How Translation affects our lives
Each year September 30th is celebrated by many people around the globe. It is a day of celebration originally recognized for its patron saint (Saint Jerome), however it has grown beyond any religion or borders. If you are like most people, you have probably never heard of it until now. It is the international Translation Day. People may not realize the connection between translation and their everyday life. The truth is that there is almost nothing in our existence that is not related to translation in some way. Here are some well known facts that will show you its significance.
Translation saves lives – As we speak, a large translation project is analyzing the news feed to detect certain words or phrases. It will help identify global health outbursts, thus protecting our lives. We also have to mention all the translators and interpreters that work in international health facilities or governments. By translating different documents, they are helping different countries understand and exchange ideas for public health.
Translation contributes to the world peace – Every year leading countries in international organizations are scheduling events, intended for strengthening international relations. It is not possible for the international relations to be maintained without mutual understanding. The translators and interpreters in those organizations are far more important than most of us think. Translators are responsible for shaping the exact meaning of the content in the peace contracts, so that it looks trustworthy to all the sides. The communication between world leaders also involves interpreters, who are helping them express their ideas in the clearest way possible. It also gives them a chance to make a strong impression for themselves and the countries they represent.
Translation is essential during election
In many countries translation plays a really important role in politics. An appropriate example for this are the United States. The official language in the country is English, but there are entire states, where Spanish is the main language – Florida, Georgia, The Carolinas and Alabama. It is no coincidence that the president candidates use interpreters to communicate with voters that speak Spanish. This way interpreters are helping people to make their final decision.
Translation creates jobs
The translation market’s estimated value circulates around thirty-three billion dollars in the last years. There are more than twenty-five thousand agencies around the globe that provide translation and interpreting services, who are contributing to a decrease in world unemployment. They also hire people who can effectively translate information related to finance, sales, technology, marketing, project management, engineering and so on, boosting the world economy.
Translation boosts the world economy
Like I mentioned before, world economy will not be able to remain stable without translation. Just choose any Fortune 500 company and check its website. You will either see that it is bilingual, or those companies are likely hiring workers who speak other languages. Without translation, those companies will not be able to meet the expectations of their clients and stockholders.
Translation creates love stories
People can fall in love because of translation. Whether it is because of a translated love poem or a beautiful greeting card, translation can ignite a spark between people. We are all familiar with the fact that love knows no barriers. There is always a chance for two people to engage in sweet talk across languages and cultures – as long as translation exists to bind them together.
Translation maintains our faith
The Bible, Quran and many other sacred books are translated in most modern languages. Thit they makes them accessible and understood by everybody.
Translation entertains us
Nowadays sports are more international than ever. Recruiting an athlete from the other part of the planet is not a problem. Communicating with him/her however requires translation. This is why sport icons hire interpreters to help them communicate when moving between different countries or giving interviews. Other sources of entertainment like movies and books also require translation. The “Harry Potter” books would never be as successful and popular if they have not been translated in different languages.
In conclusion we can all agree that translation is somewhat overlooked. While the truth is it is vital for the global development. Congratulations to all the translators and interpreters out there, who affect our lives in ways we do not even realize, and help people around the world unite their efforts in the name of our better future.