translate, reason, circumstance, case
訳 centers on converting something from one form to another: translating language, or giving a reason or explanation that makes a situation understandable. The 'circumstance' and 'case' senses are natural extensions of explaining why something happened.
訳 is the modern simplified form of 譯. The older form combines 言 (speech) with 睪, which likely contributed the sound and the idea of interpreting or explaining. The modern 尺 shape is a simplification and should not be treated as the original historical component.
Words 言 are measured and converted like a ruler 尺: translating speech or giving a reason that fits the situation.
For ヤク, imagine a yak translating ancient texts in a Himalayan monastery: yak -> ヤク, and the yak's words make the meaning clear.
reason; cause; grounds
apology; excuse
translation
excuse
interpretation (i.e. oral translation)
to translate; to interpret
itemization (of expenses); the items; breakdown; classification
English translation
Japanese translation
literal translation; direct translation
free translation; liberal translation
translation equivalent; equivalent word in translation; translation (of a word); gloss
mistranslation
translator
translation into Japanese
translation and annotation; translation with notes
original text with its translation printed side by side or on opposite page
new translation
translated sentence; translated passage; translation; version; rendering
abridged translation