Translation provider for business and organisations

Making sense the world over

Frequently asked questions about our translation services

The following information may be helpful in getting your translation project started. If you don’t see what you need to know, why not get in touch to ask your question in person?

What is the difference between a translator and an interpreter?

In general, a translator works with the written word while an interpreter works with the spoken word in a “live” situation. So a translator works on something static, such as a piece of text in an email, product label or annual report. Of course, this can include film scripts or speech that has been written down (or “transcribed”) before being translated. An interpreter talks in real time, for instance at a meeting or conference. While both interpreting and translation require knowledge and understanding of the languages involved, the task itself is very different and requires different skills and abilities.

WorldAccent focuses on the written word, and supplies written translation of languages from around the globe.

How much will my translation cost?

The price will depend on the target language and the length of the source text, with the rate usually expressed as a pro-rata amount per 1,000 words. The type of subject matter can also have an effect: a technical translation will often cost more than a general one. Factors such as tight deadlines and the format of the source document may also affect pricing. Contact us or email a PDF of your document, and we will send you a price estimate by return.

How long will my translation take?

The time required to translate a document depends on the length of your source text. For most documents, a reasonable rule of thumb is that a translator can work through 1,500 words per day. Complex technical documents or those requiring significant background research may take longer.

Urgent projects can sometimes be speeded up by “out of hours” working or dividing the project between individual translators. This depends on the details of the project, and the importance of absolute consistency throughout. However urgent your translation, we recommend contacting one of project managers at the earliest opportunity to discuss your options.

Which languages does WorldAccent translate into?

We provide translation to and from all commonly used business languages, as well as most of the UK’s “community languages”. In addition we work with many languages beyond these: over 100 in total. However “unusual” the language, contact us to discuss how we can help with your translation.

It is worth bearing in mind that your intended audience’s geographic location can matter too. For instance, there are differences between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese so it is important to specify. Feel free to get in touch for advice if you are unsure.

Whatever the language, our large pool of translators offers expert translation appropriate to your subject area.

Can WorldAccent proofread existing translations?

Yes. WorldAccent offers a translation proofreading service. We can proofread a standalone document or check a translation against its original. Please contact us for timings and rates.

Does WorldAccent work for private individuals as well as companies?

Generally not; we only work for companies, NGOs, local authorities and other organisations. For instance, we do not offer translation of individual marriage or birth certificates. However if you are a private individual with a large project, such as a thesis translation, then please do get in touch for a quote.

How do I become a translator for WorldAccent?

WorldAccent works with a team of professional freelance translators. This usually means being educated to degree level and having a higher level qualification in translation, in addition to being a native speaker of your target language. You should write impeccably in your mother tongue with a style and tone appropriate to a given subject and target audience. Expertise and experience in particular subject areas would be an advantage. If you think you would be eligible to join our freelance team, please email your CV here.

I have a question about my translation project that is not answered above

Please get in touch to discuss your organisation’s translation needs in person.