Translation
Are your translators fluent in the target language?
Not only are they fluent, they are always native speakers of the target language. What’s more, most of our translators also live and work in the country of the source language. This means not only can they faithfully translate your words and ideas, but they can also translate the context and localise your text.
Do you use CAT tools or AI?
Of course we do! This is the 21st century after all. We use all the tools at our disposal. Gone are the days when we sit with a pen and paper, translating word by word from one piece of paper to another. Translation memories have transformed our work, making us faster, more accurate, and less likely to miss out any of the text.
Why do we need a translator then?
These tools are no more, and often less, perfect than human translators. In fact, they wouldn’t exist without human translators! And none of them can capture the nuances quite like a skilled linguist.
Our translators have built up their own databases over years. All this helps with a literal translation. But we will always edit the translation of your text to ensure the right words are used in the right places. To capture the tone of voice as well as the context. Translators are excellent writers in their own language, in the target language. They know when something sounds wrong, and they will re-write until it sounds right. Sometimes, a good translation will even turn out better than the original!
What if I send you a text I have translated with DeepL or similar tool?
You can, of course. And we will post-edit your text. But often this can be more time-consuming than if you give us the original text. Our experience means we have subject-based databases of terminology and historical translations to work with.
Editing
AT ALL DIFFERENT LEVELS – PROOFREADING
Send us your text for proofreading in any format (though Word is easiest for Track Changes). One of our native speakers will check it carefully for typos, spelling mistakes, glaring grammatical errors, syntax, and any obvious inconsistencies. You can then accept or reject the changes.
DOESN’T THAT COVER EVERYTHING?
For the most part, yes. We proofread translated texts against source texts. Or texts written in a foreign language, say English, by a non-native speaker of that language. Sometimes a more in-depth revision of the text is needed, with the need for the re-writing of certain sections. This is what we call copy-editing.
Since our copy editor is often an expert in your native language too, they can spot when the author may have written a literal translation of their idea. This helps them understand what you are trying to say. This process takes more time but will transform your words into a fluent text, as if you had written it in your own language.
DO YOU PROOFREAD PHD THESES & ACADEMIC TEXTS?
Most of our clients are in this sector, and in multiple disciplines. Journal editors often demand that academics have their texts checked by a native speaker, which is where we can help. We also offer reasonable rates for PhD students who would like their thesis checked.
EDITING SERVICE FOR SELF-PUBLISHED WORKS
E-Lango offers an editing service for writers who want to self-publish. In close collaboration with the author, our editor will gently accompany the process, suggesting changes where necessary and helping to transition the work to its rightful place in the global online bookshop.
Copywriting
What is copywriting?
It’s often called content writing these days. A client gives us a brief, say for a marketing blog or a speech or a newsletter, and our team of writers will transform that into a suitable piece of writing.
Why wouldn’t we use ChatGPT?
Good question! And one we are asking ourselves in this business. ChatGPT is in its infancy, and it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Furthermore some people just don’t have the time or the inclination to do the necessary research. They just want us to do the writing for them.
All of our writers pride themselves on being well read, and many of them are excellent creative writers in their own right. They can put your voice into a piece of writing, your authority and your creativity, so that it reflects your vision or that of your business.
Some of the work we do …
A client recently contacted us to help him write a label for a customised champagne bottle for his loyal customers. In close collaboration we were able to come up with a text that was full of fizz, fit for a bottle of the finest sparkling wine.
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