The Difference Between Translation and Localization

When you’re considering offering your website in different languages, and are evaluating between various localization services providers to do the work, you might still have burning questions about the process. One such question you may be asking yourself is: what is the difference between translation and localization?

The fact that these two terms are used interchangeably in the industry can indeed confuse you. Yet the two terms have separate meanings and applications that are important to know. Let’s delve into a detailed explanation of the differences between the two terms:

Translation

Translation in the simplest terms is the process of translating words or text from one language into another. It’s communicating the meaning of a source-language text by means of an equivalent target-language text.

Translation is the word-for-word conversion of text from a source language to a target language, taking into account both proper grammar and syntax of the target language. The best translation services are undertaken by translators who are expert connoisseurs of both source and target languages.

Typically, the translator will not consider offering an equivalent of cultural nuances or idioms in the translated text. This is the key difference between translation and localization.

Localization

The exact definition of localization is “to make local.” While localization does involve translation, it goes beyond the mere translation of one language to another to include an adaptation of style and nuances.

The goal of localization is to have the end text read as if it were created for the target audience specifically. That is, having the message resonate with local users stylistically. Localized content would not be a literal translation but a piece of content that is designed to greatly appeal to the end user.

Localized text takes into account expectations of the target market, stylistic flourishes and technical standards. So elements such as metaphors, idioms, specific cultural references, colors, grammar, measurement systems and currency are adapted for the sake of having the target audience fully understand these.

Localization is also about using words that are typically used by native speakers, even if these are not the direct translation of the source language. In localization, there is flexibility rather than a word-for-word equivalency between the two languages as you would find in a translation.

For instance, the English words “yes” and “no” do not actually exist in Chinese. Instead, locals in China may use “shi” (“to be”) or “dui” (“true”) – whether “shi” or “dui” is used in a localized text would be carefully considered by the translator.

Should You Localize or Translate?

The type and goal of the content in question is what largely determines whether you should localize or simply translate your content.

Translation is best reserved for content that is technical, such as medical, technological or even legal content. Localization, in turn, is generally used for content that targets the layman, such as websites, mobile apps, product descriptions and other marketing materials.

Any content written with the goal of persuading the reader to do something – i.e.: purchase a product or service, sign up to a subscription list, etc. – or that ought to be conveyed in very casual or familiar terms, such as a mobile app or game, is good candidate material for localization.