A translation task has suddenly joined your to-do list. What do you do? If you’re like most people that don’t have a professional translator service on stand-by, you’d probably look for one on Google. There, you’re certain to find hundreds of services available, including a free one offered by the search engine behemoth itself.
But how do you go on to pick good, or even great translators from the list?
The Characteristics Of Good Translators
Here are some of the main attributes shared amongst all good translators:
1. Possess Linguistic Expertise
Good translators must be native speakers and have a high degree of fluency in all the languages for which they offer translation services. Basic vocabulary and grammar just won’t suffice, and being a master of nuance and terminology is certainly a prerequisite.
2. Handling Evolving Jargon
Languages are continually evolving and adapting to modern culture. Just over 20 years ago, words like selfie, unfriend, or even google would have no place in the Oxford English Dictionary, yet today, these are commonly used in text and conversation.
3. Attention To Detail
Once the translation is carried out, the job is not done. In line with international translation standards, the translator’s work is checked by a reviser to ensure that no comma is out of place, no word is misspelt, and that the meaning of the original document is carried across faithfully to the translation. One such error or omission could have incredible consequences.
4. Understand Technical Lingo
The translation must not only understand the languages being translated, but also the specific technical terminology used in the specific domains.
Qualities Of Great Translators
The great ones are able to do more than just translate text accurately. Here are some of their abilities:
1. Translate Culture Appropriately
Great translators have an in-depth understanding of more than language. They have an acute appreciation for the cultures that helped form and shape particular dialects and regional peculiarities.
2. Have Experienced Mentors
Translation is as much an art as it is a science, and great translators take years to develop. Just like in any other profession, personal development does not stop, and being able to count upon the expertise of experienced colleagues and technical experts.
3. Carry Out Research
Particularly challenging or complex translations require that the translator carry out research to obtain additional technical expertise. Such a requirement is commonplace in translations that involve law, science, finance, and other similar domains.
Forget Google And Speak To Transcripta
If your translation task has any value whatsoever, don’t risk it on a free or just a good translation service.
Transcripta’s multicultural team of professional translators has an unparalleled appreciation for languages and cross-cultural communication. We have more than 20 years of experience in translating for highly specialised industries, including legal, financial, medical, marketing, i-Gaming, technology and political.
Our team operates in a supportive environment where we love what we do, and we continually help each other to be better.
Benefit from the unique qualities of a local translation service by getting in touch with us today.
