Starting with the Source of Language Barriers
The importance of good writing cannot be emphasized enough, especially when creating a text that will eventually be translated into one or more languages. Provided that the translation services are performed by an expert, the quality of the translation product will largely depend on the clarity of the original text. This is even more critical when it comes to life science documents. Whether the subject matter relates to a bio-manufacturing SOP, a clinical research regulatory document, or a scientific research article, accurate translation is highly dependent on the quality of the source document. So what should a writer be most concerned with, especially about language barriers?
Internationalization | Language Barriers
For the sake of explanation, let’s take as an example a source document written in English. Let’s assume that the writer is a native English speaker, but must prepare a document that will be translated into multiple languages, such as Spanish, Russian, Mandarin Chinese, and Hindi. How does one go about “internationalizing” such a text? One main consideration is whether the original text reads clearly and easily. Although in English something may make perfect sense to the reader, once translated there may be more than one possible meaning, only one of which is correct.
Writing Sample
Original text: “Smoker expression levels of p53 were compared with non-smokers.”
Corrected text: “Expression levels of p53 in smokers were compared with levels in non-smokers.”
10 Writing Tips
- Be concise: Be as brief as possible without omitting essential details.
- Use clear language: Simple language is best, even if you are describing something that is very sophisticated.
- Avoid double meanings: Avoid using phrases or wording that have more than one possible meaning.
- Use well established terminology: Translators use Translation Memory databases in order to keep with standardized equivalents. Using established terms consistently further ensures correct translation.
- Avoid colloquialisms: Use expressions that can be understood by everyone. Of course, ultimately it is the job of the translator to find the closest language equivalent.
- Avoid narrow columns: Keep in mind language differences may create formatting difficulties, particularly in the case of different written scripts.
- Allow room to expand: The amount of space required is entirely dependent on the language. For example a Russian translation is significantly longer than its English equivalent.
- Use correct abbreviations: Units of measure, titles, names, etc., must be correctly abbreviated. Be aware that in some languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, abbreviations are not common.
- Use one idea per sentence: Sentences which represent a number of ideas can often be misinterpreted even when they are not translated. Keep in mind this only complicates translation and increases potential for misunderstandings.
- Be specific: Use specific language in order to ensure that the translated version will be accurate. When the source is vague there is more chance for translation error.
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