By: Jenifer Lloyd
Jenifer holds degrees in English literature and translation studies and has worked in the translation industry for more than 25 years, first as an in-house translator, then as a freelance translator, and now as the founder of Lloyd Language Services, a provider of custom language solutions.
What is the Native-Language Advantage?
I hold dual Danish-American citizenship. I’ve been a professional Danish/English translator for more than 25 years. I’ve owned my own boutique translation agency since 2010. And I speak fluent Danish with very little accent (for an American 😉).
And yet, when someone asks if I can translate from English into Danish, I always say, “Nope. I only translate into English. However, my talented team of native Danish translators are ready to help”.
But Why Not Translate Into My Second Language?
After all, Denmark is full of native Danish speakers who are fluent in English and have no problem writing in and even translating into English, especially now that they have AI to save them from making any serious errors (or so they think).
And what about when AI-generated texts and translations are edited by non-native English speakers? The results must be better than the original, lifeless English produced by the machine, right?
Not quite.
Because “Good Enough” Just Isn’t Good Enough
Basic translations by non-native speakers can sometimes be “good enough” in the sense of being passable information standard. So can AI-generated translations and machine translations edited by non-native speakers. But the quality is never as good as a non-native thinks, because they just don’t know quite enough to be able to judge what’s missing, overdone, or just plain “cringe”.
- They don’t know how to play with the language.
- They don’t always take tone, style, and register into account.
- They don’t spot cultural references that aren’t readily translatable.
- They don’t recognize classic pitfalls, like false friends.
And the list goes on… At Lloyd Language Services, we only use native-language translators because we believe “good enough” is never good enough.
We strive for – and you should expect – the kind of excellence that only native speakers can deliver. We call this the Native Language Principle, and it’s how we give you the native-language advantage.
Here’s An Example
Have you ever felt uncertain about which pronoun to use and when in English?
Native speakers have an intuitive grasp of such subtleties. And of the shifting cultural norms currently taking place.
By translating only into their first language, our native-language translators can utilize the full breadth of their communication skills, cultural understanding, and linguistic knowledge. They’re experts at capturing tone-of-voice, using metaphorical language, and employing the finer nuances of grammar – elements that tend to stump non-native speakers and LLMs alike.
And Another Example
Say your text contains a reference to something unique to Danish culture, like fredagsslik – what do you do?
A. Translate it literally – and risk alienating your readers, who have no idea what you’re writing about.
B. Replace it with something similar from the target culture – but if so, what??
C. Drop the reference altogether and accept that the translation just isn’t as colorful as the original.
All three could be the right answer, depending on the context.
An experienced translator knows exactly when that reference might be kept, for instance, with some sort of explanation (fredagsslik is a bowl or bag of candy enjoyed by kids and the young at heart while chilling in front of the TV on Fridays). They also know if an alternative reference would work better (popcorn might work in some contexts). And if neither option is just right, they know how to add color elsewhere in the translation to make up for what is lost by dropping the reference altogether.
The Native-Language Advantage
The benefits of using native-language translators doesn’t stop at words and grammar. Native speakers are rooted in the culture of the language they speak, and they can tap into their knowledge of cultural values to get your message across and steer you clear of misunderstandings.
At Lloyd Language Services, a key aspect of our focus on Human Intelligence means working solely with professional linguists who can use their native-language advantage, draw on a lifetime of experience, and take their culture and yours into account. We work with the very best to provide quality translations and quality service.
Native-language translators have an edge, and we want that edge for your projects.
Curious to learn more about the native-language advantage? Drop us a line and find out how it can benefit you!
More Insights…
Our native speakers can help you with:
Translation & Transcreation
Brilliant translations transcend language and cultural barriers. As native speakers, we create precise, engaging, and fluent translations aimed at your target audience.
Proofreading & Copy Editing
Professional proofreading and copy editing give your message that final touch, making it perfect and boosting your credibility. This ensures your readers focus on your message – not your mistakes.
Copywriting & Consulting
Write directly to your target audience in their own language. Our native speakers provide inspiration, creativity, and advice so you can find the right words to make sure your message gets heard.
The Human Touch in Translation Services
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What is the Native-Language Advantage?