Translation is an essential aspect of global communication, enabling people from different cultures and languages to understand each other. Similarly to the way that machine translation aids translators (more on Man vs Machine in this article), I have used the help of ChatGPT, a large language model trained by OpenAI, for inspiration in the discussion of different types of translation. These comparisons are intended to be light-hearted and humorous, while still emphasizing on the impact that translators have and the skills they must master, much like the correlated fields of work.
Interpreters are the superheroes of the translation realm, swooping in to save the day by facilitating real-time communication. They can be likened to comedians, as they must be quick-witted to interpret jokes and idioms. However, as with comedians, a single slip-up can lead to disastrous consequences. Quick thinking and spectacular situational and cultural awareness are not enough though – an interpreter is always on the stage when working and should act accordingly.
Dubbing, subtitling, voice-overs – audio-visual translators are the actors of the translation world. They must match the tone and emotion of the original content, a challenging task when the actors are over-the-top, or the script is overly melodramatic. Not only that – they also have to match the length, making the task particularly challenging for certain languages.
Literary translators are like poets, as they must capture the beauty and meaning of the original work in a new language. They may spend hours agonizing over the perfect word choice, much like a poet crafting a poem. This translator should have “an understanding of multiple discourses, a wider comprehension of the matter” (more about authorial intent and its impact in translation in the article here) but should be well equipped with the creative mind of a poet.
Legal translators must be precise and meticulous, for even the slightest mistake can fundamentally alter the meaning of a legal document. They can be compared to detectives, as they must carefully investigate and interpret every word. They put their name on the line by guaranteeing the legality and correctness of the text.
Technology translators bridge the gap between different cultures and languages in the tech world. They can be compared to engineers, as they must comprehend technical jargon and translate it into language that is understandable to people who may be unfamiliar with the technology. These engineers have to introduce new technologies, introducing new concepts not only to the audience, but also the language.
Marketing translators can be compared to salespeople, as they must sell a product or idea in a different language and culture. They may employ creative language and catchy slogans, much like a salesperson delivering a pitch. They need to know what works and what does not, while also attaining to the client’s expectations.
The most sensitive and personal information is a task health translators must bear. They must be empathetic and understanding, as they translate medical information and documents for patients. They can be compared to therapists, as they must provide compassion and comfort. They may spend hours poring over research papers and scientific journals, understanding the complex subject matter while carefully mastering a compassionate and sensitive tone of voice.
Much more complex and diverse than many people may realize, the field of translation requires far more than a single language extra. From interpreters who must be quick on their feet to literary translators who pick each word with poetic intent, each one plays a critical role in helping people communicate across different languages and cultures. Despite the strong hold technology has on the world today, the impact of people and their own personal skills is not to be overlooked.
AUTHOR: Tsveta Georgieva, translator and transcreator at SLSP Ltd.