Tips for Writing for Translation

Consider these tips when writing products that will be translated.

• Use plain language and simplified text. Keep vocabulary to appropriate grade level. Typically, this is an 8-10th grade level per the Plain Language Act. Grade levels will vary depending on project funders and audience.
• If possible, use terms that makes sense in other languages. Create agreements across contractors on common terms.
• As projects are launching, identify and define key terms. Collaborate at the beginning of projects, in the outline phase, with the Biliterate Content Leads or tyour bilterate team. If the project is being written in all languages simultaneously, content writers should collaborate about the key terms to ensure consistency.
• Projects typically need to ensure equivalent resources are available for participants, in all languages being developed. Biliterate content specialists support this work but it can go more smoothly if all content developers consider resources available in multiple languages during development. Some resources to consider:
  • HeadStart.gov 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 instructional design team when needed
  • Consider accessibility of resources being used
• Recognize that idioms and colloquial phrases can be challenging as they often rely on cultural context. These types of phrases can be especially challenging to translate 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. When possible, avoid idioms, metaphors, or colloquial phrases. When these are used, be sure to explain what you hope the participant will understand from them.
  • Example that avoid using:
    • Instead of saying “He hit the bullseye,” you could say “He hit the exact center.”
    • Instead of saying “He nailed it,” you could say “He did it right.”
    • 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 begin.”
    • 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.”
• 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 chapter for more information. 

Resources

• 7 tips for Translating to and From English
• Style Guide for Translations into Spanish