Localization with wordzz: More Than Just Translation
What do hasty, run-of-the-mill translations have in common with products such as Google Translate? They often generate unintentionally amusing phrases that make no sense in the target language. What makes us different? Rather than a basic one-to-one translation, we offer localization you can rely on. Not only do we adapt your texts to the target language, we also assimilate them to the conventions of the target country.
What’s the Difference between Translation and Localization?
The difference between translation and localization is easy to summarize. Translation involves the direct transfer of a source text into a target text—without particular regard for how naturally the syntax or core message of the text might come across in the target culture. A generic translation doesn’t pay special attention to features such as date formatting, units of measurement or imagery.
This is where localization steps in, bridging the gap. The final text fits into the target culture by utilizing familiar idioms, brand slogans or similar elements that are characteristic for the country.
The objective of localization is to preserve the meaning of the original text, even if this means that the sentences cannot be translated one-to-one. Of course, in localization, that’s not a bad thing. After all, the target text is intended to serve and appeal to a different, international market—and this can only succeed through localizing the text. This is something we understand well at wordzz, so it’s no question that we offer this service.
Examples of How We Localize Texts
Localization involves paying special attention to aspects such as these:
- Letters that aren’t used in the target language are replaced as appropriate. For instance, when a German text is translated into Swiss German, the letter “ß”—which isn't used in Swiss German—is replaced by the corresponding letters “ss.”
- The format of phone numbers and dates is adapted to the target country’s conventions.
- Units of measurement are converted to those more widely used in the target country.
- If necessary, symbols appearing in the source text are replaced with ones that have the same effect in the target culture.
- Figures of speech and idiomatic expressions in the source text are not simply translated into the target language literally; rather, an equivalent phrase is used—one that has the same essence and is common in the target language.
How You Benefit from Our Localization Service
At wordzz, our linguists are based all over the world, placing them right in the heart of the particular target culture. They are well acquainted with the possible stumbling blocks and know how to reformulate texts to make them suitable for the target market. Plus, they are native speakers of the target language, whose natural feel for the language flows directly into the translation, making it sound authentic. We want texts to elicit the same response worldwide, rather than being a source of unintended amusement. Our localizations by experienced native speakers around the world make this possible.
Did you know that localization can also save you time and money? Translations that are already adapted for a particular target culture can be adjusted to the situation in other countries with ease. This offers you a convenient possibility for addressing multiple target groups around the world with a single text. Perhaps we’ve already translated a white paper or a brochure for you, originally intended for the British market, and now you’re interested in having it adapted for the American market. No problem! Rather than starting from scratch, we can handle the important task of localizing the text for you. Having the text adapted for another target market costs you less than commissioning a completely new translation.
Multiple Localizations of a Single Text = Less Expensive Translation
Do you want to reach several international target groups at the same time with a single text? We’d be delighted to take on the task! We offer special pricing on package options that enable you to send your text on a journey to multiple countries throughout the world at the same time. Not only will you get the best out of your text for each particular target culture, but you’ll also save costs compared to ordering individual translations. Contact us for further information!
About Our Team of Linguists
- Degree or comparable qualification in the field of linguistics
- At least three years of professional experience (most have over ten years of experience)
- We care about assigning projects to the right translator (native speaker). This way, our translators always work with topics that suit them and that they enjoy. And this is evident in the quality of the translations they produce.
- Our linguists are located around the world and have direct ties to the countries where they are based. This is a great advantage when providing translations geared toward a specific country.
