Translations using AI?
Not on your nelly!
Now try running that expression through an online translation tool and you’ll quickly realise that if your text is anything other than straightforward, then AI won’t give you the answers you’re looking for. Only a native speaker has an in-depth understanding of the subtleties of the English language, including stylistic elements such as tone, language style and cultural references. I discern all important aspects of the original text and ensure they are reproduced accurately in the target text.
/01
Translations
Appealing, idiomatic translations enable you to engage with your English-speaking audience. I draw on my linguistic skills, varied experience and cultural awareness to help you communicate to best effect. Every project begins with an exchange on what and who your text is for. I’ll also conduct extensive research to gain an in-depth understanding of you and your business. Allowing me to create clearly comprehensible texts with maximum impact.
/02
Proofreading
A line-by-line comparison ensures the meaning has been conveyed appropriately and the desired effect achieved. I read through your English translations and check that nothing has inadvertently been omitted; correct mistranslations, typos and grammatical issues; and rework any inelegant formulations. Then I re-read it all over again to check that it flows well and will appeal to your English-speaking readers.
/03
Editing
A final review is an absolute must prior to publication or printing. I carefully read through your texts already in English to catch any linguistic oversights and make only minor tweaks to the language to ensure the tone, style and register are appropriate. Where I feel it would be beneficial to readers, I’ll suggest improvements to the language and phrasing to make your text read even better. Especially texts written by several authors can benefit from a final consistency check.
/04
Final review
A painstaking check to eliminate any remaining minor blimps. I perform a meticulous final review for linguistic errors, numbering or formatting issues, and inconsistencies before you send your work off to the printer or publisher. If desired, I’ll also go through the citations, headers, references and footnotes.
My approach:
The four steps to success.
01.
Initial contact
What exactly do you need? And, perhaps most importantly, by when? I’ll review your documents and put together a non-binding quote for your consideration.
02.
Briefing
If you’re happy with my quote, then we’ll agree a realistic deadline and discuss the project details: Who’s your text for? And what purpose should it serve? You can also stipulate which variant of English you require (British or American English). Should you have any reference materials (e.g. existing translations, background materials or useful links), then please share these with me. I can gladly use your in-house style guide and/or glossary, or help you to create these to ensure consistency with past – and future – projects.
03.
Project completion
I’ll either begin working on your text immediately or pencil it into my schedule so that I can get started as soon as I receive the files from you as arranged. Each project begins with a read-through of the document(s) and preliminary background research to (re)familiarise myself with the topic along with a review of your website and online search to gain an understanding of your business and sector. If I’ve worked with you before, I’ll use any glossaries I created again. If the same texts come up again, I’ll ensure they’re translated consistently. I’ll begin preparing a first draft for your project, meticulously researching terms and expressions as I go. I may need to touch base with you briefly in case any questions come up. I’ll then review the draft translation with fresh eyes, refine the text until I’m entirely satisfied with it and also flag up any errors or inconsistencies I spot in the original texts.
04.
Finalisation
Once the text is finished, it’s time for publication. Is everything to your satisfaction? Or do you still have questions or requests? Will you maybe be needing further assistance in the future? Share your feedback with me.
Time to be proactive!
Get in touch today
to discuss your projects
