To take just one example: in different forms of contemporary Spanish, a toilet can be indoro, taza de baño, retrete, wáter or poceta. A simple writing pen could be a bolígrafo, birome, lapicero, puntabola, esfero, pluma and lapiz-tinta. In Spain, a coche is a car, whereas in most countries it means “baby stroller”, and in Guatemala it means “pig”.
These examples highlight the importance of a clear understanding of how an apparently global language can differ across the different countries which use it. It is all too easy to assume that ‘Spanish’, ‘English’, or ‘Portuguese’ are globally homogenous constructs, and that a document tailored to, say, peninsular Spanish speakers will do just as well in Mexico.
In an increasingly globalised and borderless world, communicating your global message to local markets is more important than ever. The quality of your translated content — whether in your webpage, corporate materials or legal contracts — speaks volumes for your own commitment to quality and respect for local cultures.
QuickSilver Translate will help you to tailor your documentation to your target market, ensuring an accurate and appropriate tone is maintained throughout.
