' tab on the ribbon.

  3. Click Translate

    In the 'Language' group, click 'Translate -> Translate Selection.'

  4. Choose a Language and Insert

    Pick the target language, and if you're happy with the result, click 'Insert' to replace the original text with the translation.

  5. Why It's Useful

    You get a translation without ever leaving your document or switching to a separate browser tab, which keeps your writing flow uninterrupted.

No More Juggling Browser Tabs

Instead of opening a browser and switching between translation sites every time you need a quick translation, Word's built-in feature lets you check a translation without ever breaking your writing flow.

Translating an Entire Document

If you need more than a quick phrase, Word can translate a whole file at once -- select 'Translate -> Translate Document' from the same Review tab menu, and Word opens a fully translated copy as a new document, leaving your original untouched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I translate an entire document at once, not just a selection?

Yes -- choosing 'Translate -> Translate Document' opens the entire file translated into a new document.

Do I need an internet connection to use the translate feature?

Yes, the feature relies on an online translation service, so you need an active internet connection for it to work.