How to Easily Create a Multilingual WordPress Theme and Website

Last updated on November 30th, 2023 by

Imagine your website as a global ambassador, breaking down language barriers and connecting with audiences worldwide. The ability to speak your audience’s language enhances user experience, boosts engagement, and opens up new avenues for growth. Creating a multilingual WordPress site isn’t just about translation; it’s about cultural inclusivity and expanding your digital footprint.

Would you like to translate your WordPress site into various languages? Thinking about where to begin?

No, you do not need to set up a multi-site or have separate WordPress installs for each language. You will be able to easily translate your WordPress posts, pages, tags, categories, and themes into as many languages as you like.

Making a Multilingual WordPress Website (Human Translation)

From the outset, I am going to share that you completely customize your theme for using multilingual language easily.

Write or copy simply below that code and paste it into your theme functions.php file …

add_action('after_setup_theme', 'my_embassytheme_multilingualsetup');
function my_embassytheme_multilingualsetup(){
load_theme_textdomain('ezbing', get_template_directory() . '/languages');
}

Then you edit your all text in functions.php and other pages look like …

On the function page :

Previous code  'name' => 'Default Sidebar',,

Edited code 'name' => __( 'Default Sidebar', 'ezbing' ),

In Others page :

Previous code  Powered by

Edited code   <?php _e('Powered by' , 'ezbing' ); ?>

After completing this you install all pages then you use some plugin for the language change option in the admin panel. I have suggested some plugins that install very simply. But I like the Polylang plugin.

You can download it from the WordPress plugin page. ( totally free )

How to add Polylang Plugin – See Details Here 

( If you can change your theme text in the admin panel you have to use some plugin such as Loco translate Plugin )

Step-by-Step Guide for Multilingual

Step 1: Choose the Right Theme:

Begin your multilingual journey by selecting a theme that supports multiple languages seamlessly. Themes like Glittering, Astra, OceanWP, and Polylang are popular choices due to their compatibility with translation plugins.

Step 2: Install a Translation Plugin:

Enter the realm of plugins, where magic happens. WPML (WordPress Multilingual), Polylang, and TranslatePress are excellent options. Install and activate your preferred plugin, and watch as your website transforms into a polyglot powerhouse.

Step 3: Configure Language Settings:

Navigate to the plugin settings and configure your desired languages. Most plugins allow you to add languages easily and set a default language for your site. This step lays the foundation for a user-friendly, multilingual interface.

Step 4: Translate Content:

Now, the heart of the matter – translating your content. Most translation plugins provide user-friendly interfaces that enable you to translate posts, pages, and even custom post types effortlessly. You can either manually translate content or use professional translation services for accuracy.

Step 5: Optimize for SEO:

Don’t forget the SEO aspect of your multilingual site. Configure your plugin settings to ensure that search engines recognize and index your translated content correctly. This step is crucial for reaching a wider audience and improving your site’s visibility.

Step 6: Implement Language Switcher:

Enhance user navigation by adding a language switcher to your site. Most translation plugins come with built-in language switcher options, allowing visitors to easily toggle between languages and explore your content in their preferred language.

Step 7: Test and Refine:

Before unveiling your multilingual masterpiece to the world, conduct thorough testing. Check for any inconsistencies in translation, broken links, or formatting issues. User feedback is invaluable during this phase, helping you refine and perfect your multilingual WordPress site.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully transformed your WordPress site into a multilingual marvel! By embracing diversity through language, you’ve opened the doors to a global audience. I hope this guide propels your website to new heights, fostering connections with users from every corner of the world. Cheers to a future filled with international success!

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