If you want to friend request a German friend of a friend, reach out to a potential employers in their native language or otherwise help move Facebook into a more global realm, translation is one of the biggest obstacles. It seems that the standard foreign language phrases like j’adore are no longer cutting it for Facebook users, and now click to translate for posts is readily available. In early April, the option to translate your post became available, but some users report that, even beyond the issues of mistakes and cultural translations, the tool is full of bugs.
According to Facebook user Fabricio Ferrero, who was one of the first to test out the feature as both a page administrator and general user, the option appeared but didn’t actually work. Is Facebook working toward a more comprehensive translation service, or will it tap out around Google’s level? Google Translate and other such tools can work quickly and in informal settings to get your general idea across, but it should not be confused with genuine translation services.
A Slip of the Tongue — or Keyboard
One recurring problem seen throughout any tech-based (not human-based) translator has been that embarrassing mistakes can be made. With word-by-word translations, the message can turn into a mess, and cultural translations cannot be incorporate via these methods. Even a phrase like “I love you” can easily be turned into nonsense in languages that don’t really have a direct translation of the word love.
It is unclear whether or not Facebook users have been itching for a translation service. If they have, this may not be what they had in mind. What is the use of translation if you cannot be guaranteed your meaning is relayed correctly? Facebook may be able to tout it as an online tool for international love affairs, businesses and entrepreneurs, but wade into these waters carefully.
The Trouble with Shortcuts
Facebook’s feature is, of course, free and you get what you pay for with translation services. Translation provides no shortcuts or means of saving big bucks. It is half skill, half art and assumes that the human translator is equally adept in at least two languages. Cultural understanding is required, which can often only be obtained by total immersion in the country in which the languages are spoken.
Facebook’s efforts should not be brushed aside, but it is important to remember that a quick and free option does not promise much clout. Users who simply want to wish their friend abroad a happy birthday can probably get by with the click-to-translate button. However, for anything more, a true translator is the best bet.
Don’t accept free translation tools for your important international communications. Let the experts at Verbatim Solutions provide you with high-quality translations without any nonsense.
