What’s the Difference Between Translation and Localization?
Posted on Wed, Nov 18, 2009
Lee Densmer is joining us again today (see her previous post on Translation Glossaries), and this time she's introducing a new Lionbridge Translation FAQ, which explains the differences between Translation and Localization. Following is an excerpt, you'll find the link to the complete FAQ at the bottom...
As you take your business global, "translation" and "localization" are two terms you may hear used interchangeably, but there are distinct and important differences. Let's take a brief look at how they differ.
Translation is the process of changing a source version (usually English) of software, documentation, multimedia, or web material into a target-language version (any language) by simply changing the words from one language to another. Unfortunately, it is rarely a word-for-word swap.
A word-for-word translation yields many of the funny or offensive literal translations we've all seen in the marketplace! Take a look at these real examples:
In a Tokyo Hotel
"Is forbidden to steal hotel towels please. If you are not a person to do such thing is please not to read notice."
In a Bucharest hotel lobby
"The lift is being fixed for the next day. During that time we regret that you will be unbearable."
In a Leipzig elevator
"Do not enter the lift backwards, and only when lit up."
Source: http://www.jnweb.com/funny/translation.html
Localization (also abbreviated as L10n) is the translation AND adaptation of material for foreign-language markets. It involves changing words from English to a target language. It also involves analyzing the semantics in the target language to make sure the right thing is said in the target, as well as making sure that a product "works" (functionally and linguistically) in another culture. It is important to remember that the target market is different from the market for which the product was originally developed.
When localizing, a translator (a.k.a. linguist or localization professional) will:
- Adapt the language by creating a linguistic equivalent, not a literal translation
- Assess color for cultural implications
- Change telephone number formats
- Change time/date/measurements to reflect that culture's counting system
Assess and change any icons or graphics that will not make sense in the target culture.
For example, the image on the right shows different mailbox symbols used in various countries.
The end result of localization is a product that:
- Is appropriate for the target locale's business and cultural conventions
- Appears custom built for the end user's cultural and linguistic background
- Does not change the original intended meaning
Read the full FAQ: "What's the Difference between Translation and Localization?"
Lionbridge will publish Translation FAQs regularly, so: