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Documentation Guide

Translating WordPress Theme

Translate your WordPress theme into your own language using Poedit and standard WordPress translation files.

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✓ Poedit Workflow
✓ .POT Source File
✓ .PO Translation
✓ .MO Output

How to Translate a WordPress Theme

Follow these steps to create translation files from a theme language template and apply them to your WordPress website.

Documentation WordPress Theme Translation EWP Theme Guide

WordPress themes can be translated into another language by using a theme language template file and generating the proper translation files. This guide explains the basic process for creating .po and .mo files using Poedit.

1

Install Poedit

Download and install Poedit software on your computer. Poedit is used to open the theme language template and create translated language files.

2

Open the Theme .POT File

Find and open the theme .pot file from the theme language folder.

/wp-content/themes/theme-name/languages/
3

Create a New Translation

In Poedit, create a new translation from the source file and select the language you want to use for your WordPress website.

4

Translate the Strings

Translate each available theme string into your selected language. Save your progress as you work through the translation file.

5

Save .PO and .MO Files

When you save the translation in Poedit, it creates the required .po and .mo files. These files should use the correct language naming convention.

6

Upload Translation Files

Upload the generated translation files to the WordPress languages themes folder.

/wp-content/languages/themes/
7

Change Site Language

Go to Settings → General → Site Language in WordPress and choose the language you created translation files for.

Tip: Keep a backup copy of your translated .po and .mo files before updating a theme. This helps prevent translation work from being lost.

Translation File Summary

The .pot file is the source translation template included with the theme. The .po file stores the translated text. The .mo file is the compiled version WordPress uses to display the translated theme strings.

Where to Get Help

For setup questions, translation issues, or theme support, use the EWP Theme support page or review the other documentation guides.

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WordPress Theme Translation FAQ

Common questions about translating WordPress themes with language files.

What files are used to translate a WordPress theme?

WordPress theme translation commonly uses a .pot template file, a .po translation file, and a compiled .mo file.

What software can I use to translate the theme?

Poedit is a common option for opening the theme .pot file and generating the translated .po and .mo files.

Where do I upload the translated files?

Upload the translated language files into the WordPress languages themes directory, usually /wp-content/languages/themes/.

How do I activate the translated language?

Go to Settings → General → Site Language in WordPress and choose the correct language.

Need help with theme setup?

Use EWP Theme documentation for installation, updates, translation, free theme setup, and pro theme support.

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