What is a translator? What does a translator do?
Though this answer may seem obvious, the work of a translator is often misunderstood and unfortunately, underrated.
The truth is that translating is more complex than it appears. On a technical level, a good translator is skilled at understanding the source language, then using tools, dictionaries and reference materials to deliver that material clearly and accurately into the target language while taking into account the purpose and audience. A good translator should also have near-native proficiency in the target language (preferably in the source language too), excellent writing skills and a good, if not a deep, cultural understanding of the languages they work with.
Translators also need to pay great attention to detail and have sound research skills, not to mention self-discipline to meet deadlines, even tight ones. And translators need to be skilled proofreaders, editors and revisers, as well as be super computer users. They also need to create consistent, catchy copy depending on the context and the audience.
With the arrival of artificial intelligence (AI), many people think they can now translate their own documents. Not so fast! While AI can be a good translating tool, it lacks precision and nuances, and even makes mistakes. I’ve tested it on different occasions with various types of texts, just to see the results. I guarantee that, if I solely relied on AI to translate my clients’ documents, I would lose my clients very quickly. Here’s a hint: AI lacks basic human qualities, the understanding of context and nuance.
Enough said about AI. Back to us translators. Did you know that translators and interpreters have different roles although they are often confused? The major difference is that translators work on written documents (computers) and interpreters deliver oral translations. We don’t do it solely for the money. We do it out of love for what we do. You will find that most translators are quite passionate about their work. We strive to deliver our best work, every time. We are picky and finicky about words, context and syntax. Translators will find the proper translation – or meaning – to render your text idiomatic and engaging for the reader.
Did you know that Canadian and British spellings vary from American spellings? For instance, in Canada, you’ll want to write centre instead of center. And that’s just one example. Some other examples include glamour instead of glamor, fuelling instead of fueling, night instead of nite and cheque instead of check. Believe me, there are so many that I must check twice sometimes.
Translators also act as advisors. Because rules, syntax and grammar can sometimes be tricky, we are happy when our clients check in with us, either for confirmation or reassurance that they are using the proper terminology. We will often revise original documents, do fact-checking and make adjustments or suggestions where needed. It would be unprofessional for us to translate part of a document accurately, without informing you that your unrevised original document contains mistakes or lacks precision.
Becoming a translator happened naturally for me. I’ve always loved writing (most translators are good writers) and studied literature. I initially wanted to become a journalist, but my life took a different direction. Over the years, because I had strong Anglophone roots, I found myself translating here and there, until I realized I had a knack for it and started doing it more and more. I then became a full-time translator for a company and took training courses to hone my craft. Several years later, I became a freelance translator and have never looked back.
Being a freelancer gave me the freedom to look after my family and our many pets (feel free to read my article entitled “My Life with Animals”), while earning a good living. But any freelancer will tell you that it comes with its share of worries. It’s not like having a regular and stable income. Freelance work has ups and downs, and it is often all or nothing. You need to learn to ride the wave when it comes (which can be overwhelming and intense) and enjoy the lull, which I’ve grown quite fond of over the years.
Still, most people don’t fully appreciate what our work involves. Here’s a quick anecdote about that. Some years ago, my husband asked me if I had time to translate something for him, to which I said yes, of course. He then sent me a 30-page document, saying it was due in three days! I laughed out loud. He replied, “But you’re quick and efficient.” Even my husband had no clue (he does now). And no, I didn’t translate his document.
One thing is for certain, translators love language and words. I would be curious to see how many of my peers find leisure-reading to be work, in the sense that simply reading to relax is difficult at best. I always find myself studying the syntax and the wording, often editing the text in my head and writing down or memorizing interesting words. It takes a really good story for me to completely let go.
Rest assured, although I don’t have an actual degree in translation, I have a related degree and plenty of experience. I have taken many classes and workshops, and I have become certified with OTTIAQ. Don’t take my word for it, read what my clients have to say or better yet, hire me and find out for yourself!
Opmerkingen