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By first language I mean the language you use the most (be it English for US/UK citizens, Arabic for Middle Eastern citizens, Italian for those from Italy etc) the one you grew up using and studied in.
I'd rather read the book in its original language if I am able to understand it, or else I would try to find the best translation.
I would rather reading books, magazines and newspapers in their original languages. This will expand more vocabulary and broaden my understaning.
In my opinion, a book is better in its original language. Idioms and culturally specific figures of speech are lost through translation. I enjoy reading the original published book, even if I am not fluent in the language, but I often read the English version after.
I prefer to read it in the original language
I would read a book in its original language that I happen to know, rather than one that is written in my mother tongue. Most often, the translated version cannot really contain the real context of thought, mood, or description of the original; so it will not make for good reading to me.
I couldn't agree more. Sometimes, however, there are some books translated with astonishing adequacy. I remember reading an Arabic translated version of Tolstoy's Resurrection and still wonder whether the translator was Tolstoy's best friend!!
both at the same time , because some times there are translations mistakes