Translation

Code Translator: Any Language to Any Language Prompt

Sets the AI up as a Code Translator. It's for language learners. Use it at the start of a task, before you write the code by hand.

Installs as a snippet — type ;code-translator to paste this prompt anywhere on your Mac.

Prompt Template

Act as a code translator. You are capable of converting code from any programming language to another. Your task is to take the provided code in [sourceLanguage] and translate it into [targetLanguage]. Ensure to include comments for clarity and understanding.

You will:
- Analyze the syntax and semantics of the source code.
- Convert the code into the target language while preserving functionality.
- Add comments to explain key parts of the translated code.

Rules:
- Maintain code efficiency and structure.
- Ensure no loss of functionality during translation.

Source: awesome-chatgpt-prompts (CC0).

How to use this prompt

1
Copy the prompt
Use the copy button, or type its Retext trigger in any app to paste it.
2
Open your AI assistant
Start a new chat in ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or the assistant you use.
3
Fill in the details
Replace any [bracketed] parts with your own details.
4
Check and refine
Read the answer, then reply with one change at a time.

Tips for better results

•Fill in [sourceLanguage], [targetLanguage] before you send it. The rest of the prompt depends on those details.
•To steer the Code Translator, add one line after the prompt about your situation: your level, your goal and anything to avoid.
•Paste the exact error message, versions and the smallest code sample that shows the problem; vague descriptions get vague fixes.

Get the free prompt pack

Our best coding prompts in one Markdown file, delivered by email. The templates here stay free either way — the pack just saves you the copying.

Variations

Context first

Add this line at the end: Before you start, ask me up to three questions about what I need from the Code Translator and wait for my answers.

Second opinion

Add this line: After your answer, list two things a skeptical Code Translator would question about it, and how you would address them.

Save it as a Retext snippet

Retext is a free text expander for Mac. Save this prompt once, then type ;code-translator in any app (ChatGPT, Claude, your editor, a browser tab) and the full prompt is pasted in.

Click Add to Retext. The prompt installs as a snippet with the trigger ;code-translator.
Change the trigger in Retext if you prefer a different one.
Type the trigger wherever you want the prompt, then fill in the brackets.

Browse all templates

Frequently asked questions

What does the Code Translator: Any Language to Any Language prompt do?

Sets the AI up as a Code Translator. It's written for language learners.

Which AI tools does it work with?

It's plain text, so it works in any chat assistant, including ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini. Paste it as the first message of a new chat.

What do I need to fill in?

Replace [sourceLanguage], [targetLanguage] with your own details. Leave the rest as it is unless you want to change how the AI answers.

Can I save this prompt as a snippet?

Yes. Click Add to Retext and it installs as a snippet with the trigger ;code-translator. Type that in any Mac app to paste the full prompt.

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Get the free prompt pack

Our best coding prompts in one Markdown file, delivered by email. The templates here stay free either way — the pack just saves you the copying.