Professional Japanese Translation – Natives Only Please!

Whether you’re a client seeking translations or a provider of translation services, it's essential to go native.

Let's explore why this is so crucial.

The Importance of Native Japanese Translators

Professional translation requires translating into one's native language, exclusively.

This can't be emphasized enough! When translations are done by non-native speakers, the results often suffer from style deficiencies, increased spelling and grammatical errors, and, worst of all, they have that unmistakable “translated” feel.

Kiss of death in the world of translation -- The final product has that “this has been translated” hue.

Professional translators understand that they should never translate from their native language into a learned language. For instance, I am bilingual, having graduated from a Japanese university with a degree in economics, and I’ve lived and worked in Japan for decades. However, I only do Japanese-to-English translations, never the other way around. I translate exclusively into my native language, English.

The Limits of Non-Native Translation

Does this mean I can’t translate the other way round i.e. English-to-Japanese translation? Not at all! In fact, I often need to correct my native Japanese translators because they sometimes miss the mark. However, despite decades of managing a translation company, I have yet to meet a non-native speaking translator who can consistently produce work at the same level as native translators, myself included.

Indeed, if we think about it carefully, it is simply impossible to learn a language and all its underlying cultural nuances in a few years, if at all.

Proofreading Is Not a Solution

Some might suggest that a translation into a learned language can be proofed by a native speaker. However, this means two people are doing one job. It's more efficient and cost-effective to have the translation done by a native speaker from the start. Clients save money, and translators save time. It's a win-win situation.

Japanese Clients Demand Professionalism

If you think you can get by with non-native translation, think again!

Your customers in Japan will absolutely not tolerate this kind of unprofessionalism. For professional Japanese translation, trust native speakers to ensure accuracy, quality, and authenticity.

For your Japanese and English translations, make sure you choose a native translator. It makes all the difference in delivering a professional and polished final product.