Frequently Asked Questions

What is a translator?

• A translator is a qualified language professional. A translator's 'qualified' status can be demonstrated through experience, professional accreditation and/or academic qualifications. As well as linguistic knowledge, a translator often works in particular specialist fields such as law, finance or science.

• A translator is not a bilingual dictionary; although all professional translators have received extensive training and are fluent in their specified languages, language by its very nature is context-dependent and the time taken to translate your document will usually include some time spent researching terminology and the subject field. This is usually an indication of a translator's professional commitment to delivering quality results, rather than of a lack of linguistic knowledge.

• A translator is not an interpreter. An interpreter works with the spoken word, whereas a translator works with the written word.

• More information can be found at http://www.iti.org.uk/indexMain.html and in the ITI booklet 'Translation - Getting It Right'.

How long will the translation take?

• A translator can translate around 2,000 words per day, on average. The exact timescale will depend on the particular job.

How much will it cost?

• I offer competitive pricing based on the size, urgency and complexity of your requirements. My prices are usually based on £ (or € or USD) per 1,000 words of source text (the language your document is written in). Visit the 'Contact Philippa' page on the left to discuss your individual requirements,