π₯ Direct to Recruiter Β· No MiddlemenPosted 1h ago
Tara Altena
Translator English-Dutch | Marketing, Transcreation, Lokalisation of board games
English-Dutch Marketing Translator
π RemoteπΌ Freelance Project
π₯ UrgentMidMarketingLocalizationTranscreation
Original Post
Sometimes, a word, or an expression, simply doesnβt translate from one language into the other. π
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In marketing and localization, we aren't just swapping nouns and verbs; we are capturing a specific vibe. If you donβt adjust the words, the message falls flat.
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I recently had to think about this English idiom: "X walked, so Y could run." πββοΈ Itβs punchy, memorable, and instantly communicates progress and legacy. But a literal Dutch translation ("X liep, zodat Y kon rennen") sounds like a report from a track meet. The metaphorical "punch" is completely lost. π
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So what does this phrase actually do?π€
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It contrasts past and present. Itβs bold. It has attitude. In Dutch, we value punchy directness, so I pivoted to: "X? Nee, Y!" π₯This works because itβs snappy, assertive, and trades American sentimentality for Dutch "nuchterheid" (no-nonsense wit).
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Proof that to truly connect with your audience, you sometimes have to let go of the original wording entirely. When your brand's message relies on nuance, a literal translation can do more harm than good.
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Need a Dutch translator, or do you know someone who might? Then hit me up or share this post! π
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#LITranslators #MarketingTranslator #Transcreation #BoardGameTranslator #Localization #DutchTranslator
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[This post was written in English, if youβre seeing another language, it may have been auto-translated.]
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