We all enjoy a good laugh when we spot any of the various types of translation fails — a hilarious mistranslation like the Do not Disturb sign in a Russian hotel that says: “Please do not worry!“ Many websites are dedicated to them. Sadly, some people have come to associate translation with clumsy phrases.
But translation fails are the exception. Most translations read better than the original text.
The reason is simple: Translators are highly trained language professionals. Source text authors are smart, but their expertise may not have to do with language. The translation process is often the first time that a linguist touches a text.
In a respectful client/translator relationship, both sides will benefit: There’ll be a great translation, and based on translator feedback the source text may also receive a bit of a face lift.
Forget the fail. Translation works for you. Happy to talk translation any time; get in touch.
