Waterfox Localization

Welcome to the Waterfox localization repository! This repository contains the Fluent (.ftl) files used for translating the Waterfox browser into various languages.

Contributing Translations via Weblate

We use Weblate, an open-source web-based translation tool, to manage our localization efforts. Here's how you can contribute:

Getting Started with Weblate

1. Visit our Weblate project page at https://hosted.weblate.org/engage/waterfox/.
2. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Choose the language you want to translate to from the list of available languages.

Using Weblate

1. Browse Translations:

   • After selecting a language, you'll see a list of files or components that need translation.
   • Click on a file to start translating.

2. Translate Strings:

   • You'll see the original text (usually in English) and a box where you can enter your translation.
   • Type your translation and click 'Save'.

3. Use Translation Memory:

   • Weblate will suggest translations based on previous work. Use these if they fit the context.

4. Add Comments:

   • If you're unsure about a translation or need clarification, use the comment feature to discuss with other translators.

5. Review Translations:

   • You can also review existing translations and suggest improvements.

Best Practices

• Stay true to the original meaning while making the translation natural in the target language.
• Be consistent with terminology across the project.
• Pay attention to placeholders (like {$variable}) and make sure to include them in your translations.
• If you're unsure about a translation, it's better to leave it untranslated than to guess.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need assistance, please:

• Check the Weblate documentation at https://docs.weblate.org
• Ask in the comments section on Weblate
• Ask in the Reddit community

Thank you for contributing to making Waterfox accessible to users around the world!

Repository Validation

Before submitting localization changes, run the locale layout check:

python3 tools/validate_locale_layout.py

Locale directories are developer-controlled. tools/allowed-locales.txt defines their case-sensitive canonical names. Create new supported locales and files deliberately in Git, updating the list when adding a locale; do not generate them automatically in Weblate. Zero-byte Fluent (.ftl) files are forbidden. English source strings and translation units are managed in Git.

The Locale layout CI check validates repository layout, not translation quality. Protect main with Locale layout as a required check.

Weblate Configuration

Maintain the following configuration:

• appearance is the sole repository-owning component; the other 13 canonical components link to weblate://waterfox/appearance.
• Use one component per translation file. Back up history and metadata before retiring duplicate components.
• Set new_lang to none and restrict the language filter to the canonical locale list.
• Disable source editing and translation-unit management (edit_template and manage_units set to false).
• Do not install Add missing languages, automatic component discovery, or the squash add-on.