This paper investigates the role of transfer in the translation of English idioms by Arab learners of English. It attempts to spotlight on the difficulties of translating idioms and to indicate potential transfer that may occur in the process of their translation. The data of the study were collected from the translation of selected English idioms administered to senior Saudi English language majors. The general performance of subjects indicates poor competence in translating idioms from the target language. Results reveal lack of familiarity with the target idioms, particularly with their pragmatic and cultural aspects. The study urges that idioms worth greater attention in linguistic research and in ELT environment.
Keywords: Linguistic transfer, Transfer, idiom, opaque idiom, translation
