Culture – The Important Factor to Consider For Foreign Translations

In recent years, tide of globalization has brought a boom in the translation ecosystem. Globalization refers to a condition when there is a perfect harmony between localization, globalization and integration. In this harmony, translation acts as a medium of communication between different cultures and facilitates the development of cultural diversity and global consciousness.

The vigor of culture lies in its transmission but unfortunately language barrier across the cultures imposes a major hindrance in its transmission. Here is where role of translation comes into play as it establishes a bond of interdependence between culture and language. Translation itself being a component of culture is a social practice that bridges the gap between different cultures. Since the propagation of translation is associated with the existence of a multitude of cultures across the globe, there is a co-evolutionary connection between the two.

Here are some cultural aspects that need to be considered while translating content:

Connotation of Product Name

While you choose a product or service to market in a foreign country, you should be aware of the connotation of that very “word” in a foreign language. It might be possible that the name of the product has an inappropriate meaning in their culture and may hurt the sentiments of the natives. The significance the name grows more if you are translating the content for a global marketing campaign.

Take Care of Customs and Tradition

Customs and traditions are the inseparable part of a culture and the translator must be aware of the same while doing translations for that particular country. Every culture has its unique customs and traditions for different occasions – marriage, festivals, birth, funerals or some other functions. If a translator ignores the significance of the occasion, he/she can get into trouble. For example, the exchange of kisses is a custom in a Christian wedding while the same is considered inappropriate in Islamic or Hindu tradition and can result in a public outrage.

Significance of Symbols and Colors
Every religion or culture is associated with some pictures, symbols and colors that are considered divine, holy or lucky. At the same time, it might happen the picture which is respected in a culture may have negative connotation in some different part of the world.
For example, In Japan, white is considered as a color of mou
ing and is worn on funerals while in most of the European countries, black color is associated with mou
ing. The same goes with the pictures and symbols. Therefore, a translator should be very careful about the use of symbols and pictures in their translations.

Take the Humor Seriously

Be careful while delivering the humor quotient from the source text to the target text as the target audience might not find it appropriate or might not understand it. It is advised to employ a native translator who understands the societal and cultural environment of that country. If you are using dictionaries, make sure these are published by authentic and recognized publishers.

The Rules of the Language

The translator should be aware of the grammar, vocabulary punctuation, vocabulary and the style of the language especially if you are translating the business or marketing content. It should be expressed in manner the target audience feel associated with. The business enterprises should ensure that they are hiring most reputed and reliable translation service providers. Translation Vancouver and translation companies Ottawa are among the great options when it comes to picking some good names.