Your friend introduced you to Rammstein, a German band. He made you listen to a few of their songs from their latest album, Zeit, and you loved each one. While the music is extraordinary, you do not understand what they say because it’s German. So, how do you connect with their music without understanding their lyrics? The solution is ‘translation.’
You go back home, copy-paste the German lyrics, and ask for their meaning in English to understand the theme of their songs. This is a common scenario worldwide. None of us are new to translations; we use them occasionally. But the term is not restricted to simple conversions from one language to another; it goes way beyond that.
Today, businesses need to translate their offerings to reach a wider audience. There are many different types of translations, and they are not restricted to simple word-for-word translations. Let this blog guide you through the common types of translation and how each of them is equally important.
Let’s dive right in!
What Are the Different Types of Translation?

When we hear the term ‘translation,’ the first thing that comes to mind is a simple conversion from one language to another. But that’s not all that translation means. With globalisation growing exponentially, businesses are also looking forward to translating their offerings to expand their reach.Â
Now, would a simple word-for-word translation get the job done? Not really. On that note, let’s explore the different types of translation:Â
A. Literary Translations
Literary translations refer to translations of creative works such as novels, plays, and poems. Recent research shows that translated fiction sales have increased by 22% in the last few years. That sheds light on the importance of literary translations.
While it is clear how this type is essential, the process is not as easy as it seems. The translator must understand the meaning the author wants to convey and translate the piece accordingly.Â
The Adventures of Pinnochio and Don Quixote are well-known examples of literary transitions. Both books were translated into English, keeping the meaning and theme of the novels intact.Â
B. Literal Translations
This is the most commonly used type of translation. In this case, you can get translation from one language to another directly, irrespective of grammar or other language parameters.Â
For example, the Spanish phrase ‘Te estoy tomando el pelo’ means ‘I’m just pulling your leg’ in English. But it is literally translated to ‘I’m taking your hair,’ which makes no sense.Â
This translation type is widely used across the globe. However, this is not the right way to learn a language. It is highly recommended that you talk to an expert to ensure perfect and high-quality translations.Â
C. Free Translations
In this case, translations are done based on the meaning conveyed by a sentence or a phrase. Translators are allowed to change the order of the sentence to ensure the meaning is conveyed perfectly.Â
Here’s an example:Â
Sentence: Ponte las pilas
Literal translation: Put your batteries on
Free translation: Work hard
Translators must properly understand the primary and target languages to translate the meaning of a phrase or sentence. Here, they are free to make changes to convey the meaning perfectly.Â
D. Technical Translations
Have you ever checked the user manual for your TV, laptop, washing machine, or microwave? If so, you are not new to technical translations. Technical translations entail converting highly specialised text, such as technology manuals and scientific reports.Â
Translators must be familiar with the various aspects of the specialised subjects to ensure accuracy of the translated document. Businesses that require this kind of translation must hire a qualified naati certified translator to get accurate results.Â
E. Legal Translations
Every legal document carries a crucial message. It can be a contract between two parties, a handover of properties, or numerous other cases. In such cases, even a single error in translating a particular legal terminology can be a significant problem.Â
There are several instances where two parties in agreement come from different parts of the world and have to translate the legal documents to understand the terms and conditions. Legal translations are one of the major types of translations and require a professional and qualified expert.Â
F. Medical Translations
Medical translations also happen to be a crucial type of translation. Like technical and legal, medical translators also need to have sound knowledge. Documents such as health insurance, medical equipment manuals, etc., need translations to convey the right message to the target audience.
You can check translated manuals when you buy medical equipment. Medical companies are not restricted to one country or region, so they need professional translators to ensure everyone understands each medical terminology.Â
G. Financial Translation
Translations aim to help people understand what is written in documents, establish trust, and comply with a country’s legal guidelines. Financial transitions are significant for banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions.
Translations of these financial documents also require experts who are well-versed in financial jargon and can use it correctly. They must also understand and know the country’s rules and regulations.Â
H. Administrative Translation
Businesses mainly require administrative translations. Translating financial documents, such as annual reports, legal documents, manuals, etc., is important for businesses. Businesses need administrative translations to maintain their global presence and connect with a larger audience.Â
Translators who are well-versed in the source text and understand the various terminologies are the best fit for these translations. It is crucial to avail of professional translation services to get the best assistance and perfect translations.Â
I. Certified Translations
Certified translations are crucial for people immigrating to a different country. They are asked to provide standard documents such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, etc., translated and stamped by certified translators.Â
For example, Australia asks for NAATI-certified translations from everyone immigrating to the country. In such cases, you must find and hire a NAATI translator to get your translations done correctly.Â
J. Website Translations
The world has moved online. Today, most businesses offer their products and services online. They want to be where their customers are. Website translations have become important for every business, enabling it to reach more people and connect with each one.Â
Translating websites helps businesses align with the cultural nuances of target markets. In this case, it is crucial to hire a professional translator to ensure perfect translations.Â
The ones above are the most common types of translations. However, there are a few that deserve a special mention in this blog:
- Machine translation
- Audiovisual translation
- Patent translation
- NGOs and IGOs translation
- Marketing and advertising translation
Endnote
The world of translation is vast. It is not restricted to understanding the source language and the target language. In fact, a translator must have the necessary qualifications to handle various types of translation. As globalisation is the talk of the town, both individuals and businesses are stepping outside their comfort zones for better opportunities. Therefore, the need for translations is also increasing every day.Â
Determine the type of translation you need to bring your business to a new market or to immigrate and get better job opportunities in a foreign country and hire a translator accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eight methods of translation?
- Word-for-word
- Literal
- Faithful
- Semantic
- Communicative
- Idiomatic
- Free
- Adaptation
What is the main purpose of translation?
What is transcreation?
What are the characteristics of good translations?
- Accuracy
- Fluency
- Abides by cultural and linguistic nuances
- Faithfulness to the source text