Be it businesses or brands, everyone is aiming for international growth in today’s globalized world. However, the path to this isn’t easy and the biggest obstacle in the way is the language barrier. Due to this, an increasing number of businesses are quickly prioritizing localization and translation.
Are you also ready to embark on your international adventure? Wait! Just like the majority of others, you’ll end up being disappointed. Wondering why? Because despite their similarities, these processes are not the same. Furthermore, to help you understand better, here are the differences between translation vs. localization.
Differences Between Translation and Localization
Since translation and localization are two different processes, here are the major differences you need to know:
- Definition
Translation refers to the process of converting written words or words of a text from one language into another while preserving the ideas and content. For instance, for website translation, all you have to do is change the text to reflect the correct sentences in the target language. In this case, the reference text and the new text have the same general meaning and tone.
Localization, on the other hand, refers to numerous approaches to adapt content’s entire meaning for the new culture. In this, the tone of your writing, idioms and even phrases may be completely changed to accommodate cultural differences. For instance, if you want to make your website easier for users from other countries to navigate, you may have to make technical adjustments and update visual elements like buttons.
- Involvement
Translation involves replacing words, phrases and sentences for their equivalents in the target language. It involves cultural adaption, character encoding and formatting.
In addition to written content, localization involves layout and formatting. It also includes using visuals that are relevant to the target audience. Other things taken into account during localization are date formats, monetary units and measurement units.
- Purpose
When it comes to translation vs. localization, the purpose of translation is to convey the same idea in the target language. It aims to convey the meaning as exactly as possible, keeping the sound natural and not necessarily as impactful.
Localization, on the other hand, converts not only words but also other aspects. This includes meaning, emotion, channel, culture, visual components and context. It involves moving the phrase to a different area while giving the audience a relatable sense.
- Process
Translation alone is rarely sufficient to properly reach your clients in another country. It involves translating texts or words into the target language.
Talking about localization, it addresses non-textual and cultural factors, making it a far more thorough procedure. It includes several strategies to increase the relatability of your content to people around the world.
- Cultural Differences
Translation works well for technical disciplines where accuracy in literal meaning is crucial. It works for the legal, research, scientific, financial and medical industries. It is best suited when something needs to be standardized.
Talking about cultural adaptation, localization takes into account elements that may be related to culture. It also may be linked to icons, manners, images, symbolism, humor and social values.
- Impact
Be it website or content translation, when translated, it reaches a wider audience, making audiences engage with detailed information. When translated into the audience’s native language, it helps businesses connect properly with clients.
Be it website or content localization, when localized, it makes the target audience feel more familiar with the content. Even small adjustments to your speech patterns or the imagery employed in marketing efforts can have a significant impact.
Why Does Translation Matters?
Since the majority of companies and industries function in English, the translation matters for everyone. Everyone recognizes its importance once they realize how important it is to reach a larger audience. Although everyone speaks English, many prefer to communicate in their mother tongue or native language.
To help them clearly express their thoughts and ideas, translation hence becomes essential. Therefore, by meeting the highest level of translation, businesses can bridge the gap between the target market and the target audience while also meeting the increasing demand.
Why Does Localization Matters?
Did you know that the majority of individuals would buy products that are offered in their mother tongue? This is where localization comes in since it increases the appeal of material so that viewers will purchase it. It helps to reach a worldwide audience and creates a relationship with clients on a personal level.
It focuses on the market and emphasizes interacting with customers worldwide. Therefore, by striking a balance between local compliance and international requirements, businesses can gain more potential growth.
Translation VS Localization- What to Choose?
Translation vs. localization– wondering which is the right choice to make? Well, the answer depends on your requirements. Translation is generally all you need if all you want to do is translate your information from one language to another. Localization is the best option if you want to modify your material for a specific market.
If you want to boost sales, you must adjust your marketing to the expectations of the local audience. If your project involves medical records, technical publications, literature or scientific journals, you can opt for translation services. However, if your project involves any form of software, apps, websites or videos, you must opt for the localization services to modify your product.
Let Professionals Choose the Right Service for You
At SK Translation Services, we are the leading provider of translation services. Be it multilingual marketing or personal endeavours, we use words that will help your business thrive globally. Being an ISO-certified company, our team of professionals is certified and holds years of knowledge in the field. We cover more than 100+ languages including German, Korean, Uzbek, Spanish and more.
We aim to help you navigate language barriers and for this, we first understand your objectives and then proceed. Be it understanding your unique goals, meeting deadlines or helping your business grow, you can rely on us for all your needs. To learn more about our services, you can contact us without any hesitation.
