Translation

For those of you who don't know, (and trust me, there are many who don't), translation is moving the written word from one language into another. 

Interpretation is what most people often think of when they hear the word translation, which is of the spoken word.

The two fields are similar, but if any of you speak or have tried to learn a second language, speaking and writing are two very different accomplishments. For those interpretors out there: props to you, because that is something I could never do.

When learning a second language, more often than not speaking is the last part that really clicks. We are taught first by reading and writing. This is where living and being surrounded by the language you want to learn really comes in handy.

Now, fluency is one of those terms that really cannot be defined. It is an always-moving target, and to keep up with a language, you must always be learning. In your native language, this is also true. You continue learning by Facebook, articles, speaking with friends or at work. You are surrounded by a constant flow of information. The same idea for a second language. And it is surprisingly quick and easy to lose it as well.

What types of things need to be translated? Anything and everything. This is why when you choose this career, everyone says to pick a SPECIALIZATION. This is key. No one is an expert in everything, and to have a great translation, you need to know what it is you are translating. Personally, I stay far away from law and medical fields. These are areas where you do not want to get the translation wrong, and I simply do not have a lot of interest in those fields. If I did I would have gone to school for that.

There are so many ins and outs of translating, so many do's and don'ts, so stay tuned for following articles on tips and tricks of the trade!