Translators are professional communicators who translate from one language to another. It can also be a computer program that translates a programming language into another language. Unlike an interpreter who translates spoken language, mostly in real time, a translator must be able to write and research well.
They carry out their work using specialized resources and reference materials. Having the ability to understand the writer’s priorities, they write accordingly – technical, promotional or using specific terminology for internal circulation.
Translators work with private and public companies and are independent. Professional translator usually certified from an accredited association.
Why is Translator Important?
Creative Writing
Fictional novelists want their books to be read around the world, by people of all languages. The translator makes this possible. It’s hard to imagine a world without translators. Many of our favorite novels, fables and classics are written in other languages such as The Alchemist in Portuguese, Heidi in German, War and Peace in Russian, The Adventures of Pinocchio in Italian, Don Quixote in Spanish, Diary of Anne Frank in Dutch , and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in Swedish. The publishing industry would not be successful if it were not for good translators.
Global Trade
In today’s global business environment, companies thrive on international relations. Suppose research is done in a developed part of the world, production might take place in another part. And the actual product is sold elsewhere. There needs to be coordination between different departments in all regions for effective delivery of finished products. Translators play a major role in the global business economy interpreting the concerns of customers, workers and management. Without properly translated communications, we may not be able to enjoy many of the services and products we take for granted today.
Even in the case of small companies outsourcing back office work to developing countries, they need to communicate via voice or video conferencing.
Medical Industry
Another significant and immediate translation effect occurs in the hospital setting. Due to the high quality of health care found in some areas, sick people flock there for treatment. The interpreter must be present to explain to the doctor the symptoms and causes of the disease. Only after knowing the patient’s history can the doctor start treatment and for foreign patients, this is not possible without the help of an interpreter.
Medical reports and research can be done in foreign languages. To be useful for the whole world, it needs to be translated into other languages. Only then can the doctors and consultants there access, study and combine it.
History, Archeology
Ancient Sumerian tablets or Egyptian hieroglyphs might just be pictures if not for passionate and dedicated translators. Historical and cultural studies are very important for the development of our humanity. While English today is the world’s lingua franca of commerce, technology, and diplomacy, it wasn’t always the case.
A good translator is a bridge connecting different cultures. Translation works are an important feature of our literary and scientific community. If we don’t understand each other, we can’t communicate and work together. And if we can’t work together, we can’t progress.
Aoife Farrell is a freelance blogger who writes on business and manufacturing topics. Aoife loves cycling and running.
