: Can there be multiple translated versions in the same language of a public domain book? I was thinking about a translation of a book that is in the public domain. The author is Adam Smith.

I was thinking about a translation of a book that is in the public domain. The author is Adam Smith. There is already a French translation of some of his works. Does this mean that I cannot publish my own French translation? Does the existence of a French translation preclude the creation of another? Do I have to use a language that it isn't translated into?

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@Connie138

Yes, you can.

As stated by others, public domain works - by definition - don't pose limits to uses and reuses. As long as you don't use other translations' solutions or passages (i.e. you don't copy other translations, which would infringe the copyright of the translation, but not of the original work) you're fine.

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@Samaraweera193

Public domain books are no longer under copyright protection and can be used by the public as they wish without fear of copyright infringement. There are classical books that have multiple translations to the same language. However, before starting such a project, I would suggest that you ensure that your translation would be an improvement in some way from the original translation.

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: Can there be multiple translated versions in the same language of a public domain book? I was thinking about a translation of a book that is in the public domain. The author is Adam Smith.

More posts by @BetL639

: How to interpret editor feedback? I've just received the written feedback from an editor in a large publishing house. On the whole it's very critical, with the occassional "could be good" thrown

: Help! I have no 'cheese-meter'! Over the past few years, it has come to my attention that I lack the ability to identify cheese. And by cheese, I mean cheesy things in movies/books. I simply

: Is there any financial advantage to translating my book myself? I can speak a few languages and I am just about done with my first manuscript in English. Since I found the translation fun

: I really like this question but I don't think you will be able to completely eliminate the "cool" factor. Look at most horror films. They all end up commercialized for costumes and certain

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