Code Language Translator

The Prompt

Translate the following code from [SOURCE LANGUAGE] to [TARGET LANGUAGE].

Rules:
1. **Idiomatic:** Use target language conventions, don't write "Python in Java syntax"
2. **Equivalent behavior:** Same inputs must produce same outputs
3. **Note differences:** Flag where languages handle things differently:
   - Type system (strict vs dynamic)
   - Error handling (exceptions vs Result types)
   - Concurrency model
   - Memory management
4. **Dependencies:** If the source uses a library, suggest the target language equivalent
5. **Testing:** Provide a simple test to verify the translation is correct

Format:
- Original code (commented)
- Translated code
- "Translation notes" section explaining non-obvious decisions

Source code:
[PASTE CODE]

How To Use It

Specify both languages clearly. For large codebases, translate module by module and ask the AI to maintain a “translation dictionary” of how concepts map between the languages.

Why It Works

Naive translation produces code that compiles but feels wrong. By requiring idiomatic output and explicit notes about semantic differences, this prompt produces code that a native developer of the target language would actually write.

Variations

Architecture translation:

I'm migrating from [FRAMEWORK A] to [FRAMEWORK B]. Translate this component while adapting to the new framework's patterns and lifecycle.

Syntax comparison table:

Create a side-by-side comparison of how [LANGUAGE A] and [LANGUAGE B] handle: variables, loops, functions, classes, error handling, and async.

Migration guide:

I'm moving a codebase from [SOURCE] to [TARGET]. Create a migration checklist covering: syntax changes, library replacements, build system updates, and common pitfalls.