How can I generate a PO file for a plugin or theme?

You can generate a PO file for a plugin or theme by using the Theme and plugins localization feature in WPML.

Are you a developer looking to turn your PHP, JavaScript, or React-built themes, plugins, and custom client websites multilingual? See how to prepare your code for translation and easily create translation files.

What is a PO file?

PO file contains a list of all texts in a plugin or a theme. Translators then use CAT (Computer-assisted Translation) software or an online service to translate the texts in PO files.

Can I use WPML to translate my PO files?

Yes, WPML also offers its own software translation tool, Free resource files translation. Part of the PTC (Private Translation Cloud) project, this free and efficient tool instantly translates your PO files into multiple languages, making it ideal for quick translations during theme or plugin development or for delivering a custom multilingual website.

How can I generate a PO file for a plugin?

Before you start, make sure you have WPML core and WPML String Translation plugins installed on your site.

Use the following steps to generate a .po file for a plugin:

Go to WPML → Theme and plugins localization.
Select the plugin you want.
At the bottom of the page click Scan selected plugins for strings.

When scanning is done close the pop-up dialog and click the create PO file button next to that plugin.

Save the .po file.

How can I generate a PO file for a theme?

Use the following steps to generate a .po or .pot file for a theme:

Go to WPML → Theme and plugins localization.
Select the theme you want.
At the bottom of the page, click Scan selected themes for strings.
When scanning is done close the pop-up dialog.
Go to WPML → String translation.
In the Export strings into .po/.pot file section select the text domain of that theme. You can also select whether you want to include the translations.

Select the theme's domain — Select the theme’s domain

Click the Submit button.