Source: https://www.pexels.com/ru-ru/photo/1925536/
If you manage a business with international customers, you may be thinking of localizing your product and asking yourself what it means. In some cases, most business owners are already using a translation tool designed only to translate content on a specific page into several languages. They do not adapt the content to cultural standards.
Many people believe that translation and localization are interchangeable. But did you know that these two terms have different meanings? In the article, we will speak about it in detail.
Translation Services
Generally, translation means converting content from one language into another, for example, French to English or vice versa. Translation services are used when you need to translate a document without cultural considerations.
But we cannot deny that the translation process also involves some localization. Translators do not translate every word. Sometimes it does not make sense, and linguists have to find a proper equivalent to convey the idea needed. So, translators can use other words that they think are more suitable to the sentence to make it more accessible and understandable.
It is why most businesses choose professional online translation. Such services have professional native-speaking translators who make sure the quality of the translation meets all the standards.
Most of all these services are used for translation of different types of documents and materials, for example:
- Scientific journals
- Training manuals
- Technical publications
- Medical documents
- User or instructional manuals
Localization Services
Some people may be confused and think that translation and localization are the same. But despite being related, they are different from each other. The translation is a part of localization.
Localization also means converting a text from one language into another one. But the materials are adapted to specific linguistic and cultural nuances. Localization is one of the essential elements for business owners who are eager to enter new markets and advertise their products and services there.
One good example of localization is the adaptation of British English to American English. This process of localization does not involve translation at all. American English and British English are both English, but what made the two different lies in their text spelling and word pronunciation. Also, some words may be non-identical but have the same meaning. For example, cookies in American English and biscuit in the British version have one definition.
Another example is the localization for the Asian market. In this case, you need not only localize the content but also all the visual materials. This market likes colorful pictures. Also, culture in Asia differs, for instance, from the European one. It is why all small details should be changed to make the product look “native”.
Here are some areas where localization is used:
- Idioms
- Date formats
- Expressions
- Currency units
- Spelling
- Metric vs imperial measurements
- Cultural references
- Vocabulary
- Colors
What Is The Difference Between Translation and Localization?
Localization and translation are two related terms with some differences. Localization refers to converting the speech from one language to another using words that suit the cultural differences of a particular country.
It is also the perfect service to meet cultural expectations, as well as an essential element you should consider, especially for creating advertisement campaigns, launching new products in a new market.
The translation is also a tool that eliminates communication barriers. It works by delivering the same meaning by finding synonymous words for the specific text from one language to another. Its main goal is to provide readers with the actual meaning by altering the words.
As mentioned, professional translation is the perfect service to use for writing literature reviews, scientific texts, content with technical and legal terms, medical publications, and manuals. Professional translators should ensure the text meaning remains accurate, so the native speakers of the target language will understand the content.
Lastly, if your goal is to convey an idea, translation will be enough. If you need to adapt the content for foreign clients, you should consider localization and choose a localization service that will help you reach the goal.
Professional Translation vs Localization Services: Which To Choose?
Do you own a website and publish different content weekly? Do you target local or foreign countries? If that is the case, you may think about translation and localization services.
Choosing whether your product needs localization or translation services will solely depend on your needs and goals. The translation is ideal if you usually publish highly technical texts or guided instructions. Such content does not have any cultural aspects. Your clients will need just to understand what you are speaking about.
On the other hand, if you have or want to have foreign customers, a localization service might be perfect. It is also worth noting that translation may lose your content meaning and true intent.
So, suppose you want to expand your company reach and find clients worldwide. In that case, localization fit you better, as it accommodates your potential clients’ cultural practices and norms.
Final Thoughts
Nowadays, many website owners hire companies that could provide them with professional translation or localization services. Despite being different, translation and localization services are two critical elements in the modern environment. You may need them even if your clients live in one country.
In Canada, for instance, some residents speak French while others are English speakers. Even though the whole population can understand English, it would be more appealing to them if your content was written in French so that the other group would understand its meaning better.
Ensuring that your content is localized or translated into another language without altering its real meaning can help you encourage your future clients to be your paying customers. It will help you immensely, especially if your competitors are not using it to their advantage.