Tip and Recommendations to Support Translation

Consider these tips when writing for translation:

• Use terminology that makes sense in other languages. Create agreements across contractors on common terms.
• As projects are launching, define key terms. If a project is being written in English and then translated, content writers should identify key terms and at the beginning collaborate with the Biliterate Content Leads or the designated biliterate content developer on translations of terms. If being written in all three languages simultaneously, all content writers should do this at the same time.
• Typically the content developer or writer needs to consider what materials are available in different languages. Carefully choose materials and resources being shared to ensure they have various languages available. Work with the biliterate content specialist and Instructional Designer to find similar content in different resources.
  • ECKLC has a website and directions
  • Universities (Spain and Mexico) are a big plus.
  • When materials/resources/graphics are only available in one language, if we choose to use them, we need to recreate the information in other languages.
  • We get ideas from other people’s resources
  • Consider original videos in the language you want it shared in – not relying on subtitles
  • Focus on equity and belonging as driving our decisions
  • Work within the expectations of the funder or project to determine what are the best options
  • Work with the design team when needed
  • Consider accessibility of resources being used
• Avoid using common sayings, idioms, colloquialisms, and acronyms that are not equivalent to the target language that is being written in. Translating idioms and colloquial phrases can be challenging as they often rely on cultural context and may not have direct equivalents in Somali or Spanish. To ensure clear communication and avoid potential misunderstandings, it’s best to use straightforward language, especially when writing content for Somali natives.
  • For example:
    • “He hit the bullseye,” you could say “He hit the exact center.”
    • Instead of saying “She’s feeling under the weather,” you could say “She’s not feeling well.”
    • Instead of saying “It’s a piece of cake,” you could say “It’s very easy.”
    • Instead of saying “Let’s hit the road,” you could say “Let’s start our journey.”
    • Instead of saying “Let’s dive in,” you could say “Let’s get started.”
    • Instead of saying “Let’s dig deeper,” you could say “Let’s learn more.”
  • Use simplified text. Keep vocabulary to appropriate grade level. Typically, this is an 8-10th grade level per the Plain Language requirements. Grade levels will vary depending on project funders and audience.
• Gender Forms:
  • In languages such as Spanish and many others, gender permeates not only pronoun forms but adjectives, objects and even nouns. When possible, include a disclaimer to explain why a project has used a specific gender form. It is particularly important to get the gender right when people are speaking, as in video transcriptions and subtitles. Refer to the Video Use Guidelines section in the Choosing and Using Visual Media For Our Products for more information. 

Resources

• 7 tips for Translating to and From English
• Head Start Guidelines and Resources for Translations into Spanish