January 10, 2019

As global communications increase, so does the need for communication in multiple languages. And when your company is in need of translation services, it’s important to know exactly what it takes to produce a professional translation. Here are several concepts about translation and the experts that perform them which you should understand when you’re looking for the very best in translation services:

1. Translating versus interpreting

Translation is the process of transferring written communication from one language to another, while interpreting involves performing this procedure verbally. In both instances, the linguist must be highly trained and experienced, taking years to perfect their skill-set in specific areas. Expert translators, for instance, usually specialize in one or more areas. These include translation for the legal, medical, business, and marketing industries, as well as for educational and scientific sectors.

2. Post-machine edits: The human touch

As most businesses are aware, automated translation services are available through Google and through various software brands. However, examples of poor translations abound as a result of humans and machines alike providing a translation that is far too literal. That’s why you never want to have your company’s documents translated exclusively by machines. In fact, never accept translations that have not gone through intensive post-machine editing by qualified human experts.

3. The importance of proficiency levels

Rather than thinking in terms of whether or not the translator is a native or a non-native speaker, ask about their proficiency level. This term refers to the linguist’s ability to handle translation tasks in both the original and target languages. These skills include but are not limited to: effectively translating conversational styles; describing complex situations that occurred in the past; grasping and communicating abstract concepts and hypothetical speculations, and accurately using industry-specific jargon.

4. Language registers

Qualified human translators are aware of the different registers of language which reflect context, tone, slang versus standard and professional language usage, and other socio-linguistic features. Furthermore, an effective translation expert has a clear understanding of technical terms of the industry in question as well as the educational level of the content in the original document.

5. Localization

Finally, a properly localized translation has been honed so that it matches the cultural, geographic and regional background of the intended audience. Specifically, proper localization accurately reflects how the speakers in a particular region use vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, grammatical structures, and even word order. Especially in smaller communities, these aspects of language may vary considerably from similar features found in the standard language.

Keylingo Translations offers the highest quality of translation services. Our team of expert linguists has years of experience, profound industry knowledge, and exceptional localization skills. We also offer certified translations, which are frequently required by government organizations, legal agencies, and academic institutions,  For more information about how your company can get the most accurate translations every time, please contact us.