Localization happens when a content is adapted to a particular location. As far as translation is concerned, it means that others can read your content in their own native tongue with ease as if this was written in that particular language right from the start.
Simply put, just having a document translated doesn’t necessarily mean that it is already localized. If your material, information or brand is at stake, it is a must that you understand all the different elements that differentiate a simple translation from language localization required to improve its impact on the target audience.
What’s Involved in the Process of Localization in Translation?
Location in the world of translation includes several crucial elements including the following:
- Adaptation of formality as well as other items of etiquette based on culture
- Modification of punctuation, lexical elements, and grammar
- Ensuring content is culturally relevant and sensitive
- Making sure localized metaphors and idioms replace figurative language
- Formatting values, numbers and others based on local variations
- Aligning conversions like money, dates, time, voltages and the like
- Checking that the format and text adhere to legal requirements
When it comes to content localization, the translator is required to have a complete understand of the language, the culture, and the particular field being referenced by the information. Take note how it as mentioned above that the cultural adaptations are equally crucial to the translation just like grammatical and lexical issues. Local sensitivities should also be taken into consideration to avoid any conflicts with habits, culture, or customs.
Particular terms that could be tailored to local populace are the references to situations regarded as offensive and political leaders, animals, flowers, shoes, gestures, meats, gum, and functions of the body. For example, the Chinese look upon rats as favorably as chickens. Wearing shoes indoors is considered taboo in some countries. Singapore regards gum as illegal while meats are not allowed in some areas. Funny bodily functions can be offensive in other places.
If your texts, project, or documents will be distributed to different locations then translated to various local languages, it would be best to internationalize first. It refers to the process of adjusting or highlighting ideas or text that can be questioned ahead of time to help the translator during the preparation for its translation the local dialect. This process is most effective if carried out during the document’s formulation phase although it can also be done much later on. For papers that will be translated to several languages, this step will help save tremendous expense and time.
It doesn’t matter if your documents will undergo an intermediary step or they will be translated directly to the local language, it still remains important to hire a translation company that has a good understanding of the importance of a comprehensive and meticulous process of localization during translation.
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