Mind Your Language: Why You Should Look Beyond Google for Your Translation Needs

Trying to impress your Chinese clients, but having a hard time figuring out if they’re sealing the deal or just saying “you’ve got Chow-Fun on your chin”? If you think that’s bad, maybe you should try thinking about a Bruce Lee-inspired film with a Mandarin voice over that translates “samurai” into “Sam, your eye”!

It’s exciting to learn a new language, and yes – your attempts to communicate with your Chinese client and to create a samurai film really only reiterate your passion for China. But if you don’t have the time to learn over 3,000 characters by heart and articulating them with impeccable coherency, you should really consider an alternative that doesn’t make you sound culturally insensitive.

Of course, you might think Google Translate is an effective tool for your quick English-to-Chinese translation needs. After all, it’s not like you’re moving to China to communicate with the locals – so, why bother?

The truth is, you don’t have to go the extra mile. But you do need to consider the horrendous pitfalls of resorting to a language tool that not only defies the purpose of translation, but also perpetuates cultural barriers by inhibiting communication. Don’t let a computerized dictionary put words in your mouth – say what you really mean to say!

She Said What?

While it may be seemingly innocent and forgivable to make spelling or grammatical errors working on a Chinese-to-English translation, you should bear this in mind: all it takes to separate the word “tasty” from “nasty” is the letter “n”.

With technological innovation allowing us to connect with people across the globe, it’s easy to take for granted the human element that permeates our routine interactions. This is why it’s important to consider an alternative to emotionless technology like Google Translate to express your personal thoughts, feelings and opinions – be they educational, social, professional or intimate.

What’s the Alternative? 

One of the main reasons people choose to use Google Translate (and concurrently butcher some of the most beautiful languages in the world), is its accessibility through a computer or Smartphone with nothing more than a Wi-Fi connection.  

At first glance, this may seem worth a try, but as you now know, the results could be potentially disastrous. Why risk embarrassment in front of a valuable Chinese client or esteemed figure when you could ensure clear and thorough communication with a professional Chinese language translator?

LIMPID Language and Internet Services in China has been delivering high-quality language content for international companies across the world. Check out their impressive list of satisfied clients and contact them today for any and all queries related to a reliable translation service offered by authentic Chinese professionals.