Translation occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell, specifically on ribosomes.

Quick scoop

  • In eukaryotic cells (like animal and plant cells), mRNA is first made in the nucleus by transcription, then moves into the cytoplasm where ribosomes carry out translation.
  • In prokaryotic cells (like bacteria), transcription and translation can happen almost at the same time because there is no nucleus; ribosomes bind mRNA while it is still being transcribed.

Where exactly in the cytoplasm?

  • Free ribosomes float in the cytosol and translate proteins that will function inside the cell.
  • Bound ribosomes are attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and translate proteins destined for secretion, membranes, or organelles like lysosomes.

In short: translation happens on ribosomes in the cytoplasm , whether those ribosomes are free‑floating or attached to the rough ER.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.