Professionally usable translations are achieved by careful analysis of not only the text but also the context. Knowing where the translation is to be published, the purpose of the text and the intended audience are all vital in creating a product that functions appropriately in a second language. The process of gathering this information is called Needs Analysis and is most successful when performed together with the client in the form of a translation brief.
- What is the function of the text?
- What is the purpose of the text?
- When and where will the text be published?
Why not just use Google Translate?
Language and Cultural Bias in the form of Content or Text
Machine translation is quick, cheap and easy. Why? Because it completely disregards the concept of culture and the impact culture has on the way we formulate not only politeness, but also the way we formulate and express ideas. A professional translator analyses the needs of the client and seeks to meet these needs through their profound knowledge of the source and target language and culture:
- What is the desired register and style?
- Are there core assumptions or presuppositions that need further clarification?
- What are the desired convention markings? Metric vs Imperial? European? American vs British English?
- What is the degree of literalness? Any metaphors or analogies?
Other Specific Needs and Requirements
- What is the desired response from the readers of the translated text?
- What is the one key thing to communicate?
- Are there any special instructions?
- Any context or setting considerations?
At Robinson Translations, we translate more than just words
Robinson Translations 