In the Greek text, the expression translated in Good News Translation as the other disciple is literally “the other disciple who was well known to the High Priest.” Since, however, this same expression occurs in verse 15, it seems better from the standpoint of English style to say “the other disciple.” The Greek text repeats the expression who was well known to the High Priest for emphasis.

The girl at the gate is one word in Greek. The word may be either masculine or feminine; however, since it is used with the feminine article, it is definitely feminine in this context.

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on the Gospel of John. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1980. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .