This study examines the translation competence of 20 Iraqi prospective translators in rendering five English culture-bound expressions (CBEs) into Arabic, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates quantitative analysis of translation accuracy with qualitative thematic coding of errors. The research focuses on idioms (hit the hay), dictums (you are what you eat), proverbs (putting all eggs in one basket), metaphors (blood is life), and similes (life is like a box of chocolates) to evaluate cultural and linguistic proficiency. Quantitative analysis of the data employed a 4-point rubric, incorporating frequency analysis and inter-rater reliability assessments (Cohen’s κ = 0.81) to ensure the validity of the findings. Quantitative analysis indicated that 69% of translations utilised literal renderings, whereas only 24% attained pragmatic equivalence. Qualitative analysis, guided by functional categorisation of CBEs and principles of pragmatic equivalence, identified recurring errors such as cultural misalignment and over-literalism. The findings underscore systemic gaps in cultural training and advocate for curricula emphasising dynamic equivalence and immersive cultural learning. This mixed-methods design offers a comprehensive framework for addressing challenges in translator education by combining statistical rigour with profound contextual interpretation.