Arij—FAQ

What is proof reading?

This is a final read through of a client’s document, usually destined for print or web pages — for the client who needs to be reasonably sure that published materials have no spelling, punctuation, or grammar mistakes, and that they are clear and convey the right impression to those reading the material. The first proof of the printed document or the first draft of web pages is checked for errors by a well educated speaker of the language.

What is translation?

Translation deals with documents and the written word. Source language is the language of the client’s original document, target language is the language into which the source document is to be translated. Arij provides quotations for translation jobs based on a word count.

Why is there a minimum charge?

It takes a similar amount of administrative work to organise a translation or proof reading of 50 words as for translation or proof reading of 1000 words. Also, the translator or proofreader needs to spend a certain amount of time for familiarisation with the document, regardless of its length.

For publication, or not?

If a translated document is to be published, proofreading by a third party is usually necessary, and indeed recommended by Arij. However, if a translation is required simply so that the client can understand the meaning of the text, a straightforward translation is all that is needed.

What is the deadline?

Most clients need a translation or proof reading by a particular date. For this reason Arij gives a delivery date as well as a price for a translation. Clients for whom the delivery date is essential should enquire again about the agreed delivery date when they are in a position to place the work.

What can I expect the translator to achieve each day?

The professional translator is committed to the quality of translation work, and the nature of the translation work means that certain kinds of text require more time and effort than others. Typically, a translator will turn round 2000 words a day.

What is the word count based upon?

Arij’s word count is typically the word count of the document translated into the target language.

What about errors?

Typically there are errors in the source document which is to be translated, so it is not surprising that there are errors in the final document. Our professional translators will point out errors they find in the original document and will offer to correct them in the context of the target document. The client will decide what is to be done in this case.