Online translations are problematic when they are used to translate phrases, idioms, or entire sentences. They literally translate each word independently, and do not always preserve the meaning.
The best way to use an online translator is to translate one word at a time, and not attempt to literally translate an idiom. Nielsen Library has a number of dictionaries, and your professor may have a preferred translation resource for students to use.
If your professor does not mind you using an online translator, DeepL is better than Google Translate.
