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Abstract
This paper analyzes pauses before reading numerals in a sentence in a foreign language. In other words, the main aim in this article is to measure the amount of thinking time before translating three-digit numbers as well as other reading behaviors like chunking numerals during first language (L1) – second language (L2) translation in either direction. There are studies showing translation from L2 into L1 is easier. Many people might have also experienced that they pause before reading numbers while reading a sentence in a foreign language. Does processing numbers in a foreign language take longer time compared to one’s own native language? Depending on the proficiency level and the age of acquisition of a foreign language, reading numbers written in digit form or letter form must show differences in both directions in translation. In this paper, only seventeen bachelor’s degree students studying at an English translation and interpreting department in Turkey were analyzed. The results indicated that the duration of pause before reading the numerals in sentences out loud in the constant flow of reading in L2 (English) or translating them is longer compared to that in L1 (Turkish). Besides in English, unexpected behaviors such as reading the numbers wrong were recorded while and before reading numerals and translating them in L1 (Turkish) as well. Therefore, the results suggest that translating numerals has challenges for both directions of translation.