A professional translator does so much more than simply convert words into another language. A professional translator conveys the meaning of the words, the feelings behind them and the writer’s intention into another language. Sometimes this may mean using completely different examples.
For example, some writers like to use expressions from their favourite sport to get a point across. But not every sport is known everywhere, and not every sporting term can be used everywhere or even translated without losing its meaning. In such cases, a different expression must be used in the target language – one that still conveys the same feeling.
Accuracy is of the utmost importance in medical translation. Are the figures correct? Is the correct spelling used for the target audience and the target country? Are the correct articles cited in that legal text? Are you translating the rule as it stands, or are there different rules in the country for which the translation is intended?
How do you translate a tourist brochure so that it will also appeal to the target audience in another country? What cultural conventions do you need to bear in mind? These are all things a professional translator will take into account. That is precisely why a professional translation will be more convincing.
