Getting translations accurate and authentic to the intended meaning of the source text is difficult at the best of times. Because you’re not just translating a series of words that string together, but you’re translating the thoughts and ideas behind the words. As Aristotle said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”

As a Language Service Provider (LSP), we spend a lot of time getting to understand the messages our clients want to convey to their new partners, customers, employees or anyone else in the fresh market they’re entering. This means helping them cut through nuances, slang, local phases and any other idioms that are specific to their language.

What’s the secret? In this article, we’ll look at how we tackle overcoming idiomatic expressions so that communication flows clearly from one language to another.

What are Idioms?

Just imagine translating the following messages to your new production partner and their employees at your brand-new office in Manila:

“We need to beef-up our security.” They’d wonder why cow’s meat was involved in security.

“You’re getting the business plan straight from the horse’s mouth.” Why is a horse speaking?

“We want to pick your brains on how we can streamline production.” Does this involve some sort of invasive surgical procedure?

You get the idea. What you really want to do is strengthen security, let them know they’re hearing the business plan from the top of the business, and you want to consult with them to hear their thoughts on streamlining production.

Understand the local culture and have alternatives on standby. After all, when communicating, there’s always more than one way to skin a cat. 

Should You Stop Using Idiomatic Expressions?

No. Well, it depends on your brand, so “no” is not a hard and fast rule, it’s just good advice for most businesses.

Idioms help business leaders, managers, and their organizations humanize themselves in their native language. They can show that they’re in touch with “the people,” but you’re on dangerous grounds using them in multilingual situations.

Top Tips in Getting Your Translating Ducks in a Row When it Comes to Idioms

Yes, another well-known idiom that has nothing to do with birds that nest around water.

• Translate idioms as a single entity for each new language - Look at them more as a single thought than a series of words.
• Maintain the intended humor - Idioms usually evolve over time and resonate because of their humor or the lightness of their tone.
• Don’t try to replace an idiom in one language with an idiom in another - It's thin ice, and it doesn’t often work. Instead, keep the idiom in the native text and simplify it (make it crystal clear) in the new language while maintaining the intended tone.
• Use linguists who are local – Who better to know what phrases will fly with the local community than a member of the local community?
• Be thorough, idioms are everywhere – Okay, you’ve probably caught the obvious ones. But in this article the idioms have come thick and fast (1), many of which you’ve probably breezed over (2) without giving it a second thought (3) because of your grasp of (4) English, to demonstrate how easy it can be for them to slip under the radar (5).
• Have a great Quality Assurance (QA) process – An independent translator, but still with local knowledge, should be involved in your quality assurance so that you get another opinion.

Don’t be Afraid to Localize Comms

Not just, “don’t be afraid”, but we’d always suggest looking for ways to localize communication for your new audience.

Get to know who they are, what their culture is like and seek out language that speaks in the same tone as your brand, but using their nuanced references.

This will ingratiate you with them and tell them that you care about who they are, their beliefs and their community.

The Ball’s in Your Court Now

(That’ll be the last one). Adhering to the rules of good translation, our best advice is to partner with the right LSP and set them the task.

They’ll bring in the right local linguists, work on each expression individually, maintain the intended tone of voice in their translations, and help you localize into your new market.

Ready to Overcome Translation Challenges?

Accurate translation is more than just converting words—it's about conveying the intended thoughts and ideas authentically across languages and cultures. We've explored the nuances of idiomatic expressions and provided you with actionable tips to ensure clear, effective communication in any market.

By understanding and applying these principles, you can avoid common pitfalls and connect meaningfully with your new audience. The value of precise and culturally attuned translations is immense, enhancing your brand’s credibility and fostering trust with your stakeholders.

Take the Next Step with LinguaLinx

If you’re ready to elevate your translation efforts, schedule a consultation with LinguaLinx today. With over two decades of experience and ISO certifications, we guarantee that your message will resonate accurately and effectively in any language.

Our dedicated team of local linguists ensures that your translations are not only precise but also culturally relevant.

Contact us now to discuss your translation and localization needs. Let’s make sure your global communication is as impactful and seamless as possible.