Chat syntax for translating code

The chat syntax is: /translate [from <source_language>] to <target_language> (<code reference> | <code snippet>) [additional instructions]

• [from <source_language>] is optional and is automatically detected if not specified in the command. It is recommended to specify the source language if the quality of the translation response is not good enough.

• <target_language> is required. Provide complete language names without spaces, such as TypeScript instead of Type Script or JavaScript instead of Java Script.

• (<code reference> | <code snippet>): Along with a target language, you can include either a code reference or a code snippet. Use one reference or snippet at a time.

  • <code reference>: Refer to a file, method, or class name from active workspace by using an @ symbol. For example:

    /translate to java @get_metric_type
    

    When you reference a method, watsonx Code Assistant supports certain code languages. Referencing a full file works for all languages. For more information, see Language support when you work with methods.

    When you reference a file, the size limit is 50 KB. If you reach this limit, split the file into individual functions and reference each function. Or, split the file at 49 KB, taking care of function boundaries, and reference the file at each split. With either approach, you need to merge the results.

  • <code snippet>: Use a code snippet from your editor or paste a code snippet.

    To use code snippet from your editor:

    1. Highlight the code in the editor.
    2. Right click to show the pop-up menu.
    3. Choose watsonx Code Assistant.
    4. Choose Add selected code to chat to insert the code into the chat where you are starting the /translate command.

    To paste a code snippet:

    1. Find the code you want to translate.
    2. Paste the code into the chat where you are starting the /translate command.

• [additional instructions] are optional.

  For example: /translate to java @get_user_list Copy the comments from this function to the translated code