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Specialized translation is a type of translation that requires knowledge of a given subject matter for the translator to be able to operate. Common specialized translation services include those found in legal, technical, financial, medical, and scientific sectors, along with other highly specialized areas. Specialized translation requires a more in-depth knowledge and expertise in a respective field in order to accurately convey meaning.

Factors That Set Specialized Translation Services Apart

The main difference between specialized translation and general translation is the subject matter expertise and each industry’s need for precision in their field. General translation includes everyday texts such as information brochures, historical documents, advertisements, journalistic texts and other content, but specialized translation focuses more on highly field-specific content.

Some other key aspects of specialized translation that differentiates itself from other translation services include:

• Accurate terminology – Specialized translators have to understand terminology in both the source language and the target language to ensure there is accuracy in their translation.
• Thorough research – Many times translators will need to consult with experts or use tools such as dictionaries, glossaries and other resources to aid the accuracy of translation.
• Quality assurance – To ensure consistency, specialized translators often collaborate with proofreaders and other subject matter experts to evaluate the translation.
• Localization consideration – A part of specialized translation is adapting to the target audience and locale. The translator must consider the cultural nuances, industry standards for a target market, and legal requirements.

Types of Specialized Translation Services

Some common examples of specialized translation include:

• Technical translation – This specialization involves translation of technical documents most commonly seen in scientific or technological fields. Some documents that may need to be translated include technical articles, patents, installation manuals, white papers, product requirements, and troubleshooting guides.
• Legal translation – Legal translation is often focused on translation for non-native speakers who need essential legal documents translated. It is also used for legal documents businesses need in various languages to ensure legal compliance.
• Medical translation – Patients who lack English proficiency, or any non-native speakers, require translators to help facilitate communication between patients and doctors. Medical translation can include translating medical reports, patient information, pharmacological instructions, medical brochures, instructions for hospital equipment and much more.
• Financial translation – Financial translation includes translating financial reports, statements, and banking materials. Financial translators are required to know account principles, financial regulations, and financial terminology.
• Scientific translation – This specialization involves translating documents and other materials that incorporate extremely complex terminology. These documents typically use abbreviations and specialized concepts that require extreme knowledgeable of the field to be able to translate effectively. Some scientific fields include pharmacology, physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, zoology and more.
• Localization – Localization is a little different than regular translation in that it truly foregrounds the culture of the new audience. Some aspects of this include cultural identities and preferences of end users, presentation of dates, currency, measurements, region-specific spellings, and cultural differences in traditions, symbols, and taboos.

These are just a few examples of the many ways specialized translation, highlighting the need for reliable and experienced translators in many fields.

Earn Your Translation Degree from Kent State

Interested in a career in specialized translation? 5XÉçÇø’s online M.A. in Translation will help set you up for a successful career. and reach out with any questions! Check out our admissions page for program specifics.