In order to better understand the specifics of written translations, it is worth knowing what they are. The main division of translations is their division into oral and written translation. This is a very general classification based on the method of translation. Depending on the form of translation, such skills must be used by the translator. Just knowing a foreign language is not enough.
Well, generally speaking, written translations consist of oral translation of a text from a source language and its translation into a target language. The translation process is carried out in writing.
When translating, the translator must take into account not only the meaning of the words, but also the cultural context and the purpose of the translation. Most often we meet with written translations. And they apply to all possible areas of life. Classifying the types of written translations, they can be divided into:
- regular transfers
- sworn translations
- specialized translations
- machine translations
Interpretation is based on the translation of an oral text. Since the source material for translation is written text, for interpretation it is oral text in real time. The translator’s workplace is also different.
What are the types of interpreting?
Interpreting is divided into consecutive interpreting and simultaneous interpreting. Consecutive interpreting means that the interpreter first hears a fragment of the speaker’s speech in the source language. Then the speaker pauses while the interpreter translates his speech into the target language.
Simultaneous translation is different. Here the translation takes place in parallel with the original statement. Most often, we encounter simultaneous translation at international conferences or business meetings.
They are often referred to as poster translation. Why? During translation, the interpreter performs translation in a separate room and hears the spoken text in headphones. At the same time, he translates the message to the recipient into the microphone.
This type of translation requires not only fluency in this foreign language, but also great composure and concentration. It is also one of the most difficult types of translation.
Types of written translations – sworn and ordinary translation
This classification determines the existence of translation in the context of law. This separation of translations is related to whether the translated text is formal or private. Official documents are all kinds of official, legal and judicial letters.
These are also the documents on which the validity of the certification depends. Private, on the other hand, are all those documents that do not have these features.
Sworn translations.
They are also referred to differently as certified translations. This type of translation applies to all official documents such as official letters, notarial deeds, diplomas or vehicle documentation. These are all documents, the certification of which is necessary for formal purposes. Certified translations are performed by a sworn translator. In Ukraine, to become a sworn translator, you must pass a state exam and obtain a license to practice this profession.
The translator is included in the list of sworn translators maintained by the Minister of Justice. Practicing as a sworn translator comes with a lot of responsibility for translation. Such a translator certifies with his seal and signature the validity of the document and its compliance with the law.
Sworn translations are very formalized due to specific terminology and professional vocabulary. That is why they are most often used in legal transactions. They are most often made for the needs of government agencies – courts, departments or prosecutors. Individuals can also have their documents certified by a sworn translator.
Standard translations.
They apply to all informal letters. This is how private letters, spoken language and literature are translated. Standard translation refers to texts that do not require the use of special terminology.
We meet with them very often on a daily basis. They are used in the current information circulation. Translation of texts can be performed by any translator, even if you do not have the qualification of a sworn translator.
Specialized translations
This type of translation is one of the most difficult. The translator is required not only to be fluent in both languages, but also to have knowledge in this field of translation. Most often specialized translations concern technical texts.
These are translations of operating instructions, technical and operational documentation or scientific dissertations. However, technical translations are not the only type of specialized translation. Such a translation may cover various fields and specializations.
They are also often used as medical, business, accounting, legal or marketing translations. Such a translation requires from the translator not only knowledge of languages, but also special terminology and knowledge of the nomenclature characteristic of this area.
That is why specialist translators are often people who also have a professional education. So, medical translations are more often done by doctors, legal translations by lawyers, and technical translations by engineers.
They are outstanding specialists in this type of translation. Specialized texts are very complex, and a simple literal translation is not enough. The right strategy and the need to use professional nomenclature make them a huge challenge for translators.