Shopify i18n Basics

Localization for Shopify themes requires organizing JSON translation files in a locales/ directory with language-specific files (en.default.json, fr.json, de.json) and corresponding schema files for Theme Editor. Structure keys consistently across all language files, nest related translations together, and use the Liquid t filter to render translated content in templates.

Content translations live in language JSON files (en.default.json, fr.json) and handle customer-facing UI text rendered via the t filter. Schema translations use separate schema JSON files (en.default.schema.json, fr.schema.json) and define labels, descriptions, and options visible in the Theme Editor for merchants configuring the theme.

The t filter retrieves translation strings from locale files and renders them in Liquid templates. Reference translation keys with dot notation (t 'namespace.key'), pass variables for interpolation, and use t filter modifiers for HTML-safe output. The filter automatically selects the correct language file based on the current locale.

Yes, Shopify translations support variable interpolation and dynamic content through the t filter with parameter passing. Store template strings in JSON with placeholder syntax, then pass variable values to the t filter in Liquid, allowing the same translation key to render different content based on runtime data like product names or customer names.

Use consistent, hierarchical key naming across all language files to maintain structure and prevent mismatches. Organize keys by feature or section (e.g., 'navigation.home', 'cart.empty', 'forms.email'), use lowercase with dots for nesting, and ensure every key exists in all language files to avoid missing translations or errors.

Shopify's t filter supports pluralization through JSON structure and variable logic in Liquid. Define plural forms in translation files, pass count variables to the t filter, and use Liquid conditionals to render appropriate translation keys based on quantity, ensuring grammatically correct output across languages with different plural rules.