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Translation As A Career And Its Scope

10-04-2019 17:38:25       14855

Translation is an activity that aims at conveying meaning or meanings of a given linguistic discourse from one language to another. Translation can be defined in terms of sameness of meaning across languages.

According to some researchers, there can be no absolute correspondence between languages and hence no fully exact translations. Translation at some level is always possible, however, there are times when interlocutors are aware that they do not mean the same by particular phrases. Meaning is formed on each occasion of linguistic interaction and is therefore unique and not replicable. Therefore, a translation can never 'mean' the same as the source text. But this does not matter, because practice ensures that translators 'get away with' translating well sufficiently often. The word 'translate' comes from the Latin 'translation' where 'trans' means across and 'latus' means carrying; the word thus means the carrying across of meaning from one language to the other. The various Indian language words for translation do not convey this meaning. Anuvad (speak after), bhashantar (linguistic transference), tarjuma (reproduction), roopantar (change of form), vivartanam (change), mozhimattam (change of script)- what P. Lal, one of India's wellknown translators, has described as 'transcreation'. This is a process whereby the translation, rather than a docile transference of meaning from one linguistic system to the other, becomes a retelling by the translator in another language. So this implies that our basic concept of translation was different, and we need to explore if this is because classical Indian critical theories conceptualized it differently.

Translation is the communication of the meaning of a source language text by means of an equivalent target language text. The English language draws a terminological distinction (not all languages do) between translating (a written text) and interpreting (oral or sign-language communication between users of different languages); under this distinction, translation can begin only after the appearance of writing within a language community. A translator always risks inadvertently introducing source-language words grammar, or syntax into the target-language rendering. On the other hand, such "spill-overs" have sometimes imported useful source-language calques and loanwords that have enriched target languages. Translators, including early translators of sacred texts, have helped shape the very languages into which they have translated.

History of translation in India
India is a multi-lingual country and has always been so. There are actually two distinct language families in India-the Indo-Aryan and the Dravidian. The most ancient of the Dravidian languages is Tamil, the others being Kannada, Telugu and Malayalam which evolved later than Tamil. The major Indian languages of today derive from either of the two groups, and sometimes two Indian languages might not have many linguistic traits in common. For instance, translation from Hindi to Malayalam means that translation is between two languages that are radically different although they belong to the same region called India. But despite this diversity, we can safely state that Indian languages own a shared sensibility, partly derived from the common heritage of Sanskrit and from ancient theories of literature and language.

As India passed into the medieval period, the influence of Sanskrit declined. The various invasions during this period also brought with them different cultural and linguistic influences. Persian became the dominant language because it was the language of the court; it was also considered to be the elite language of scholarship under the Mughal rulers. The Mughal courts had scholars who were also translators. Baburnama, the autobiography of Babur was originally written in a language called Chagatay but was translated into Persian by Humayun's minister Bairam Khan. Akbar commissioned translations of Sanskrit works into Persian. The Mahabharata was translated into Persian during Akbar's time. His great-grandson Dara Shukoh translated the Upanishads and the Bhagavadgita into Persian.

Indian Theories of Aesthetics and Translation
The influence of Indian critical theory also impacted other aspects of translation. Equivalence as we understand the concept today, as in achieving the same meaning in the target language as in the source language, thus was not a major concern as far as Indian translators were concerned. But there was a different sort of equivalence that translators hoped to achieve, which was in matters of the emotional impact of the text and other matters of style, like rasa, and dhvani. The need for translation has existed since time immemorial and translating important literary works from one language into others has contributed significantly to the development of world culture. Ideas and forms of one culture have constantly moved and got assimilated into other cultures through the works of translators. The history of translation is related to the history of the often invisible cross cultural interactions of the world. Ideas and concepts from the East notably India, China and Iraq have influenced the Western culture since as early as sixth century B.C. when trade ties were first established between India and the Mediterranean countries. Translators have enabled Holy Scriptures like the Bible written in esoteric languages like Latin to be understood by ordinary people by translating them into more common languages without depending on a few elite priests or the members of clergy to explain what they contained.

Role of Translator in Global Era
21st century has brought changes as well as challenges for the language industry. With people moving abroad and willing to learn different languages, it has opened new doors for translation industry. Translation and interpretation services has become the fastest growing industry in the United States related to job growth. This 21st century has also brought in numerous machine translation apps that does the job. Due to its limitations, companies prefer human translators. This has increased the demand for professional translators even more than before. Globalization has turned out to be the new era for translation industry. This new era has brought opportunities for every industry. Product industry has seen products being manufactured with lower costs and superior quality. Similarly, translators too have developed competitions around the world especially from low cost countries. Now, there is no more language barrier due to the globalization. Thus, it has resulted in more interactions with people around the world. This cross cultural interactions has increased the demand for more translators and interpreters. Globalization has increased interactions among people around the world. This has impacted the vocabulary for certain languages. Words have been borrowed from different languages and have been adopted. This foreignising of a language has made work little easier for translation companies. Due to globalization there is more work as there are no country barriers. People from abroad come over and get translation done by Indian companies. This has given more work for companies in India.

There are different dimensions to globalization in terms of translation industry. English was initially restricted to certain countries. Due to globalization, English has benefited the most along with many other languages. Literature has found a wider audience in languages that have been heard of. Writers and readers have got immense opportunity to explore and share. Translation industry will get to touch areas of literature as well. Due to trade barriers small enterprises are pressurized to become global. This has led to increase in advertisements. Translation industry plays a huge role in making them global. They make the companies appear same in different countries keeping in mind the culture and language differences. These global companies are forced to seek the help of translation companies and is becoming the core business of such companies. As globalization is increasing, need for translation services is also growing. It is expected that globalization is going to affect the translation industry in a more profound manner compared to other industries. Translating industry will be seeing a boom in the recent years. The success of the translation industry is ever growing, and will remain so as it continues to help bridge the communication gaps between clients and business worldwide. Immense opportunities will develop, new clientele base will be set, new languages will be added to the list and much more this industry will experience.

Different Types Of Translation
Translation is a field that is seeing a lot of activity nowadays, thanks to the increasing globalization of businesses. International travel has also increased significantly - for both business and leisure. This means there is, at any given time, a large number of people in a country that don't necessarily speak the local language well. Of course, this augurs well for the translation industry. There are many types of translation that may be required, and each one is unique, with its own process and specific requirements. If you have a business with international operations, it would be beneficial to partner up with an experienced professional, or a translation services company, who is capable of understanding your specific requirements and accommodating them. On your part, it is important that you have a meeting with your service providers to apprise them of your exact needs - the more info you can give them about your business and your target market, the easier it will be for them to provide you with the best service possible. If you can, do try to specify important terms or jargon used in your industry, and a style guide; also provide some training sessions to familiarize them with the products or services you offer.

Translations can be broadly classified into Business related, and Non- Business related. However, some kind of overlap is in both categories. So let us examine the most common types of translations that are performed.

Literary Translation- The name is self-explanatory- literary translation refers to the translation of literary works like stories, novels, poems, and plays. It is often considered the highest form of translation because a literary translation is so much more than the mere conveying of the meaning and context of the document in the source language into the target language. It involves incorporating the appropriate cultural nuances, translating humour, feelings, emotions, and other subtle elements of a particular work. Many litterateurs believe that it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to translate works of literature - especially poetry. Some examples of situations that could be very difficult are - rhyming words, puns, idioms, anagrams, and so on. Often, there are no appropriate translations in the target language, and the nuance is lost.

Commercial Translation- This is one of the most complex translations, and involves birth certificates and marriage certificate translations, translating contracts, agreements, treaties, memorandums, wills, and so on. A good translator needs to understand the various underlying contexts of the documents and that of the two regions or countries for which the documents are intended - the socio-cultural aspects, and the politico-legal aspects as well. They would then need to translate it in a manner that the target audience easily grasps the text. Even if you are familiar with the cultures and other aspects and are highly skilled at translation, you may need to consult legal professionals so as to ensure that your translation is completely error-free.

Technical Translation- Any technical content that needs to be translated - user guides, manuals, online help text, instruction booklets, training materials and videos, marketing materials for technical fields like manufacturing, science or engineering - all of this comes in the ambit of technical translation. Formatting is an important aspect where the translation of technical content is concerned, as desktop publishing or DTP is required for it. Often the screenshots and even graphics have to be edited to make it suitable for the target language/s.

Judicial Translation- This type of translation is different from legal translation; the latter is about translating legal documents - which could be very old too. But when we talk about judicial translation, we basically refer to the activity of translating court documents like depositions, minutes of meetings, expert testimonies, witness testimonies, judgments, letters rogatory, interviews and more - basically, activities related to cases.

Administrative Translation- In the realm of translation, administrative refers to the translation of management texts we often see being used in organizations - whether huge corporations or regional businesses. Though pretty similar to commercial translations, it is not exactly the same. While administrative translation can be called a subset of commercial translation, all commercial translation is not necessarily administrative.

Medical Translation- Any medical content that is patient related, like labels, packaging, instructions, or software, and content that is product related, like research papers, clinical trial paperwork, quality management certificates and the like, usually needs translation. It is absolutely imperative that the translation service providers are experienced, have the requisite knowledge, and are in-country professionals. Translation of medical documents can also be very tricky as the requirements of translation can differ from country to country; a translator or company specialized in medical documents would be your best bet, as they would be familiar with the intricacies of all the different requirements.

Website Translation- We are of course talking about website copy, subtitles for videos on your web pages, and any documents you have there. Here you will also need to change things like currencies, address formats and layouts, so as to appeal to the different local audiences. You need to think about the languages you want your website to be translated into and localize only those pages which will apply to the target audience. Using a website- translation management system to automate and ease the process if you have frequent updates to your website copy.

Knowledge Translation- The National Translation Mission, a brain-child of the National Knowledge Commission intends to translate textbooks and classical works in areas like sociology, history, geography, geology, medicine, chemistry, physics, mathematics, linguistics and political science into the Indian languages in order to raise the standard of education done in mother tongues and to render accessible current and cutting edge knowledge so far available only in English to the rural poor and the backward sections of the society. The Commission is looking for competent translators from English into all the Indian languages and there is evident scarcity in the area.

Media Translation- The print, electronic, visual and auditory medianewspapers, magazines, radio, television, cinema etc- need plenty of translators from one language into another. Many media houses publish papers and journals or run television channels in several languages at the same time and they need quick yet communicative translations of news, serials, film scripts and programmes. Dubbing and subtitling are other areas.

Script Translation- Many popular movies and TV shows that come out of Hollywood are dubbed into several languages and released worldwide; sometimes the films are from foreign languages and dubbed into English and other European languages - like the Telugu language blockbuster from India, Baahubali, which was released in Chinese and German, among other languages. The Harry Potter series was also released into dozens of languages. But for these releases to happen, the scripts have to be translated first- and the dialogues. You can say this is a type of literary translation, but it's not exactly the same. It can be very dicey, as translating punchlines, jokes or catchy phrases into another language to make the same impact is very difficult. With more movies being released in multiple languages nowadays, this type of translation is very much in demand today.

Multimedia Localization- Videos, graphics, animations, GIFs, info-graphics - all this can be grouped under multimedia; and this is very important today, as more and more companies are creating multimedia content to widen their audience reach and keep them engaged. Localizing this content can get quite tricky though it may look simple from the outside - as it has to be appropriate for the local culture, and appeal to the customers in that region. If you don't do it correctly, you could end up offending your audience - and drive them away.

Various types of translation require different ways of handling. As a result, many translators specialize in different fields of translation where they possess the best expertise and experience. It is very rare to find a translator who is able to handle all types of translation and produce high quality work.

Oral Translation- This translation is done by word of mouth. It is often referred as interpretation irrespective of the nature of the environment in which it takes place. It may be professional or nonprofessional.

Written Translation- Here the translation is done in writing. The text is written from the source language into the target language and is presented in document form. The difference between the oral translation and written translation is very clear here as we have defined them respectively. Whereas oral translation is performed by an interpreter, written translation is performed by a translator.

Computer/machine Based Translation- This is a type of translation where translations are performed using programed software. The software analyses the text, detects the language and produces the translated version in the target language. However, the above major types of translations have several subfields or types of translations under them which include the following- This is where the translation of a document is done on word-forword translation basis. Here, sometimes the meaning of the whole document may not be given much attention but just translate each word the way it is from the original language to the target language.

Literal Translation- This majorly works on the grammatical constructions of statements to maintain their meaning in the translated document. It clearly indicates the problem to be solved in the translation process. It deals with maintaining the essay form of the document, idioms used etc.

Free Translations- These are translations majorly carried out in the natural form of the target language that is the context and the syntax for easy understanding by the natives of the target language but as well preserves the original meaning of the document.

Idiomatic Translation- This is more like the free translations where the document is translated maintaining the original meaning but adding in the natural phrases and idioms of the target language for easy understanding.

Interpretive Translations- These are translations that provide further interpretations, descriptions and meaning of the original or source text but not just simply the translation of words in the text or document.

Faithful Translation- These are translations that tend to remain faithful to the original text or document by trying hard to reproduce the contextual presentation and the cultural words used in the document when translating the document. Therefore, for any translator or translation agency to perfect their translation services, they have to first fully understand the different types of translation and how to undertake them for better use of both the original and the translated document. Understanding these types of translation plays a significant role while undertaking any translation job. Translators need to determine which kind of translation fits which situation and environment rather than simply word conversions from one language to another.

When you need a translation services, it is therefore advised to consult a translation agency Follow us providing professional translation services. This is because translation companies have a much better understanding of these translation types and they can guide appropriately. This is to ensure perfect translation of a given text or word to match the audience, environment or situation. Translators always command different skills and expertise in their respective fields of translation. The best source to avail a translator with skills relative to your requirement is through translation agencies. They always work hard to produce perfect translations for their clients.

Interpreter or Translation Courses In India Education for Interpreters and Translators- A bachelor's degree is typically needed to become an interpreter or translator along with proficiency in at least two languages, one of which is usually English. High school students interested in becoming an interpreter or translator should take a broad range of courses that focus on foreign languages and English writing and comprehension. Beyond high school, people interested in becoming interpreters or translators have numerous educational options. Those in college typically choose a specific language as their major, such as Spanish or French. Although many jobs require a bachelor's degree, majoring in a language is not always necessary. Through community organizations, students interested in sign language interpreting may take introductory classes in American Sign Language (ASL) and seek out volunteer opportunities to work with people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Interpreter and Translator Training- Interpreters and translators generally do not need any formal training, as they are expected to be able to interpret and translate before they are hired. However, those working in the community as court or medical interpreters or translators are more likely to complete job-specific training programs or certificates. Continuing education is a requirement for most state court and medical interpreting certification programs. It is offered by professional interpreter and translator associations such as the American Translators Association and the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters on a regular basis.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Interpreters and Translators- There is currently no universal certification required of interpreters and translators beyond passing the required court interpreting exams offered by most states. However, workers can take a variety of tests that show proficiency. For example, the American Translators Association provides certification in 29 language combinations. The federal courts offer court interpreter certification for Spanish language interpreters. At the state level, the courts offer certification in at least 20 languages. The National Association of the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf jointly offer certification for general sign language interpreters. In addition, the registry offers specialty tests in legal interpreting, speech reading, and deaf-to-deaf interpreting-which includes interpreting among deaf speakers of different native languages and from ASL to tactile signing.

Other Experience for Interpreters and Translators- Other helpful experience for pursuing this career include spending time in a foreign country, interacting directly with foreign cultures, and studying a variety of subjects in English and at least one other language. Some students study a specialty such as law, engineering, or medicine in order to provide a higher level of interpreting and translation. A good way for translators to learn firsthand about the occupation is to start working in-house for a translation company. Doing informal or volunteer work is an excellent way for people seeking interpreter or translator jobs to gain experience. Volunteer opportunities for interpreters are available through community organizations, hospitals, and sporting events, such as marathons, that involve international competitors. Paid or unpaid internships are other ways that interpreters and translators can gain experience. Escort interpreting may offer an opportunity for inexperienced candidates to work alongside a more experienced interpreter. Interpreters also may find it easier to begin working in industries with particularly high demand for language services, such as court or medical interpreting.

Whatever path of entry new interpreters and translators pursue, they should develop mentoring relationships with experienced workers in the field to build their skills and confidence and to establish and expand a network of contacts. Mentoring may be formal, such as that received through a professional association, or informal, such as that engaged in with a coworker or an acquaintance who has experience as an interpreter or translator. Both the American Translators Association and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf offer formal mentoring programs.

Advancement for Interpreters and Translators- After interpreters and translators have enough experience, they can move up to more difficult assignments, seek certification, and obtain editorial responsibility. They can also manage or start their own business. Many self-employed interpreters and translators choose to become selfemployed as a means to advance. They may submit resumes and samples to different translation and interpreting companies who will match their skills with various jobs. Many get work on the basis of their reputation or through referrals from clients or colleagues. Some may also start their own companies, where they hire other translators and interpreters to work for them.

Important Qualities for Interpreters and Translators
  • Business Skills- Selfemployed interpreters and translators need general business skills to manage their finances and careers successfully. They must set prices for their work, bill customers, keep records, and market their services in order to build their client base.
  • Concentration- Interpreters and translators must be able to concentrate while others are speaking or moving around them.
  • Cultural Sensitivity- Interpreters and translators must be sensitive to cultural differences and expectations among the people whom they are helping to communicate. Successful interpreting and translating is a matter not only of knowing the words in different languages but also of understanding people's cultures.
  • Dexterity- Sign language interpreters must be able to make quick and coordinated hand, finger, and arm movements when interpreting.
  • Interpersonal Skills- Interpreters and translators, particularly those who are self-employed, must be able to get along with those who hire or use their services in order to retain clients and attract new business.
  • Listening Skills- Interpreters must listen carefully when interpreting for audiences to ensure that they hear and interpret correctly.
  • Reading Skills- Translators must be able to read in all of the languages in which they are working.
  • Speaking Skills- Interpreters and translators must speak clearly in all of the languages in which they are working.
  • Writing Skills- Translators must be able to write clearly and effectively in all of the languages in which they are working.
Qualification- There are various types of related courses available with universities and other institutions; these are certificate, diploma and degree courses. Qualifications depend on the level of the course. An acquaintance with a foreign language is always advisable for joining this field. This can be obtained through short term training courses moving from basic to advanced levels with the institutions.

Reputed Institutions In India 
  • School of Language, Literature and Cultural Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi (www.jnu.ac.in)
  • Central Institute of English and Foreign Languages, Hyderabad, (www.ciefl.ac.in)
  • University of Delhi (www.du. ac.in)
  • University of Mumbai (www.mu.ac.in)
  • Instituto Hispania-Spanish Language & Cultural Centre (www.institutohispania.com)
  • Embassy of Portugal, Instituto Camoes-Portughese Cultural Centre, New Delhi (www.icccpindia.com)
  • Indo-Japanese Association, Oricon House, 7th Floor, 12 k Dubash Marg, Mumbai
  • JN Academy of Languages, New Delhi (www.bvbdelhi. org)
Post Graduate Diploma in Translation
Post Graduate Diploma in Translation is diploma level course in English translation. This course provides basic skills in Hindi and English both language so that a candidate can translate any script work in Hindi to English or vice versa. Students who have an interest in Hindi and English literature can opt this course. The candidates who have a degree in bachelor's program are eligible for the course. Post Graduate Diploma in Translation is a trending course these days. Post Graduate Diploma in Translation (PGDT) is a postgraduate Diploma Level Linguistic course. The Course aims to communicate Translation from English to Hindi and vice-versa. This course has been prepared to keep in view the need for conversion in our socio-cultural and expert areas. Post Graduate Diploma in Translation Duration: 12 months Post Graduate Diploma in Translation Eligibility: Graduation Post Graduate Diploma in Translation Colleges:
There are various colleges and universities providing the course some of them are as follows:
  • Saga Institute of Management Studies - SIMS, Malappuram
  • Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya - BPSMV, Sonepat
  • Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce, Pune
  • Gujarat University - GU, Ahmedabad

- Dr. Bharat Singh Negi & Prabha Negi

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