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Translation means converting the meaning, the intent, and the style of a source text (English) into a target language (French), respecting grammar rules and syntax. It’s not a word to word translation, but a complex process that considers the purpose and the context of the content as well as each language’s standards.

Localization goes even further. It is more about rewriting the text into a different language and adapting your message in a way that is culturally appropriate and connects with the target audience more effectively. Localization is widely used for websites, mobile apps, and marketing materials.

What does an excellent translation involve?

• Excellent language proficiency: A good translator perfectly understands her working languages; however, she always translates into her mother tongue: the only one she knows best in all its subtleties. That’s why I only translate from English to French. 
• In-depth knowledge of her field of specialization: No one can talk about anything and everything pertinently. Specialized content requires a specialized translator who understands the concepts and the jargon used in your field, to avoid mistranslations and ensure you get a quality text. In addition to this, further research about the specific topic will often be required.
• Intercultural skills: People from different countries think different. Your translator is also your cultural advisor. She knows her language’s cultural connotations and has learned those of her second language, over the years, after spending a lot of time abroad. She can decipher these words hidden between the lines which need to be conveyed too!
• Smooth communication: Your translator becomes your voice in a foreign language. She needs to understand your goals and the purpose of the task that you have entrusted to her to be able to get into your skin and convey your message as if you were writing it. That’s the reason why I will always ask you to answer a few quick questions before I start working on any project.

Most people will know what it’s like to read a bad translation: clunky, unnatural writing that may lack consistency and, in the worst case, can be challenging to understand. In contrast, a good translation can be much harder to spot simply because the reader should have no clue that the text has been translated; it reads like it was initially written in the target language!    

Getting It Right is a short booklet published by the Institute of Translation and Interpreting. It is useful for clients who want to make the right choices and get the best results from the translation process. Download (PDF): Getting-It_Right-EN