In this classic and influential text, French linguist Georges Mounin tackles the core challenges of translation from a linguistic perspective. He famously argues that while perfect translation is theoretically impossible due to inherent differences between languages and cultures, communication is still practically achievable. The book systematically explores concepts like untranslatability, lexical and syntactic issues, and the relationship between language and worldview. Mounin's work was pivotal in establishing a more scientific and systematic approach to the field, making it an essential read for students, translators, and theorists of translation.