Linguistic Services

Translation

This is the task that defines the profession, the conversion of texts from one language to another. For this, the ideal translator will have an excellent command of the source language; enough knowledge of the specifics involved (i.e. culture for marketing work, scientific lingo for technical translations, historical period and other writings by the author in case of some literary translations, etc.); and superb command of the target language, to be able to maintain the voice and tone of the original while making it sound fresh and native.

Good research skills, reference materials and a network of colleagues are also necessary, because even when someone specializes it is impossible to know every single meaning for every single word or expression. To give you an idea, here are a few examples, chances are you won't know what is being said although they are written in English (it took me about 15 minutes to gather all three):

  • If you want to decrease the aperture for more depth of field, you need to close the aperture thereby letting in less light. To compensate, you must increase the power output on the speedlight. I usually close the aperture to around f6.7 or f8 and up the FEC by +2 or +3 stops. This works quite nicely. (source: http://www.all-things-photography.com/using-flash.html).

  • One sailmaker’s mark, which may include the name or mark of the sailcloth manufacturer and the pattern or model of the sail, may be displayed on both sides of the sail and shall fit within a 150mm x 150mm square. No part of such mark shall be placed farther from the tack point than 20% of the foot length of the sail, including the mast sleeve. (source: http://www.sailing.org/documents/isaf-regulations.php).

  • Traditional thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in high-risk patients. Avoidance of thoracotomy and aortic crossclamping by means of the visceral hybrid surgical and endovascular approach is feasible in these patients. (source: http://www.aats.org/Association/Thoracic_Surgery_News.html).

Editing

It is a thorough revision of the translation, it consists of a comparison between the original text and its translation and it involves not only correcting any possible mistakes but improving text flow and coherence.

This is sometimes an imperative, for example when a group of translators work on the same text, or when there is no margin for error. It is highly recommended that the editor not be the same person than the translator.

Proofreading

This language service is confined to the target text; it aims mainly at correcting typos, syntax errors and improving its style. The brain works on a different mode when working with monolingual rather than bilingual texts, in this stage there are no "distractions" related to comparing meanings, just total focus on the text flow and its correctness.

In this site you'll find some samples of my work. And if you are in a hurry you may contact me right away. Please go ahead, I'm here to provide you with solid advice to make the most out of your time and investment.