Translation And Localization: What’s The Difference?

[Cristina Parker]

Translation and localization are two such services that rule the global market today. If clients want to sell their product or service overseas, translation and localization is a must! A report suggests that the international language services market will reach a whopping growth of USD 5 billion in the next two years.

Another report suggests that 86% of localized mobile advertisements performed better than English ads. In fact, it also showed a 42% and 22% increase in click-through and conversion rates, respectively. However, many users confuse translation and localization services.

This blog will make our readers crystal-clear on the topic and explore some crucial differences between translation and localization.

Translation

The text or information goes through a literal translation from the source language to the target language in the process.

From documents to multimedia files, everything goes through language change following a proper syntax.

Localization

Localization is an umbrella term that brings translation under its shadow as well! Like translation, localization also changes the text from the source language to the target language.

However, there's a difference. Localization doesn't follow a literal translation process. It also keeps the cultural nuances in mind! It adopts a specific's country's locale and culture to blend in the crowd and be a part of them.

Differences between Translation and Localization

Difference 1

Translation Bridges Language Gaps

Translation focuses more on the language and conveys meaning from word to word. It tries and converts the essence into the exact possible language.

For instance, the translation of the Hindi term "shukriya" would be "thank you" in American English.

Localization is Regional Specific

On the other hand, localization adapts the content and polishes the message to persuade the target audience. From meeting the cultural, functional and linguistic requirements, localization also looks at words, colors, and clothing.

For instance, if your brand releases an ad where a woman is wearing a skirt and promoting a product, it might not go well in the region where women mostly wear burqa and hijabs.

Difference 2

Translation is Neutral

Translation takes a neutral stand across different cultures.

The process only focuses on the language. It includes all cultures and races and ignores culture-specific jargon.

Localization adheres to the Cultural and Functional Requirements

The localization experts consider cultural and functional factors like graphics, currencies, symbols, linguistic content, addresses, date-time, and others.

Difference 3

Translation is Technical

Translation services are best for law, science, research, finance and medicine. Here, one has no requirement to consider the emotional context.

Localization is Emotional

When one localizes a product or service, they need to keep the target audience’s sentiments in mind. Experts localize a product to persuade and build credibility among the audience.

Wrapping Up

Translation and localization are important assets to achieve prominence in the global world. However, both the services don’t fit in every context.

Therefore, clients must get assistance from providers who have in-depth knowledge about both translation and localization. 

Source- https://www.sphere.social/hello/blogs/view/268182