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in the original

idiom

Definition of in the original

: in the language used by the original writer
  • We read Homer in the original, not in translation.

Word by Word Definitions

original play

  1. : the source or cause from which something arises

  2. : that from which a copy, reproduction, or translation is made

  3. : a work composed firsthand

  1. : of, relating to, or constituting an origin or beginning : initial

  2. : not secondary, derivative, or imitative

  3. : being the first instance or source from which a copy, reproduction, or translation is or can be made

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