Languages

Written communication in a language not your own involves Translation. When translating from a foreign language into your own language there is some scope for automation. But translation from your own language into another normally requires the help of an expert, as explained below.

Spoken Communication, other than informal conversation, will usually require the services of an Interpreter.

In neither case will it be easy to check the quality of the services provided, and great care is therefore required in selecting the providers. Some background may be useful.

Translation. Because of the expensive, embarrassing, and possibly highly publicized consequences of getting things wrong, written translation should be done by specialists. Moreover, all translation or interpretation into a foreign language should be undertaken by someone whose mother tongue it is and who is up to date on slang and idiomatic usage. Otherwise, embarrassment is likely.

Informal conversation. If your contacts in other countries are prepared to converse in your language, so much the better. But, however fluent they may be, they will draw on a different pattern of experience from your own and will not think as you do. To avoid misunderstandings, try not to speak too fast. Avoid slang or metaphors derived from sports that are not played in your client's country. Jokes or wisecracks do not translate easily. They are seldom understood and can easily be taken amiss.

Formal negotiation. Even if you speak your client's language fairly well, do not try to proceed without an interpreter. Never rely on the other party's interpreter. Make sure that yours is competent, familiar with the subject under discussion and fully briefed on your objectives. This is not an easy combination to achieve. Using an interpreter entails added expense, slows the proceedings, and causes some loss of control. However, with an interpreter, you can concentrate fully on the substance of negotiations and gain some extra time to think over what you will say. Any linguistic knowledge of your own may help to check how well the interpreter is performing and perhaps you can pick up some of the internal discussions on the other side.

We can undertake translation from many European languages into English, and quickly get help for translations from and into other languages. Or we can help you to find qualified interpreters and make best use of their services. If you have further questions, we shall be glad to provide specialist advice. Use our telephone support line in urgent cases, or let us know your requirements by on-line form, or through the e-mail link below.

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