Top 10 Tips For Foreign Language Translation
When translating content from one language to another, there are several factors to consider. These factors include the context, style of the original language and the nuances of the language to which you are translating. Here are the top 10 tips to avoid confusing or insulting your audience in your language translation.
1. Do not accept jobs in which the content is specialized. Fields such as law, finance, medicine and engineering have unique language. This will not only cost you extra time if you do not specialize in a given topic, but it may also affect your reputation if the translated terminology is incorrect.
2. Mimic the original writer's style. This will ensure that there is consistency of content from one language to the next. It will also guarantee that the work is just as effective in the destination language as it is in the source language.
3. Use concise, common language to be most effective. Avoid superfluous words and write in the active voice whenever possible. Read your translation aloud to gauge its rhythm.
4. Be careful with metaphors and puns. U.S. English sports metaphors such as "strike out" and "home run" do not have the same meaning in German, for example, if you translate the text word for word. Likewise, puns will only confuse the reader or listener. Translate the general meaning, not the exact words.
5. Look for acronyms. Are you writing about English as a Second Language (ESL) or Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)? Likely, these acronyms will not be the same in Spanish. If you can not find an equivalent in the language to which you are translating, perhaps the client can clarify.
6. Research websites, phone numbers and timeframes. It is too often that a translated catalog will be delivered to a customer with a phone number or website that is only meant for U.S. English-speaking customers. Similarly, verbiage that references the Eastern Time Zone does not apply to people residing in Spain.
7. Beware of units of measure. An American might not know that 50 meters is 164 feet, since he or she is accustomed to seeing things measured in feet or yards.
8. If you are concerned about certain phrases or terminology within the text that you are translating, consult a dictionary or specialist. If you are not a native speaker of the destination language, ask a native speaker to review your work.
9. Proofread your foreign language translation before sending it to the client. Companies rely on well-worded, accurately-spelled, fully-translated content. Anything that is sub-par can make them look unprofessional and damage their reputations.
10. Keep a good electronic dictionary handy, either online or on a disc. This will save you time when you are searching for the right word or term. Some of these dictionaries will even allow you to add your own phrases for future reference.
With the right amount of preparation and research, you can submit a polished foreign language translation to your client.
For more information on language translation, go to: http://www.codexglobal.net/translation