Data Dictionary Space Constraints
A fixed amount of space is available for most data dictionary items. Alpha and row descriptions are allotted 40 characters, and column descriptions are allotted 20 characters for the top translation field and 20 characters for the bottom translation field.
Although the translation might fit within the space allotted in the data dictionary translation tool, it might not fit in the space allotted in the Form Design Aid (FDA) Translation Tool. In other words, not all forms allow 40 characters for controls.
A data dictionary item can be used on many forms, and those forms might allow different amounts of space. The data dictionary translation tool finds the form that allows the least amount of space, and displays the amount so that you can enter a translation that will fit in all forms. If you exceed the space available, a warning message appears.