Writing for translation begins with the creation of a high-quality source document. While the usual rules for written English apply, there are some guidelines to follow when creating source material for translation, which simplify the entire process.
Here are 12 ideas to create documents that are simple to translate and for audiences from all over the world.
Short sentences improve comprehension and lower the risk of making mistakes. It is easier to put shorter segments of text in a sentence than in long ones. To improve readability, make sure you write twenty words or fewer.
This includes using a verb, subject, and object with modifiers. Be sure to review your basic English. The consequences of mistakes can be aplenty across the world. It is important to read your writing.
Active Voice is clear and easy to translate. Active Voice uses fewer words. A lower number of words means a lower rate of error, as well as the cost of translation is lower. Words such as "by"'" and "was" reflect an inactive voice.
Proofread the work you write. This helps avoid mistakes in translation and reduces the chances of making mistakes. Also, convert words to pages to discover how many words per page you currently have. Be sure that punctuation and grammar are correct, and then polish your text.
Writing the same concept in various ways can affect the overall quality of the translation. Translation memories use words in segments, which means that even changing a small word could have an impact. Re-using content that's already been translated lowers the probability of error and can save time.
Slang, jargon, and jokes are not always translated well. It's the same for metaphors and regional terms. The translators on another side of the planet are clueless about the American language.
Write the month in the correct order to ensure that there is no confusion. Don't leave readers wondering if you are referring to the 3rd day of February or the 2nd day of March. The style guides you agree to can help you make sure this message is consistent across the business.
Do not think that an interpreter will be aware of the intended audience. Give background information that is not readily apparent to other people. For instance, formality in address is an essential aspect of Japanese culture and language, and a Japanese translator needs information on the audience in order to ensure that the translation has the appropriate tone.
Avoid abbreviations or acronyms unless they are explained or defined when they're first used.
The use of these verbs tends to make translations more complicated. For instance, you should make use of "met" rather than "ran into." Phrasal verbs are often used in multiple ways and are more informal.
English text is typically smaller than other languages, meaning enough space is required to expand into other languages, sometimes as high as 35 percent! This is crucial for interfaces to software and graphics. The differences are not only in the length of sentences, however, but also in the individual word length. Some languages have big compound terms. Making plans ahead will save you both time and money.
This is a process that requires some time, along with practice and mastery. When the stage is established in the direction of translation, then you will be able to focus on the process of translating and refining the information to fit your target audience. The best suggestion is to cooperate closely with your company that provides language services. Offer all the tools and reference materials that your team requires. If you do this, you will get a better-quality translation.