The aim of this special issue is to bring together different research endeavours in translation studies dealing with similar phenomena and to propose a common conceptual roof under which they can communicate. The editors suggest the notion of collectivities to integrate research interested in the manifold roles translations (practices and theories) play in the construction (formation, maintenance, and dissolution) of groups, communities or identities of different size, stability and duration, ranging from national/ethnic cultures to genders, political movements, religious gatherings and multilingual dinner parties.