FREE TRANSLATION RESOURCES

What is Translation?


For a comprehensive understanding of the various facets of Translation, visit Wikipedia's definition of Translation.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Translation

Translation & Interpretation Tips


TIPS WHEN BUYING TRANSLATION SERVICES

1. Is it a verbal or written translation that you need? For verbal translation, you use an Interpreter and for written translation, use a Translator.

2. More information about what to think of when commissioning the services of an Interpreter Agency, visit here.

3. For translation services, send the document to the Translation Agency for scrutiny when asking for a quote. Find out about the Confidentiality Policy of the agency prior to sending the document. For more information about what to think of when commissioning the services of a Translation Agency visit here.

4. If you need a quick translation quote over the phone, you will need to state the language combination, the number of words, the subject matter and what will the translation be used for. Click here for an automatic free online translation.

5. Determine that the translation agency holds the right accreditation (see ATC below) and that it's translator or interpreter holds the right qualification.

6. Always insist that the language the translator is translating into is his or her native language.

7. Try not to do the translation yourself or not to ask someone who happens to know the language to translate it for you. You will end up regretting it as it is not as easy as you think and this will reflect on quality. Translation requires skill and a creative approach. It's not enough to know the language, there are specialist means and tools which make a translation good: A. Dictionaries (physical or electronic), B. Structuring the work, C. Defining the style and vocabulary. D. Understanding the meaning of the source text and translating it accurately and in context with the target market or country it is intended for. E. Proofreading the translation by another native translator, and finally... F. Experience: A good translator 'knows' how to translate to get straight to the point.

8. Above all, the quality of a translation relies on a well-written and easily readable source text. For example, make sure that your source document is internationally orientated and avoid play on words or references which will be difficult to translate. It would help if you provide the translation agency with your lexicons, glossaries, terminology, if applicable, or any additional documents that might help the translator in his/her work. Work as a team with the translation agency as the synergy created between the client, and the translation agency allows for an optimum end product.

9. Allow enough time for the translation. Translators spend a lot of time researching to get the translation correct. Rush jobs will inevitably carry some mistakes. On average, a good translator can translate 1500 to 2000 words per day (equivalent to 4 or 5 pages) but allow at least a minimum of 2 to 3 days for any job as translators are usually busy and have to schedule jobs in. For instant translation, use an automatic translation tool but expect quality to be bad. Click here for a free automatic translation tool.

Country Guides


Learning more about the culture and customs of the people your translation is for will ensure accurate delivery of your intended message.

The BBC provides full profiles and a quick guide to the history, politics and economic background of countries.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/country_profiles

The ATC


The Association of Translation Companies. Founded in 1976, the ATC is, perhaps, one of oldest professional groups representing the interests of translation companies in the world. It is dedicated not only to representing the interests of translation companies, but also to serving the needs of translation purchasers.

www.ATC.org.uk

Chantal Pule Traductions - France


Our sister translation agency in Paris.

www.chantalpule-traductions.fr

FCO - Foreign and Commonwealth Office - Legalisation


Information about the Legalisation services the FCO provides - including confirming the legalisation/signature authenticity of documents before these are taken abroad.

www.fco.gov.uk/legalisation

More information can be found on our website

www.experttranslators.co.uk/certified-translation/translation-certification.html

Google Translate


Free online Translation tool to a number of languages from text or web pages.

http://translate.google.com/translate

Communicaid


Communicaid is a culture and communication skills consultancy. They enable their clients to create profitable international relationships by building cultural bridges that enhance understanding and establish trust. With over 15 years' experience of assisting the world's leading corporate and public sector organisations to work successfully across borders and cultures, Communicaid is a global communication skills company operating across all 5 continents through offices in London, Paris, Frankfurt and New York as well a network of affiliates and like-minded partner organisations worldwide. Their areas of expertise include:

www.communicaid.com