3 Localization Errors Certified Translations Help You Avoid

3 Localization Errors Certified Translations Help You Avoid

Document translations are part of a process that goes so much further than literal translations. Cultural significance, local lingo, and general translation experience all contribute to a successfully certified translation.

Let’s take a closer look at localized translations and four of the most common errors a certified translator can help you avoid during your translation process.

What is Localization?

Localizing a translation means that your translation process takes into account the key cultural differences between a document’s original language and its target translation.

As you’ll see below, even a grammatically correct translation can result in a cultural disaster. Therefore, working with a certified translator can help you convey the right message to your translation’s target demographic. 

3 Localization Errors Self-Made Translators Usually Make

It’s easy to make critical mistakes during a document translation. Yet, some of the most egregious errors occur where localization is necessary.

Here are four examples of localization errors that you can avoid by working with a certified translator.

Reliant on AI Translators

AI translators may seem like useful tools in everyday conversations. Yet, when it comes down to producing a culturally specific translation, tools like Google Translate will often let you down.

Machine translations often leave out localized essentials like:

  • Context
  • Idioms
  • Slang
  • Regional language differences

Also, machine-generated translations tend to be riddled with spelling and grammatical errors. No matter how useful an AI translator seems, it often ends with a low-quality translation that most organizations will deem unacceptable.

A certified translation from a translation company will use its expertise to ensure that your translation is widely accepted by any organization. At Certified Translation Dallas, our process is so stringent that we’ve never been denied by any major educational or governmental institution.

Word-for-Word Translations

Taking the time to produce a verbatim translation on your own is an impressive feat, but likely won’t properly get your message across.

Translated locations, names, and brands can all have different translations that vary based on their use. 

We won’t get into it here, but several direct brand translations had to make quick adjustments due to their inappropriate verbatim translations in a target country. 

An example of a verbatim translation that wouldn’t work can be through the Apple brand. The Apple brand name doesn’t change in translation. Therefore, a Spanish translation that refers to the brand as “Manzana” would be incorrect.

Misinterpreting Tone

Failing to take localization into account can result in lost translations that completely misinterpret the tone of an important document. With the wrong translation approach, a casual tone in your document can easily come off as a negatively authoritative tone. This would cause your document to completely miss its mark and leave a bad impression on your target audience.

Localize Your Translations Today With Certified Translations Dallas

If you have documents you need to be translated, make sure the job is done professionally with Certified Translations Dallas. Our team of translators is fluent in multiple languages and can help you achieve the nuance your document deserves.

We offer quick turnaround times and excellent rates. Reach out to us today to submit your document and start our world-class translation process.