1. A method of translating an expression using a computer, the method comprising: applying to the expression a temporal translation grammar, wherein the applying comprises: identifying a temporal element of the expression using at least one recognition rule; normalizing the temporal element of the expression to create a normalized temporal element using at least one normalization rule; and translating the normalized temporal element into a date using at least one translation rule; and wherein the temporal translation grammar is operable for use in a first translation context and a second translation context, wherein the first translation context is different from the second translation context.