The costliest business errors often start with the words “we thought.”
What we call this is the mistake of assumption. Businesses make assumptions about a lot of things. Some assumptions are genuine, but what about the ones made when brands convert their messages into other languages? The reality is harsh. While operating in multilingual markets, businesses still make some outdated assumptions about translation services.
These assumptions, or what we like to call myths, might sound harmless, but they influence some pressing decisions in the long term. These decisions can be related to brand perception, compliance, customer experience, and revenue growth.
Fortunately, in this blog, we aim to debunk some common myths that continue to mislead global businesses.
Why Are Translation Myths So Dangerous?
Before we debunk the translation myths, let us understand why these myths are so dangerous.
Here’s why:
- They create dangerous misconceptions about brand image across different languages.
- They increase legal and compliance risks.
- They damage consumer trust and loyalty.
- They lead to false cost-saving decisions that backfire later.
Now, let’s get to the myths.
Myth 1: Any Person Who Speaks Two Languages Can Become a Translator
This has to be one of the most damaging assumptions about translation services.
There are core differences between speaking two languages and professionally translating them.
These differences are:
- Professional linguistic training
- Subject-matter expertise
- High research skills to maintain terminology consistency
- High-quality control steps and data protection
For example, academic document translation requires complete precision, terminology accuracy, and formatting discipline. A bilingual person may understand both the source and target languages but may not be able to deliver perfect translations.
Myth 2: Machine Translation Can Work Just as Well
Machine translations are fast. They are also easily accessible and improving consistently. But are they 100% reliable?
Machine translations struggle with:
- Content Depth
- Tone and Sensitivity
- Cultural Elements
- Regulations for Legal and Medical
It is best not to rely completely on machine translations, especially for legal translation services. That’s why professionals use MTPE (machine translation post-editing), which combines the speed of a machine translation tool with the accuracy of expert human reviewers.
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Myth 3: Translation and Localization Are the Same
A very common myth that businesses assume is that translation and localization solutions are the same. Translation refers to a transfer of meaning between languages, while localization adapts that meaning to fit better in the target culture.
In localization, we consider:
- Cultural References
- Regional Dialects and Variations
- Visual Elements
- Units, Currencies, Day-Date Format
The need for translation and localization also differs. While translation solutions are preferred for legal and medical content, localization is often used for marketing content. Working with a localization company in India helps businesses target diverse linguistic groups with multilingual marketing content.
Do you want to explore more about localization in India? Check out our related blog to learn what missteps brands take while entering the Indian markets: 5 Localization Hurdles Brands Trip Over in India.
Myth 4: One Translation Can Work Everywhere
Did you know that the Spanish spoken in Spain is a bit different from the Spanish spoken in Mexico? Similarly, English in India differs from English in the U.S.
Yet, many businesses assume that the same translation can be valid in different regions.
This can result in:
- Damaged Credibility of the Brand
- Awkward Phrasing in Taglines
- Reduced Audience Engagement
It is vital to ensure regional adaptation while translating for global markets.
Myth 5: Translation Just Replaces the Words
If translation were just a process of substituting words, then there would be no need for professional translation services.
However, that is not the case. Professional translators focus on:
- Intent
- Emotion
- Tone
- Audience and Expectations
- Industry Regulations
Different translation approaches are required for different domains. For example, the translation process of a marketing copy won’t be similar to that of an academic paper of an institute. Treating them the same leads to distorted messages and miscommunication. However, professional translation services work with native industry experts who can provide translations in the exact way required.
Myth 6: Any Translation Agency Can Handle Any Language or Domain
Languages are complex, and industries are even more sophisticated.
A translation company that specializes in healthcare content won’t be able to provide a notary public translation certificate in India.
Businesses must always look for agencies that offer:
- Native Linguists
- Industry Experts with Deep Experience
- Structured QA Processes
- Efficient Team Management Systems
- Transparency in Prices
A quality translation depends on many factors. Always be sure to find a translation service that fits all these factors.
How Can Businesses Find Suitable Translation Services?
While it may be tempting to chase shortcuts when it comes to translations, global businesses benefit more by relying on expertise and structured processes.
Somya Translators has the required expertise in expert translation services for global industries.
As a leading translation and localization company in India, we support both domestic and international businesses in meeting their language requirements efficiently.
Translation myths persist mainly because they sound like a convenient way to get the job done. However, what seems convenient may end up becoming too expensive for global businesses.
With suitable translation services, such as Somya Translators, businesses can ensure that their content connects, converts, and builds lasting relationships while entering different markets.
Is your business ready to succeed globally? Then our language translation services can be of strategic help!
Contact us today to get a free quote!
Call: +91-9990094796
Email: info@somyatrans.com