In the modern of world, most people go straight to Google Translate for their basic translation needs, and that is okay. What you should never do is reach for it, and similar platforms, when you have to deliver of receive a professional translation copy. You have to consult with a professional translator to get the job done. Many individuals and agencies exist, like for example The Word Point.
Page Contents
Language is Not an Algorithm
Languages serve to communicate meaning between speakers. We use various words and their combinations to express our complex thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If you depend only on Google Translate when you encounter a foreign language, you probably encountered countless errors and mistakes. Languages are formulaic, and some are easier to translate, while others are very hard. However, all of them came out of a need of context,which computer will never truly be capable of understanding. Languages are inseparable from culture and social environment of the people speaking them, and therefore organic, breathing, and constantly evolving. Simple artificial algorithms cannot be used to define or translate language, and therefore computers cannotgive us true translations.
You Need Professional Eyes
You may sometimes feel you are competent enough to see obvious errors. Or perhaps, you might believe simple solution will do. Remember that not all native speakers are good proofreaders, and if you are not a native speaker of a language, you cannot see all the problems in a translation. Even more so, it is not enough to simply become proficient in a foreign language. You must also know how to write well in it, meaning you have to master the grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Errors Lose You Customers
When customers get bad translations, your whole business is in danger. Losing that one customer is one thing, but having a bad reputation in the whole business is another. Handling translation without professionals sends out a message that the company does not have the needs or interests of customers on their collective mind. Why do business with a company like that? It is both cheap and unprofessional.
Errors Cause Misunderstandings
Copying texts and handling them is how most businesses communicate and make deals with the customers. Therefore, everything must be clear and crisp, in order for the communication of the messages to be understandable. The copy provides the customer with information about your products or services. If it is not translated and organized properly, it result in confusion, misuse, and misunderstandings. In medicine and pharmacy for example, misunderstandings are extremely dangerous. The customers must be able to understand everything about the product, meaning the translations should be done by professionals only. Bad translations may hurt your business a lot, which is costly. It is always better to invest in a proper agency, like The Word Point, and be safe.