For decades, the Grammar-Translation Method has been blamed as the major contributing factor leading to the low linguistic competence on the part of EFL learners. However, the role of translation in aiding college EFL learners cannot be neglected. Translation in this paper is not translation proper, but is used as an aid in learning writing. The central concern of this paper is the application of translation in the teaching of writing, which is exemplified in four aspects: using translation as a monitoring device; as a guide for writing; as a composition marker; and as a guide for recitation. EFL teachers should not reject translation in its entirety. Rather, they should make the best use of translation to facilitate the students' learning process.
