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Lost in Translation – Different Types of Translation Defined
The translation industry is in a constant state of evolution. Translation agencies are often becoming specialists and concentrating in one area of translation. So, if you were looking for a free translation service or information on online translation, this guide of the different terms may help you in your search!
- Administrative Translation – This term refers to translation of administrative text – a very broad term. For translation, it refers to the common terms and texts used within businesses and organizations that they use in day-to-day management.
- Commercial Translation – Sometimes called business translation, commercial translation covers any sort of document used in the business world such as letters, company accounts, tender documents, annuals reports, etc. Oftentimes, commercial translations require specialist translators with knowledge of terminology used in the business world.
- Computer Assisted Translations – Individuals and businesses often turn to free translation tools offered online to translate phrases or documents. Behind the online translation tool, a software program analyses the text according to predefined linguistic rules and reconstructs the text in a different language according to the corresponding rules of the target language. They do not produce perfect copy of the submitted text in another language.
A free translation service or online translation tool can never substitute a human translator and should only be used when you want to translate text written in a foreign language into your native language or a language you understand.
- Computer Translation – Refers to translations of anything to do with computers such as software, instructions and help files.
- Financial Translation – For financial based industries, financial translation is the translation of text of a financial nature like banking, stocks, commodities, and investment funds.
- General Translation – General translations are less complicated and the language used is not high level (sometimes called layman's terms). In general translation, there is no specific or technical terminology used. Although these are simpler, they typically are still not suitable for using a free translation tool.
- Legal Translation – Legal translations require highly trained translators as it involves the translation of legal documents such as statutes, contracts and treaties. Not only does the translator need expertise in the translating language, but also they need a legal understanding and an excellent understanding of both the source and target cultures.
- Literary Translation – A literary translation is the translation of novels, poems, and plays. A literary translator must be capable of also translating feelings, cultural nuances, humor and other subtle elements of the literary work.
- Medical Translation – Medical translations are also highly complex and will involve translating medical packaging, textbooks, medical equipment manuals and drug labeling. Specialization is necessary.
Now that you understand the vast field of translation, you might now begin to realize why free translation typically isn’t suitable for most translation requirements. Having a professional translator is necessary in order for your translation to be accurate and professionally prepared. Bad translations can lead to many problems for your organization and can even have legal implications.
To work with experienced professionals with a wealth of experience in all these types of translation, turn to Verbatim Solutions. With an impressive client list, a commitment to exceeding translation quality standards and extremely affordable rates, Verbatim Solutions can be your partner for all your translation needs.