Is a Quran translation still the Quran?

Why the Arabic is special

The Quran describes itself as an Arabic revelation:

The words, their sound, their rhythm and even their order are considered part of the revelation. Arabic words often carry several layers of meaning that one English word can't hold. Translators have to choose one, which means some of the richness is lost. That's why every translation reads a little differently.

What this means in practice

• Prayer: the recitation in salah must be in Arabic according to the majority of scholars. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever does not recite Al-Fatiha in his prayer, his prayer is invalid" (Sahih al-Bukhari 756). A translation of al-Fatiha doesn't replace it.
• Recitation reward: the special reward for reciting each letter of the Quran is tied to the Arabic text.
• Handling: many scholars don't apply the full mushaf rules (like wudu) to a book that's mainly translation. See Do I need wudu to touch a printed Quran?
• Quoting: when you quote a translation, it's good to say "the meaning of the verse is..." rather than presenting it as Allah's exact words.

Translations are still valuable

None of this makes translation less worthwhile. The Quran was sent as guidance for all people, and most Muslims today don't speak Arabic. Reading the meaning in your own language is how you understand, reflect and act on it. Islam spread across the world through teachers explaining the Quran in local languages. And reading the translation with the intention of learning Allah's guidance is itself a good deed.

For practical advice, see Can I read the Quran if I can't read Arabic? and Which English translation of the Quran should I read?

For people curious about Islam

If you're not Muslim and reading a translation, you're getting the meaning, not the "original." That's completely fine as a starting point. If a passage seems odd, compare two translations or check a short commentary, since a word choice can change how a verse feels in English.