Frequently asked questions

This is where you can find answers to frequently asked questions. We are happy to answer any further questions personally. You can find our contact details here.

• Is LanguageKitchen a translation agency?
• Why is there no price list online?
• Does LanguageKitchen use machine translation?
• How long will it take to translate my text?
• What's a certified translation and what do I need it for?
• Why are some translators cheaper than others?

Is LanguageKitchen a translation agency?

 

No, LanguageKitchen is not a classic translation agency, although we offer similar services. So, what’s the difference?

Translation agencies do not actually translate – instead, project managers administer jobs and outsource them to freelance translators. Basically, a translation agency is an intermediary. At LanguageKitchen, however, we are a team of translators, actually translating ourselves.

As the professions of translator or interpreter aren’t protected, anyone can call themselves a translator. This makes it very hard for clients to know which translators are actually qualified. That’s why we also take care of projects outside of our own languages. We work with a great network of professional colleagues whose work we know to be of a high quality. We remain your contact person throughout.

Additionally, our translations are always revised by a native speaker. In classic translation agencies, translations are most often checked by project managers who might not even know the language (at least not at a native level).

 

Why is there no price list online?

 

Translating is so much more than just replacing one word with the same word in another language. Depending on the technicality, purpose, etc., the work a translation involves can vary a good deal. Also urgent delivery or delivery over the weekend have an effect on the price. Basically, every project is unique!

A price list cannot take all this into account. It would be a reference point at best. But in our opinion a concrete offer for a concrete project makes far more sense. We are more than happy to provide you with an offer, without any obligation on your side.

Contact us now for your offer.

 

Does LanguageKitchen use machine translation?

No. Even though such tools may come in handy in some situations, the result can’t be compared to that of a human translator.

If you just want to know what a text is more or less about, machine translation can be the right solution for you. Bear in mind though, that such tools don’t deliver publication-ready results. Mostly, they translate quite literally. A human translator, on the other hand, doesn’t just translate word by word but also takes into account other factors, like

• Clarity: Can the text be understood? Are there any ambiguities?
• Readability & attractivity: Will the target audience want to read the text?
• Accuracy: Is the terminology correct? Is all the content there?
• Localisation: Does the text include references that are not widely known or won’t be understood in the target culture?
• Confidentiality: Online translation tools not only add your text to their database but even assume copyright of it!

Professional human translation leads to the best result for you. But, of course, we use modern technology to make sure we deliver the best-possible quality. CAT tools (computer aided translation software) help us to maintain consistency and accuracy in our translations.

 

How long will it take to translate my text?

The delivery time depends on various criteria, like technicality and purpose of the translation as well as our workload. Usually, we can deliver within a very reasonable timeframe. When suitable surcharges are paid, we can mostly even take care of weekend or urgent projects.

Please let us know of any specific deadlines for the translation when enquiring for an offer.

Certified translations usually take a little longer as they need to be sent by post.

 

What’s a certified translation and what do I need it for?

Only certified translators and court interpreters may issue certified translations. They have taken a specific examination, must continue their professional development, and prove that they still fulfil all requirements.

Usually, public authorities need certified translations.

 

Why are some translators cheaper than others?

There can be various reasons for that. Some translators are not aware of their own market value because they don’t have much experience (or none at all), or are not a member of a professional association. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they are bad translators, however, they need to compensate for their low prices with high productivity – either by translating really fast or working longer hours. This has an impact on the overall quality of a translated text. It can also mean that they don’t have any budget for CPD, modern software, or colleagues to revise their translations. Some translators charge very low rates because they don’t have professional training as a translator, or they just translate alongside their day job.

Cheap translators aren’t necessarily worse than expensive ones, but it can be said that cheap translations usually are of poorer quality. The bottom line is that, in the end, buying cheap might turn out even more expensive than simply paying for a quality translation in the first place.

It is important to us to pay everyone working on our translations adequately because we thus ensure that the translator can take sufficient time to deliver high-quality work.