CHINESE TRANSLATION: CHOOSING THE TRANSLATOR THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

Chinese translation is increasingly being demanded by companies. On the internet, she is one of the trio of most used languages with English and Spanish. But there are actually several Chinese languages.

Mandarin Chinese translation: the standard

Mandarin has only been the official language of China since 1956. Even today, every Chinese province has its own dialect, which most often remains the language of the house.

If your text is destined for mainland China, there is no question: you need a standard Mandarin Chinese translation.

But if you're targeting Hong Kong or Taiwan, you have to be vigilant. Cantonese Chinese is very present, and traditional characters are even more so. Unlike the Mandarin of mainland China which is written in simplified characters.

Choosing a professional translator services

When you have clearly defined the Chinese to use, or you have decided to do this together with your translation company,it is time to find a suitable Sinophone translator.

If you opt for a professional translation services, the choice is quite simple. As an official language, it is the only language taught and used in the public sphere in mainland China. Finding a translator in Mandarin should not be difficult.

Things get complicated if your text is very technical. The selection of translators according to his area of expertise, in legal translation for example, must be rigorous, as is the case for all languages.

If the translator of your choice does not reside in China, make sure his or her native language is Mandarin. Not all Chinese speak Mandarin since birth. Some practice it only as a second language, taught by their family settled in France for example, or even speak only the dialect of the province of origin of this family.

With regard to translations into Cantonese or traditional characters, also check that this variant of Chinese is indeed the mother tongue of the professional in question.