Too often, an inexperienced (or incapable) translator will focus on the correct translation for each word in a sentence or phrase, and the result, due to the mysteries of language and human expression, is a translation that fails to accurately communicate the true meaning of the source material, or that communicates the meaning in stilted, unnatural language. Even for experienced translators, a moment’s lapse of concentration could lead to a literal, less-than-optimal translation. Whether it’s translation from English to Spanish, Spanish to English, or any other language combination, it takes more than just translating word for word. Take a look at some concrete examples of translation from Spanish to English:
| Source Language | Possible Literal Translation | Best Translation |
| Después de mucha vacilación, decidieron buscar un nuevo horizonte. | After much vacillation, they decided to look for a new horizon. | After much hesitation, they decided to take a different path. |
| El petróleo es el recurso natural más valioso de la Arabia Saudita. | Petroleum is the most valuable natural resource of Saudi Arabia. | Oil is Saudia Arabia’s most valuable natural resource. |
A good translation agency works with translators who understand the critical difference between a literal translation of every word, and an accurate translation of the ideas or concepts formed by those words. Additionally, that agency should have experienced, capable proofreaders to act as a second bulwark against the very strong pull of a literal translation.
At TransForma, we work with experienced translators in multiple languages who know how to best express an idea or concept in the target language. Furthermore, our editors and proofreaders work to ensure that the product we deliver sounds natural in the target language. If you have a crucial document that needs accurate, effective translation, you can count on us. Visit us at www.transformaonline.com. If you have a translation project you’d like us to quote, email us at request@transformaonline.com, or call us at 305-722-3827.