The correct way to translate alt text is to preserve the image’s purpose in its actual page context, not to reproduce every visible object. Accessible image translation, screen reader labels, alternative text localization and image descriptions are related tasks, but they have different jobs. A button image needs an action or destination; an informative photograph needs the essential information; a purely decorative image may require an intentionally empty alternative. A translated label that sounds fluent yet directs someone to the wrong action is not accessible.
This guide explains how to translate alt attributes, ARIA accessible names, image captions and complex-image descriptions without losing function. It is for translators, teachers, web editors, designers, content managers and multilingual teams. The examples use fictional English source glosses to expose the reasoning; they are not ready-made translations for any particular language. Actual output must be checked with native readers and the interface in which it will be used.
The practical question is not “What words are in the image?” It is “What would a reader need to know or do if the image vanished?” That distinction changes how we handle a search icon, a decorative banner, a chart with trend lines, a product photo, a diagram, a gallery thumbnail and a warning badge. Start with function, identify the source evidence, translate the shortest sufficient meaning, then test the entire user journey.
The visible problem: accurate words can still make an interface inaccessible
Imagine a page in which a magnifying-glass icon submits a site search. A literal translation describing a small glass circle on a handle preserves appearance but withholds function. Now imagine a photograph of a school laboratory next to a paragraph already identifying the equipment and students; translating a long visual inventory into the alt field may create needless repetition. The linguistic work is accurate in isolation, but the user’s experience becomes slower or misleading.
This is why the translation unit is not always a sentence. Sometimes it is an action in a button, an image and adjacent link text taken together, or a short description plus a visible data table. The source author may not have labelled the components well. Translation cannot cure missing source information by guessing; it can flag the gap, propose a test, and document whether the issue belongs to authoring or translation.
First principles: what meaning must survive
1. Purpose before appearance
An image’s accessibility role depends on what it contributes in this placement. A magnifier in a search button and a magnifier in a textbook illustration may require entirely different verbal equivalents.
Consider this case: A photo of a laboratory used as a decoration does not need its bottles enumerated, while the same photo used to identify a missing safety item does. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Ask whether the target wording lets a nonvisual reader achieve the same task. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
2. Functional names are verbs and destinations
When an icon controls a function, its accessible name should identify the action or destination. Translating the icon’s physical shape is usually the wrong unit.
Consider this case: A printer icon linked to printing can become “Print this page,” not “Drawing of a printer.” This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Activate the control and check that its name predicts the outcome. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
3. Decorative emptiness is intentional
A decorative image can need an empty alt attribute rather than an awkward translation or a missing attribute. These are different states in markup and in assistive technology.
Consider this case: A patterned separator between two sections can carry alt=”” even if a designer has assigned it an evocative filename. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Verify whether the image duplicates adjacent information or merely supplies ambience. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
4. Context changes the necessary detail
Information important to one user journey may be redundant in another. Reusing a translated alt string across all placements can create both over-description and omission.
Consider this case: A portrait on a staff directory may need a person’s displayed name; a photograph in an article about clothing construction may need the garment feature. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Read the heading, caption, neighboring prose and link target before deciding. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
5. Visible text inside an image is not optional
If embedded words are the only available version of essential text, the accessible alternative must communicate that information. If they are real text nearby, repeating them may be unnecessary.
Consider this case: A scanned notice that says “Registration closes at 16:00” must not become merely “notice board”. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Check whether the same instructions remain understandable when the image is unavailable. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
6. Accessible names are not visual captions
A caption is visible editorial text; an accessible name labels a control; alt is one mechanism for conveying the meaning or function of an image. They are not interchangeable fields.
Consider this case: A caption might discuss why a map was created, while a link labelled “Open campus map” communicates an action. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Inspect each component and where assistive software obtains its name. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
7. Short is useful only when sufficient
Brevity helps navigation but should not erase the detail needed for interpretation. A complex image often needs an accessible short label and a longer nearby explanation.
Consider this case: A chart summarizing unemployment by year is not fully explained by “blue graph”; a small trend summary and data table can share the load. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: See whether the reader can recover the conclusion, measure and limits. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
8. Translation must keep reference and identity
Names, ID strings, dates, product variants and interface state labels should not be silently replaced. Some text is for identification; some is for interpretation.
Consider this case: Two nearly identical product photographs labelled model A and model B must not be merged into one generic translated caption. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Match every target name to its original record and correct destination. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
9. State changes require explicit language
Icons can convey expanded, collapsed, selected, disabled, loading, successful or failed states. The translated words must preserve the current state, not a promise of the next state.
Consider this case: “Upload complete” differs from “Uploading,” and “Selected” differs from “Select”. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Toggle the component and confirm that the announced state changes in the right direction. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
10. Culture does not override safety or function
Local conventions can change idiomatic wording or visual symbolism. They do not permit changing a warning, payment action or consent choice.
Consider this case: A red triangle may have a culturally different label, but a link to emergency instructions still needs a precise destination. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Separate localization of the metaphor from preservation of the operation. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
11. Native grammar has to survive string limits
A target language can be longer, require inflection or place verbs differently. Artificial truncation can remove the word that makes an instruction clear.
Consider this case: A narrow button that displays “Close” may need a redesigned layout rather than an ambiguous abbreviation. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Test the complete target sentence and the screen reader pronunciation. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
12. Meaning is established by evidence
When a photo is unclear or the content owner has not defined the image’s role, guessing the hidden detail is not a translation. Mark the uncertainty for review.
Consider this case: A low-resolution scan that might read 03 or 08 should not be silently converted into a certain deadline. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Record the unresolved issue and seek a higher-quality source or owner confirmation. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
13. Complex graphics need layered access
Charts, infographics, diagrams and maps can require a concise name, a structured explanation and an accessible data representation. One giant alt field is not always workable.
Consider this case: A flow diagram with branches should retain decisions, order and outcomes through adjacent text or another usable representation. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Test whether the nonvisual account preserves relationships rather than a collection of nouns. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
14. Accessibility must be tested, not declared
A well-written target string can fail if a component is hidden, duplicated, incorrectly labelled or disconnected from its control. Translation review therefore includes implementation.
Consider this case: An aria-label that is not applied to the actual search button does not help, however elegant the words. This contrast matters because the page must make sense to a reader who cannot depend on the picture and also to someone moving quickly through a list of controls.
Validation question: Run the page with keyboard and assistive technology, and log observed behaviour. Where the source provides too little evidence, the correct next step is a query to the owner, not a confident invention.
A repeatable twelve-stage translation and accessibility method
Stage 1: Map the page, not the spreadsheet
Locate the image or control within its full page, including headings, neighboring text, component type and link destinations.
A practical example: One alt string in an exported translation file may serve several pages even though those placements need different messages. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A location list showing page, component, purpose and existing name. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 2: Classify the image’s role
Decide whether each image is decorative, informative, functional, a complex graphic or an image of text.
A practical example: The same calendar icon can be a decoration, a booking button or an illustration in a vocabulary lesson. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A documented role for every item and any ambiguous decisions flagged. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 3: Write the reader’s task
State what the reader needs to understand or accomplish without the image.
A practical example: For a cart icon, the task may be opening a basket, not naming the icon; for a chart, it may be comparing groups. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A one-sentence purpose statement separate from the source wording. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 4: Inventory non-translatable identifiers
Record names, numerals, dates, codes and accessible-name dependencies that must remain aligned.
A practical example: A product image identified by SKU QZ-14 cannot be relabelled QZ-41 because the words look similar. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A source-to-target identity sheet and preservation checklist. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 5: Draft one functional target
Translate the purpose in natural, concise target language, without appending a visual list by habit.
A practical example: Prefer a clear action label for an icon-only button and an informative summary for a photograph. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A candidate string that can be read aloud without supporting context. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 6: Handle absent or redundant content
For images that add no information beyond real surrounding text, consider whether the correct localized value is empty alt.
A practical example: A section’s repeated logo may clutter every heading when announced repeatedly. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: An explicit classification decision, not an accidental blank cell. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 7: Separate short and long descriptions
Place essential identification in the short field and detailed structure in an appropriate longer accessible channel.
A practical example: A complex timetable requires more than a row of color names; the data may need an HTML table. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: An accessible short label paired with a usable detail source. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 8: Check linguistic precision
Review target grammar, verb aspect, negation, singular/plural, honorific tone and culturally appropriate action words.
A practical example: “Delete file” must not soften into “hide file” to fit the design. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A target phrase with no weakened warning or changed action. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 9: Fit interface constraints responsibly
Check character limits and visual layout, but never replace clear meaning with a cryptic abbreviation simply to satisfy width.
A practical example: An image-button label too long for the design may still be suitable as an invisible accessible name. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A tested string and any layout ticket raised for the interface team. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 10: Test reading order and keyboard flow
Move through the translated page using keyboard navigation and at least one relevant screen reader environment.
A practical example: A repeated link name may become confusing when read outside the surrounding paragraph. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A test record showing where focus, names and states actually land. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 11: Run bilingual and functional review
Ask a language reviewer and a user-experience reviewer to check separate kinds of accuracy.
A practical example: A native speaker may catch grammar; a screen reader tester may catch duplicate or missing announcements. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: Two different sign-offs or issue lists, each attached to the component. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Stage 12: Retest after publishing changes
Recheck any replacement imagery, responsive design, new text or library refactoring that may have altered the meaning.
A practical example: A new hero image can make yesterday’s valid alt text factually wrong. Make the decision visible in the working record rather than treating it as a private intuition. That gives the next translator or developer a way to reproduce your reasoning without guessing why a field was changed.
Deliverable: A lightweight regression record tied to version and page date. The stage is complete only when a second person can verify its outcome in the actual page context.
Twenty-eight worked translation cases: from a source gloss to a usable target
All cases below are constructed for teaching. The “tempting” phrase is an example of a plausible but incomplete translation, not a quotation from any real product. The improved wording still requires local grammar, component checks and source verification before publication.
Worked case 1: Search icon
Situation: Icon button opens a site-wide search form. Source meaning to preserve: Icon button opens a site-wide search form. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Circle with handle.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Search this site.” Reason: Physical shape does not announce the function; using a verb makes the destination predictable. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the button actually open search rather than submit a query? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 2: Printer control
Situation: An icon sends the current page to the print dialog. Source meaning to preserve: An icon sends the current page to the print dialog. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Grey printer image.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Print this page.” Reason: The action matters and needs not be inflated into a claim that printing has finished. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is this print or download as PDF? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 3: Decorative wave
Situation: Wavy banner behind an already visible heading. Source meaning to preserve: Wavy banner behind an already visible heading. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Blue abstract ocean wave decoration.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “(Intentionally empty alt.)” Reason: A decorative alternative should not interrupt the heading. Empty alt is meaningful markup, not translation omission. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is any unique information hidden in the wave? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 4: Photograph as evidence
Situation: A field report shows a fallen safety barrier. Source meaning to preserve: A field report shows a fallen safety barrier. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “A street with trees and people.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Collapsed barrier blocking the marked pedestrian route.” Reason: The subject is the obstruction that the report documents, not a scenic inventory. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the image really show that obstruction? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 5: Duplicate portrait
Situation: Portrait beside the real-text staff name and title. Source meaning to preserve: Portrait beside the real-text staff name and title. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Smiling person at desk.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “(Possibly empty alt, if image adds no information.)” Reason: An accessible directory may already expose the identity through nearby text. Avoid redundant announcements. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the image itself the sole identifying link? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 6: Product variants
Situation: Two linked clothing images show the black and blue versions of one jacket. Source meaning to preserve: Two linked clothing images show the black and blue versions of one jacket. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Jacket photo.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Black jacket variant; Blue jacket variant.” Reason: Variant identity is decision-making information; one generic label can cause a wrong order. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Do image labels map to the exact option IDs? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 7: Bar chart
Situation: Figure plots monthly attendance at a public programme. Source meaning to preserve: Figure plots monthly attendance at a public programme. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Green and orange bars.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Monthly attendance comparison; details and values in the adjacent table.” Reason: A visual-description phrase alone cannot tell the reader what is compared or where to find the figures. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Are the units and sample periods clear? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 8: Map link
Situation: Small map thumbnail opens a detailed building map. Source meaning to preserve: Small map thumbnail opens a detailed building map. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Map picture with roads.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Open accessible building map.” Reason: Destination language is more useful than a list of coloured streets. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the destination provide an accessible map alternative? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 9: Text-only scan
Situation: A scanned sign has a closing date not repeated elsewhere. Source meaning to preserve: A scanned sign has a closing date not repeated elsewhere. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Photograph of a white poster.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Applications close 12 June at 16:00 (verified against source).” Reason: The source text is essential. An image label that omits the deadline prevents the user from acting. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Was the date checked rather than guessed from a blurry scan? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 10: Thumbnail linking video
Situation: Video thumbnail opens a lesson on measuring angles. Source meaning to preserve: Video thumbnail opens a lesson on measuring angles. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Teacher standing by board.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Watch the lesson on measuring angles.” Reason: The action and subject should be preserved; no promise about video duration is warranted. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the thumbnail linked to video playback? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 11: Download icon
Situation: A PDF symbol starts downloading the accessibility guide. Source meaning to preserve: A PDF symbol starts downloading the accessibility guide. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Red PDF symbol.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Download the accessibility guide (PDF).” Reason: File type can matter because opening or downloading is different from navigating to a page. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the element download or merely open a PDF page? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 12: Expandable FAQ
Situation: A chevron expands a hidden answer. Source meaning to preserve: A chevron expands a hidden answer. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Downward arrow.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Show answer to the fee question.” Reason: State and action should work with the question. In some implementations the accessible name remains fixed while expanded state is announced separately. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does expanded state come from semantic markup? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 13: Loading spinner
Situation: Animated spinner appears while a search is running. Source meaning to preserve: Animated spinner appears while a search is running. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Circular rotating symbol.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Search in progress.” Reason: A process state is not a completed search result; wording must avoid claiming success. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the live region announce progress without repeating endlessly? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 14: Success badge
Situation: Green tick appears after a document upload. Source meaning to preserve: Green tick appears after a document upload. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Green check mark.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Document uploaded successfully.” Reason: Status is meaningful, but only if the product truly confirms upload rather than merely selecting a file. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the server confirm the upload? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 15: Error icon
Situation: Red exclamation appears beside a missing required field. Source meaning to preserve: Red exclamation appears beside a missing required field. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Red circle with white mark.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Email address is required.” Reason: A generic visual sign is insufficient when an actionable correction is needed. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Can the user identify the field and correction without relying on colour? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 16: Gallery image
Situation: First of five images shows the rear of a sculpture. Source meaning to preserve: First of five images shows the rear of a sculpture. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Photo 1.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Rear view of the bronze sculpture, image 1 of 5.” Reason: Position and orientation help an image sequence; an image number alone loses subject identity. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does gallery navigation separately announce current position? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 17: Logo as link
Situation: Organisation logo links to its home page. Source meaning to preserve: Organisation logo links to its home page. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Company logo.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Organisation home page.” Reason: If the logo is the only content of the link, its name should communicate destination. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the home link already named by visible text? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 18: Comparison diagram
Situation: Two cells compare pre- and post-treatment structures. Source meaning to preserve: Two cells compare pre- and post-treatment structures. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Two drawings of cells.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Before and after structure comparison; long description follows.” Reason: The relation between panels matters more than incidental colour and line thickness. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the comparison’s actual change explained elsewhere? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 19: Route infographic
Situation: Flow arrow splits a user into ‘eligible’ and ‘not eligible’ outcomes. Source meaning to preserve: Flow arrow splits a user into ‘eligible’ and ‘not eligible’ outcomes. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Colourful arrows and boxes.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Eligibility decision process; steps listed below.” Reason: Decision order and branch conditions cannot be reconstructed from decoration alone. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Do the written steps match both branches? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 20: User avatar
Situation: Circular avatar next to a comment whose author name is text. Source meaning to preserve: Circular avatar next to a comment whose author name is text. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Photo of woman.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “(Often empty alt if the comment already names the author.)” Reason: Inferring demographics from appearance adds unverified material; the identity is in the comment label. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the avatar needed to distinguish otherwise anonymous speakers? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 21: Warning pictogram
Situation: Exclamation triangle beside a severe-weather warning sentence. Source meaning to preserve: Exclamation triangle beside a severe-weather warning sentence. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Yellow danger triangle.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “(Potentially empty alt because the warning text already conveys the alert.)” Reason: Repeated warning icons can create noise; the actual warning sentence must be accessible. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the text include severity and required action? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 22: Language switcher
Situation: Globe icon opens language choices. Source meaning to preserve: Globe icon opens language choices. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Planet earth icon.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Choose language.” Reason: The action changes the reading language, not the user’s geographic location. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does it open a list, modal or automatic translation feature? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 23: Chart legend colours
Situation: Red and blue series indicate observed and projected values. Source meaning to preserve: Red and blue series indicate observed and projected values. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Red line, blue line.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Observed values; projected values.” Reason: The semantic distinction must survive if colour is the sole encoding. It can live in a legend or long description. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is projection clearly distinguished from measurement? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 24: Booking calendar
Situation: Calendar icon selects an appointment date. Source meaning to preserve: Calendar icon selects an appointment date. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Small calendar drawing.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Choose appointment date.” Reason: A date picker action must not be described as a confirmed booking. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does selection merely choose a date or make the appointment? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 25: Microscope micrograph
Situation: Micrograph includes a 20 µm scale bar. Source meaning to preserve: Micrograph includes a 20 µm scale bar. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Cells under microscope.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Micrograph of cell boundaries; scale bar 20 micrometres.” Reason: The scale is an interpretive measurement; careless language may make it a zoom factor. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Is the scale bar present and readable in source? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 26: Chart broken link
Situation: Infographic image has no accessible data source. Source meaning to preserve: Infographic image has no accessible data source. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Chart showing many numbers.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Chart comparing regional rates; full numerical data unavailable.” Reason: When evidence is missing, the translation can describe visible facts but must flag the need for data. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Has a data table or a trustworthy source been requested? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 27: Image as form submit
Situation: Arrow graphic submits a completed registration form. Source meaning to preserve: Arrow graphic submits a completed registration form. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Right arrow.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Submit registration form.” Reason: A directional object description hides a consequential action. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does submission send data immediately or lead to review? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Worked case 28: Campus icon
Situation: Wheelchair symbol links to a campus access information page. Source meaning to preserve: Wheelchair symbol links to a campus access information page. A tempting but inadequate rendering would be: “Wheelchair picture.” The issue is not always that those words are false; the issue is that they do not supply what the reader needs at this point in the task.
Better working target: “Campus accessibility information.” Reason: Do not imply that every entrance is accessible when the link only presents information. If the destination language needs another word order or an inflected verb, change the grammar while keeping the action, evidence, identity and degree of certainty. Do not let a design convention or translation-memory match silently replace the specific purpose of this element.
Audit prompt: Does the target page verify actual accessible routes? If the answer cannot be confirmed, record a query rather than presenting the suggested string as a verified release candidate.
Failure modes and practical repairs
1. Describing the shape instead of the action
A graphic button becomes ‘three horizontal lines’ even though it opens the main menu. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Use the function that a keyboard user will trigger; test the control. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
2. Filling every blank field
Empty decorative alt values are treated as missing translations and filled with irrelevant prose. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Record decorative cases as intentional decisions so software and reviewers leave them empty. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
3. Reusing one string everywhere
The same icon appears in a lesson, navigation menu and data visualization. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Separate the assets by page context and give each placement its own verified purpose. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
4. Translating filenames as content
A file like img_0047.png becomes an announced name when the real alt is omitted. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Write the meaningful alternative or use an explicitly empty alt where appropriate. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
5. Removing negation to save space
‘Do not submit’ is compressed into a misleading positive command. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Escalate the width constraint; never trade away negation or task direction. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
6. Inventing identities from faces
A portrait’s age, nationality or occupation is guessed from appearance. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Use supplied identifying information; avoid unnecessary personal traits. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
7. Equating colour and state
A red dot is translated as error even where it marks a live or selected status. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Check the component’s semantic state and source documentation. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
8. Turning progress into completion
Uploading is translated as successfully uploaded. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Distinguish pending, in progress, failed and complete in all interface states. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
9. Flattening complex diagrams
A multibranch decision diagram is compressed into a one-line list. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Preserve branch conditions in a text equivalent or companion data table. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
10. Forgetting target-language testing
The wording is linguistically sound but clipped, duplicated or absent in screen-reader output. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Review accessible names and reading order in the deployed build. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
11. Confusing caption and alt
An editorial caption is pasted into a search button’s accessible label. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Separate visible explanation from control identification and image purpose. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
12. Overstating a standard
A team declares all images compliant because every img has some nonempty alt. The failure often survives a simple spelling review because the sentence sounds grammatical. It changes the user journey rather than the surface language. Check appropriateness, not just presence; follow applicable accessibility criteria. Verify the repair by returning to the component and asking what information or action remains unavailable.
Guided practice: transfer the method to new pages
Practice 1: A decorative hero and a functional logo
A course page shows a decorative geometric hero and a logo that alone links home. Draft two outputs, explaining why one may be empty. Answer: the hero can have intentionally empty alt if it adds nothing, while the linked logo needs an accessible destination name. Check both in reading order.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Practice 2: A graph without a table
A climate chart has yearly values and two coloured series but no accessible data. Draft a short alt and specify the missing longer data source. Answer: identify measure, period and comparison without fabricating values; request a table or full description from the author.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Practice 3: A save icon with a changing state
A user saves a document and sees pending, saved and failed states. Write labels for all three. Answer: preserve each state distinctly; do not use ‘Saved’ before the server acknowledges success. Test announcements after keyboard activation.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Practice 4: A safety notice image
A photographed notice includes both opening hours and a temporary closure. Only the closure affects access today. Draft the essential alternative while retaining the hours somewhere accessible. Answer: place critical current restrictions first, include times accurately and avoid claiming the image is the official policy if the source is unverified.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Practice 5: An image with repeated caption
A photograph’s caption already says it depicts the university library. Decide whether alt adds unique information or repeats. Answer: assess the purpose in that placement; a distinctive factual feature may deserve a concise description, but redundant wording can be omitted.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Practice 6: A language-selector icon
A globe icon opens an interface menu with English, Spanish and Arabic. Translate the action, not an assumption about users’ nationalities. Answer: ‘Choose language’ is the functional gloss; verify language tags, script direction and names in the final list.
For independent practice, make a two-column record: the message the person must receive and the exact interface evidence that supports it. Review with a partner who has not seen the original image. If their predicted action or conclusion differs, revise the wording or request missing evidence before release.
Frequently asked questions
Should alt text be translated word for word?
Usually not. The target must preserve the image’s purpose in context. A literal description can be appropriate for some informative images, but it is inadequate for a control whose function matters more than its appearance. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Do decorative images need translated words?
Not necessarily. Properly implemented decorative images can use an intentionally empty alternative. Do not treat that as an error; test whether the picture truly carries no necessary meaning. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Can I use AI to draft image descriptions?
It may assist with a first draft, but a model can hallucinate objects, identify people incorrectly or miss function. Check the output against the actual image and source context, especially for consequential actions. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
What is the difference between alt text and a caption?
Alt text provides an accessible alternative for an image in its context. A caption is visible content with an editorial role. They may overlap in information but should not be blindly duplicated. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
How do I translate an image that is a link?
Identify the destination or action, then write the accessible name that makes it understandable. Verify the real link target before translating. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
What if my target language needs more characters?
Prioritize accurate action and meaning. Use concise natural grammar, but ask the design team to accommodate length rather than erasing a condition or warning. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Should every image of text be reproduced in alt?
If the text is necessary and unavailable elsewhere, the user needs access to it. For lengthy content, prefer real text or another accessible format; avoid hiding entire documents in one unwieldy attribute. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
What about charts and maps?
Use a short alternative that identifies the subject and a complementary accessible description or data representation that preserves comparisons, order, units and limitations. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Can one alt string serve multiple languages?
Only if that is a deliberate, tested choice, such as a nonlinguistic decorative blank. Informative and functional text generally needs suitable language-specific wording and correct page language metadata. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Should screen reader testing be done before translation?
Test the source to identify its current behaviour, and test the target build after localization. Translating a broken source can expose but cannot automatically fix its implementation errors. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
Who approves uncertain content?
The content owner or suitably qualified subject expert should resolve missing facts; the translator should document the question and avoid inventing an answer. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
What is the fastest final check?
Read the page without looking at images, move through controls with a keyboard, confirm accessible names and status changes, and compare every consequential identifier with the source. The practical test is whether the target-language reader can reach the same meaning or decision without the original graphic. If not, investigate the source context as well as the words.
A release checklist for multilingual accessibility
Before shipping, confirm the role of each image; intentional empty alt values; actions and destinations; identifiers; image-text content; chart data alternatives; grammar; target-language length; keyboard operation; screen reader announcements; responsive states; and changes made during deployment. Store unresolved questions beside the relevant component, not in a general email thread that may be lost. Assign ownership for accessibility defects because a translator alone cannot repair a missing HTML relationship or an inaccessible control.
Remember the boundary of this guide: it teaches the translation and localization decision. It is not a declaration that a website complies with every accessibility requirement. Use applicable WCAG guidance, implementation review and real users’ feedback to assess the product itself.
Evidence and further reading
The W3C WAI alt decision tree explains when informative, functional, decorative and complex images need different treatment. The functional image guidance emphasizes actions and destinations, while the decorative-image guidance explains why empty alt can be correct. The WCAG 2.2 recommendation provides the broader text-alternative framework. These are technical references; consult their examples and the target platform before implementing.
Where to go next inside eduKateSG
For the core distinction between literal wording and preserved intent, read Translate Meaning, Not Just Words. For tone choices, use Context, Tone and Register. The translation series index contains specialist owners; the Vocabulary Learning Hub develops precise word distinctions; and How English Works: Translation and Meaning connects this job to the larger language system.
The principle is simple but demanding: the best translation is the one that lets the reader complete the same meaningful task. Sometimes that takes fewer words, sometimes a longer description, and sometimes a source correction. Accessibility begins when we stop treating the image as an isolated vocabulary item and start treating it as part of a person’s route through information.