7 Common Types of Translation Based on the Content

Translation services can be divided into various types, depending on the parameters you consider. For instance, we can categorize them based on the provider, the method of translation, and the content. The idea here is to go over some types that come under what kind of content needs to be translated. You’ll come across these terms in the industry if you ever need content translation for your business.

1)  General Translation

It’s the type of translation that caters to non-specialized content. Having said that, it requires no specific expertise or knowledge on behalf of the translator. Keep this in mind while you’re buying this service from any translation agency. You don’t need to overpay them as they won’t be dealing with any complex language. In fact, the language in general translation tasks is generally the one we use in our daily communication.

2)  Certified Translation

Many people are unaware of the precise meaning of the term “certified translation”. If you have ever applied to a foreign university, then may know about it. You should have provided the university with a certified translation.

As matter of fact, any professional translation agency or translator can actually certify a document that has been translated. In most cases, all they have to do is include a signed declaration at the bottom of the text. Which testifies the translation’s accuracy and completeness to the best of their knowledge.

Do you know what that statement includes? It includes such things as title text, total pages, reference, target language, signatures of the translator, and the company’s stamp. In order to consider it as a certified translation, some countries would often demand its notarization.

3)  Medical Translation

It refers to the translation of content in the healthcare industry. Most often professional medical translation services deal with it because of its sensitivity. Any small errors or inaccuracies can result in business repercussions or worse, human lives.

The medical or professional healthcare translation services you choose should have extensive knowledge of the medical field. They should be aware of all the different terminologies as well as the latest advancements. Otherwise, they would be unable to deliver accurate results.

The most common types of documents that medical translators usually translate are the following. Health records, publications, prescriptions, clinical trials, medicine packaging, and so on.

4)  Cosmetics Translation

As the name suggests, this covers translation of the beauty and cosmetic products. Businesses that want to succeed worldwide should consider professional cosmetics translation services. If their beauty products are not translated properly, how will they survive in the international market?

Since you will require translations for beauty products, make-up, hair and body care, accessories, fragrances, and spa items. The translators you bring in must be experts in the specific codes, terminologies, and customs of this industry. That’s where beauty & cosmetics translation services like Mars Translation can help you get the point across professionally.

5)  Chemical Translation

This involves the translation of all forms of technical and non-technical documentation related to the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, material science, and agrochemical industry. This is one of those types that require specialized translators. A generalist would be unable to provide you with accurate chemical translation services. Because they are likely to be unaware of chemical terms and phrases like compound names, international identifier codes, and so on. Also, they may not be the best persons to deal with tech documents in the chemical field. There could be manuals related to chemical manufacturing, storage, or hazard assessments. Thus, only expert professionals with in-depth knowledge can properly carry them over to the other language.

6)  Legal Translation

Legal translation includes the translation of legal texts and documents. Translators around the world find it quite tricky and complex. Many of them possess an additional degree or two in the legal sphere. Otherwise, they may not be able to know the legal terminologies. Plus, legal systems are also different in different countries.

Due to the complexity of this transaction type, some companies would often divide it into three sub-categories:

• A translation that includes legal documents such as summons, warrants, court transcripts, and the like.
• A translation that refers to the judicial documents such as depositions, judgments, and minutes of interrogation settings.
• A translation that covers juridical documents such as labor contracts, different laws, conventions, partnership agreements, and so on.

7)  Literary translation

It’s known as one of the most complex types of translation. The texts that need a translation in this area can include any poetry, prose, comics, etc. Since each author has their unique style, literary translators have to constantly juggle semantics, wordplay, tone, rhythm, and not to mention cultural differences. You may even find two translators competing against each other in their efforts to best translate a specific author. The translation for such literary translation is known as the “translation slam”.

Final Remarks

The key to global business expansion is to understand what type of translation you need for your company. Knowing what you require in terms of the translation will then help you tap the right service provider. Plus, you would be able to best negotiate the terms and conditions for the service you want. Otherwise, you may end up paying more.