September - 2016

Names from around the world

Names from around the world

With the world getting ever smaller, the effective use of global communications that transcend different regions, cultures and languages is becoming more and more important. For those entering a new market, particular attention should be paid to names and how these are treated in different places, especially when it comes to conducting surveys or laying out forms. This article looks at some name variations from around the world and tips on getting around these in your communi

Understanding the art of interpreting

Understanding the art of interpreting

We hear a lot about interpreting and it’s often even confused with written language translation. Interpreting itself involves the spoken language, which can be delivered in a number of ways. Following are the most common… Consecutive Interpreting The most common mode of interpreting, This method works really well for small groups or one-on-one conversations, as it facilitates dynamic, direct communication in dialogue form. This service involves the interpreter sitting

Chief Editor Patrick King discusses LocWorld 31

Chief Editor Patrick King discusses LocWorld 31

In early June, along with 650 other participants I attended the 31st Localisation Conference, known as LocWorld, at the Convention Centre in Ireland’s capital, Dublin. The theme was “Engaging Global Customers” and, as is usual in the LocWorld meetings, the focus was on such topics as computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, machine translation, client-vendor relations, and quality management. With the Brexit debate in full swing and an ever-changing business climate, keynot

Pity the poor interpreter

Pity the poor interpreter

According to a recent report in Spanish, sourced from Univisión on 6 August this year, there was a slight hiccup in the interpreting service provided to Venezuelan television viewers watching the live broadcast of the Olympics opening ceremony. When IOC Chairman Thomas Bach lamented the fact “selfishness is gaining ground”, the unfortunate interpreter told viewers that “los selfies están por todos lados”, i.e. “everywhere you look, people are taking selfies”. While at a deep

What is “on fleek” in Chinese?

What is “on fleek” in Chinese?

With the rise of the internet and the hyper speed at which communications are sent, received and processed, new and interesting issues have arisen for linguists and translators. This was highlighted two years ago when a young woman called Peaches Monroee posted a video of her eyebrows on the social media network Vine. In the video she described her eyebrows as on fleek, a previously unheard-of description meaning looking really good. Vine users were so intrigued by this unusu

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