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Top 3 Challenges in Translation

by Olufisayo
Challenges in Translation

The translation is pretty challenging in itself. The focus, speed, precision, you need them all to be a successful translator. But even if you have a lot of experience, there are situations when a translation is tough, no matter how many documents or speeches you have translated. Let’s talk about the ultimate challenges in the world of translation.

Ridiculous translation

Humour might be the most challenging thing to translate. A sense of humour depends heavily on the culture, character of the crowd, and proper delivery of the joke. It is hard on the paper, and even harder when you translate on the spot.

Sometimes there are no words in which you can express a funny part of the material, so you have to be able to come up with the equivalent of the joke that is also appropriate for your audience. To get the joke right could be considered an art.

Words that don’t exist

Languages evolve pretty quickly, primarily English. New words and phrases are being created every month. But not all languages evolve with speed like that. You may find yourself in a situation when there is no equivalent of the word you need to translate in another language. And what should you do? Maybe describe it or not translate that bit at all? That is what you call a challenge.

Phrasal verbs translation

This might be only a challenge at the beginning of your translation career, but not necessarily. There are too many phrasal verbs to have an answer ready for all of them. The experience might help, sure, but in general, there will always be a phrasal verb you don’t know waiting to destroy your perfect translation.



Fortunately, there are many professional companies doing translation, like Lighthouse online, that can help you out if you face any challenges. And in the meantime, if you would like to turn yourself into a translation pro, check out the graphic below.

Challenges in Translation

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