The difference in languages – Arabic Language, Middle East and Africa.

07 Oct The difference in languages – Arabic Language, Middle East and Africa.

The difference in languages

There are few languages in the world that are as different from English as Arabic. The term “Arabic” covers many dialects spoken in the Middle East and Africa. These differences between the two languages, as well as the cultures of the Arab world and the English-speaking world are what makes English to Arabic translation such a challenge. The murky politics that are unfortunately failing to bridge the two cultures are another challenge. For these reasons, a professional translator is a must when you need English to Arabic translation.

Why professionalism matters

It is very important to note that a high quality English to Arabic translation service is never cheap. If a translator offers their services far below the market rate, chances are that they are either just starting out or rely entirely on translation technology. As a result of hiring such a translator for important business projects, for example, you could lose a lot more than you’ve saved on costs. Not only could it be a blow to your reputation on the Arabic-speaking market, but it could even turn into a lawsuit. In addition, you could easily cause offence by hiring someone who isn’t familiar with Arabic culture. To avoid such consequences, you should hire a professional translation services provider.

What professionals can offer

It is standard practice for translation agencies to hire translators that specialize in various fields – and “to specialize” in this case means “to have a background” in those fields. When it comes to English to Arabic translation, specialization takes on a whole new meaning. Not only should an Arabic translator have a background in a certain industry, but they should also understand the differences between various Arabic dialects and be especially fluent in at least a couple of them. Fluency in a complex language such as Arabic means that the speaker is not only familiar with the grammar of their dialects, but also follows the changes in the language such as those approved by the Academy of the Arabic Language and knows and respects the culture of the countries where that dialect is spoken, preferably through immersion or by being a native speaker. Both fluency and industry experience are key elements in deliver English to Arabic translation service of the highest quality.

Literary translation

Translation of English fiction into Arabic is a challenging venture, and a professional literary translator knows both what is involved during the process, and the importance of the result. Any literary translation requires the translator to become a sort of co-author to the writer of the source text and to adapt certain expressions so that the reader of the translated text has no trouble understanding it. When it comes to Arabic, an English to Arabic translator also arguably serves as an ambassador, bridging the gaps between cultures that politics fail to do. Introduction to the literary works can help understand the complexities of other cultures and to establish an intercultural dialogue. Only a professional translator can take on such a rewarding challenge.