Through years of experience, we have compiled 5 translation tips. You can also get professional help on all kinds of translation and interpreting from Language Direct.
Translation is certainly one of the most difficult language exercises. It immediately reveals the linguistic knowledge and literary sensibility of the translator.
Translation Tips to Improve your Skills
- Tip #1 – Always strive to widen your vocabulary. This is one of the most basic and important thing you should do in order to be able to translate a text accurately.You need to have good vocabulary knowledge in both languages. One of the ways to achieve this is to regularly read in both languages and learn as you go along.
- Tip #2 – Know the idioms specific to each language. It would be best to also learn the proverbs and the metaphors. One way to do this is to interact with the people speaking the languages and learn from them.
- Tip #3 – Have a good knowledge of the grammar and structure of the two languages. It is necessary to master the time and the syntax of each language so that you are able to convey the appropriate sequence of events and meanings accurately. Don’t forget to practice and observe the differences when it comes to grammar and sentence structure of the two languages.
- Tip #4 – Don’t forget to get an overview of the text before you begin translating. This is probably one of the translation tips that is commonly overlooked. In order to translate a text from one language to another, it is vital that you first make a detailed analytical reading. The time at which the text was written must also be noted because language is constantly evolving.
- Tip #5 – Pay attention to the narrator’s point of view — travel in time, the characters and the places mentioned. Understand the spirit of the text. These characteristics are important to accurately translate the text.
We’re hoping that you find these useful as you discover the world of translation. If you wish to be good at translation, just remember these translation tips and practice constantly to hone your craft and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be.