Industry Spotlight: Breaking down language barriers in life sciences

The life sciences industry is at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

However, amid the global nature of research, clinical trials, and regulatory processes, language barriers have become a significant obstacle.

Let’s explore the challenges faced by the life sciences sector in the realm of language and how hiring a professional language services provider, like Teneo Linguistics Company (TLC), can effectively eliminate these obstacles, fostering seamless communication and propelling business growth.

Challenges in the Life Sciences Industry

Global Collaboration

Problem: Life sciences companies often collaborate on an international scale, engaging with researchers, clinicians, and regulatory bodies from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Solution: TLC offers professional translation and interpreting services, ensuring that all stakeholders can communicate effectively, and facilitate smooth collaborations and knowledge exchanges.

Regulatory Compliance

Problem: The life sciences industry is subject to stringent regulatory requirements. Accurate translation of documents such as clinical trial protocols, patient information, and regulatory submissions is crucial for compliance.

Solution: With over 15 years of experience working with the life sciences industry, TLC ensures precise translations, helping companies navigate regulatory landscapes and reducing the risk of errors that could lead to costly setbacks.

Patient-Centric Communication

Problem: Communicating with patients in their native languages is essential for informed consent, adherence to treatment protocols, and overall patient satisfaction.

Solution: TLC tailors patient communication materials to diverse linguistic and cultural contexts, fostering trust and understanding between healthcare providers, researchers, and patients.

Scientific Publications

Problem: Publishing research findings in reputable journals requires accurate and culturally appropriate language usage.

Solution: TLC ensures that scientific manuscripts are not only translated accurately but also maintain the integrity and clarity of the original research, enhancing the global dissemination of scientific knowledge.

Multilingual Training Programs

Problem: Training programs for professionals involved in the life sciences industry need to be accessible to a diverse workforce.

Solution: TLC will adapt training materials, ensuring that employees worldwide receive consistent and comprehensible information, promoting skill development and compliance with industry standards.

Benefits of Professional Language Services

Accuracy and Precision

Professional language services guarantee accurate translations, reducing the risk of misunderstandings, errors, and potential legal or regulatory complications.

Time and Cost Efficiency

By outsourcing language services, life sciences companies can focus on their core competencies, saving time and resources while ensuring high-quality linguistic support.

Cultural Sensitivity

Language professionals with expertise in the life sciences industry understand the importance of cultural nuances, ensuring that translated materials are culturally sensitive and appropriate for the target audience.

Enhanced Reputation

Clear and accurate communication, facilitated by professional language services, contributes to a positive reputation within the industry and among stakeholders.

In the highly regulated and globally interconnected life sciences industry, overcoming language barriers is crucial for success.

As the industry continues to evolve, embracing professional language services is not just a strategic choice but a necessity for those aiming to thrive in the dynamic landscape of life sciences.

Get a quote today on your language project from TLC by visiting www.tlctranslation.com.

Christmas Celebrations: A Tapestry of Traditions Across the World

The magic of Christmas transcends borders, uniting people across the world in a shared celebration of joy, love, and traditions.

While the essence of the holiday remains the same, the way it is celebrated varies from country to country, creating a beautiful tapestry of customs that reflect each culture’s unique history and heritage. Join us on a festive journey around the world as we explore the diverse Christmas traditions that make this season truly special.

Australia: Beach Celebrations and Carols by Candlelight

Christmas in Australia falls during the southern hemisphere’s summer, leading to unique celebrations. Many Australians spend Christmas day at the beach, enjoying barbecues and outdoor activities.

Carols by Candlelight events are also popular, where communities gather to sing Christmas carols by the soft glow of candlelight.

Ethiopia: Ganna, the Christmas Feast

Ethiopian Christians celebrate Christmas, known as Ganna, on January 7th.

The celebration includes attending church services, feasting on traditional dishes like injera (a sourdough flatbread), and engaging in festive dances. Ganna is a time of joy and religious reflection.

Germany: Christmas Markets and Advent Calendars

In Germany, the festive season is marked by enchanting Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte). These markets, adorned with twinkling lights and decorated stalls, offer a variety of seasonal treats, handcrafted ornaments, and gifts.

Additionally, Germans count down to Christmas with Advent calendars, opening a door each day to reveal a small surprise or treat.

India: Christmas in Goa

In the state of Goa, India, which has a significant Christian population, Christmas is celebrated with great fervor.

Midnight Mass is a key part of the festivities, and homes are adorned with colorful lights and decorations. Traditional Goan sweets and feasts are prepared to mark the occasion.

Italy: La Befana and the Feast of Seven Fishes

Italy embraces a mix of religious and folk traditions during the holiday season. On January 6th, the Feast of the Epiphany, an old woman known as La Befana is said to deliver gifts to children.

In southern Italy, the Feast of Seven Fishes is a Christmas Eve tradition where families gather to enjoy a lavish meal featuring various seafood dishes.

Japan: KFC and Illumination Displays

In Japan, Christmas is not a public holiday, but it’s widely celebrated. A unique tradition involves enjoying a Christmas feast from Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). The concept of a “Kentucky Christmas” has become so popular that families often place orders months in advance. Additionally, dazzling illumination displays adorn cities, creating a festive atmosphere.

Mexico: Las Posadas and Nochebuena

Mexican Christmas traditions are vibrant and full of symbolism. Las Posadas, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, is a popular processional that takes place over nine nights.

On Christmas Eve, families come together for Nochebuena, a festive feast featuring traditional dishes like tamales and bacalao (salted codfish).

Sweden: St. Lucia’s Day

Sweden celebrates St. Lucia’s Day on December 13th, honoring the Christian martyr who brought light to the darkness. Young girls dress in white robes with red sashes and wear crowns of candles as they lead processions, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

United States: Home of the Festive Spectacle

In the United States, Christmas is synonymous with grandeur and spectacle. Cities dazzle with elaborate light displays, and homes compete for the title of the best-decorated house.

Families gather around the Christmas tree on December 25th to exchange gifts and share a festive meal, often featuring the iconic roast turkey.

Despite the different customs and celebrations, the underlying spirit of love, generosity, and togetherness remains universal. This holiday season, let us embrace and appreciate the myriad ways in which people around the world come together to make Christmas a truly magical and meaningful time of the year.

Teneo Linguistics Company is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 200 languages. Learn more about how TLC can support your company with expert language services at www.tlctranslation.com.

Merry Christmas from TLC!

Localizing Apps: Best practices for accessibility, cultural appropriateness

Reaching a wide audience with your mobile app is a top priority for developers and businesses alike. However, simply translating text isn’t enough.

To truly resonate with users around the world, you need to localize your mobile app. This means adapting not only the language but also the design, content, and functionalities to suit different cultures and regions.

This piece will discuss best practices for localizing apps, ensuring they are accessible and culturally appropriate worldwide.

Understanding the Importance of Localization

Again, localization is not just about translating words, but also about considering regional preferences, norms, and sensibilities.

Here’s why localization is crucial for the success of your mobile app:

  • Expanded User Base: Localization opens the door to a global audience. It allows you to connect with users who may not speak your app’s original language.
  • Improved User Experience: A localized app provides a more comfortable and intuitive experience for users, increasing their satisfaction and engagement.
  • Enhanced Credibility and Trust: Users are more likely to trust and engage with an app that speaks their language and aligns with their cultural norms.
  • Competitive Advantage: In a crowded marketplace, offering a localized app can give you a significant edge over competitors who haven’t taken this step.

Best Practices for Mobile App Localization

Cultural Research and Understanding

Before you start the localization process, conduct thorough research on your target market’s culture, preferences, and behaviors. Understand their customs, holidays, and any cultural taboos that might affect the content or design of your app.

Multilingual Content Management

Translate all text and content within the app, including UI elements, instructions, error messages, and multimedia. Use professional translators who are native speakers of the target language and understand the nuances of the culture.

Design for Global Accessibility

Consider the diversity in screen sizes, resolutions, and aspect ratios of mobile devices worldwide. Ensure your app’s layout and design elements are flexible and responsive to accommodate these variations.

Regionalized User Interface (UI)

Customize the UI elements to match the visual preferences of the target audience. This includes colors, icons, images, and even navigation patterns.

Localized App Store Listings

Optimize your app’s listing on app stores with keywords and descriptions that are relevant to the target market. This improves discoverability among users in that region.

Date, Time, and Currency Formats

Adapt date and time formats, as well as currency symbols, to align with regional conventions. This ensures that users feel comfortable and familiar with the information presented.

Compliance with Local Regulations

Be aware of legal requirements and regulations that may differ from one region to another, such as privacy policies, age restrictions, and content restrictions.

User Feedback and Iteration

Encourage users to provide feedback on the localized version of your app. This can be invaluable in uncovering cultural nuances that may have been overlooked initially.

Regular Updates and Maintenance

Languages evolve, and so do user preferences. Keep your app updated with the latest translations and cultural adjustments to maintain its relevance.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Rigorously test the localized version of your app to ensure all elements function correctly and that there are no linguistic or cultural discrepancies.

Localizing your mobile app is not just a matter of translation; it’s about creating an inclusive, culturally sensitive experience for users globally.

By partnering with a professional language services provider, like Teneo Linguistics Company (TLC), you can tap into new markets and build a diverse and engaged user base. Remember, it’s a dynamic process that requires ongoing attention and adaptation, but the rewards in terms of user satisfaction and business success are well worth it.

Learn more about TLC’s software localization services and get a quote today at www.tlctranslation.com.

The Language of Food: Exploring culinary terms and traditions

Food is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries and brings people together.

From the aromatic spices of India to the delicate flavors of French cuisine, each culture has its unique culinary traditions and terminology.

Let’s embark on a delicious journey through the language of food, exploring various culinary terms and traditions from around the world.

Flavorful Expressions

Food-related idioms and expressions provide insight into the way diverse cultures perceive and appreciate their cuisine. For example, in English, we say spill the beans to mean revealing a secret, whereas in Spanish, dar calabazas (to give pumpkins), means rejecting someone romantically. These linguistic nuances highlight the cultural significance of food and its integration into everyday language.

Food Terminology

Every culture has a rich lexicon of culinary terms that capture the essence of their traditional dishes. Whether it is the Italian al dente to describe perfectly cooked pasta or the Japanese umami to denote the savory fifth taste, these terms encapsulate the unique qualities of different foods and cooking techniques.

Exploring food terminology can also uncover fascinating historical and cultural contexts. For instance, the Indian term masala refers to a blend of spices, representing the country’s vibrant and diverse culinary heritage. Similarly, the French word terroir encompasses the environmental factors that influence the taste and quality of wine, cheese, and other regional products.

Traditional Food Customs

Food is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and customs. Each country has its culinary rituals that have been passed down through generations. From the elaborate multi-course meals of French haute cuisine to the communal Ethiopian injera bread shared at the table, these traditions reflect different societies’ values and social dynamics.

Exploring traditional food customs also sheds light on the significance of certain dishes during festivals and celebrations. For example, mooncakes are an integral part of the Mid-Autumn Festival in China, symbolizing unity and family.

Chinese mooncakes.

Similarly, the turkey holds a central place on the Thanksgiving table in the United States, representing gratitude and abundance.

Regional Specialties

Culinary terms and traditions vary not only from country to country but also within different regions of the same country. Exploring regional specialties provides a deeper understanding of the diverse culinary landscape within a particular culture.

For instance, Italy boasts a plethora of regional delicacies such as Neapolitan pizza, Tuscan ribollita, and Sicilian cannoli. Each dish reflects the distinct ingredients, cooking methods, and cultural influences of its respective region.

Sicilian cannoli

Similarly, the varied cuisines of India, ranging from the spicy curries of the south to the vegetarian delights of Gujarat, highlight the country’s incredible culinary diversity.

Food is much more than sustenance; it is an art form, a medium for cultural expression, and a way to connect with others.

Exploring the language of food allows us to appreciate the rich tapestry of global gastronomy, its unique terminology, and the traditions that shape it. So, the next time you savor a dish or engage in a culinary conversation, remember that food speaks volumes about a culture’s history, values, and creativity. Bon appétit!

Teneo Linguistics Company is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 180 languages. Learn more about how TLC can support your company at www.tlctranslation.com.

How digital communication is shaping the way we speak, write

The rise of social media and digital communication platforms has transformed the way we interact with each other, including how we speak and write.

The unique characteristics of social media platforms have significantly influenced our language and communication patterns in this digital age. Social media has altered our communication methods. We now use shorter messages, emojis, hashtags, and abbreviations. This has resulted in a new way of expressing ourselves.

This piece will explore how social media and digital communication have shaped our language, for better or worse, and examine the impact it has had on our daily communication.

The Age of Brevity

Social media platforms have imposed limitations on the length of messages, forcing us to condense our thoughts and ideas into bite-sized snippets. The popularity of microblogging platforms like Twitter, with its 280-character limit, has led to the rise of concise and to-the-point communication.

The art of conveying meaningful messages within these constraints has become a valuable skill. As a result, we have witnessed a shift towards brevity, where acronyms, abbreviations, and shortened words have become commonplace.

The Language of Emojis

In an era where a picture is worth a thousand words, emojis have emerged as a powerful tool for expression. These tiny icons transcend language barriers and allow us to convey emotions and sentiments in a visually appealing manner.

With a single emoji, we can express joy, sadness, sarcasm, or even complex ideas. Emojis have become an integral part of digital communication, often serving as substitutes for textual descriptions. The language of emojis has enabled us to enhance our written communication by adding nuance and context to our messages.

The Rise of Hashtags

Hashtags, originally popularized by Twitter, have revolutionized the way we organize and discover content on social media platforms. They serve as keywords or tags that categorize posts, making them easily searchable and allowing users to join conversations on specific topics.

Hashtags have not only influenced the way we write but also how we think about our messages. They have become a powerful tool for amplifying voices, promoting social causes, and creating communities around shared interests.

Informalization of Language

Social media has witnessed the blurring of formal and informal language boundaries. The need for quick and casual communication has led to the adoption of colloquial language, slang, and memes in digital conversations.

This informality has seeped into other forms of written communication, including emails and professional interactions. While it fosters a sense of familiarity and relatability, it also poses challenges in maintaining a distinction between formal and informal contexts.

Amplified Expression and Connectivity

Social media platforms have provided a platform for individuals to express themselves freely and connect with like-minded people. Digital communication has given a voice to marginalized groups and facilitated the sharing of diverse perspectives.

It has allowed individuals to engage in public discourse, raise awareness about social issues, and mobilize support for various causes. The democratization of communication has empowered individuals to shape public opinion and influence societal change.

As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, it is crucial to strike a balance between embracing the advantages of digital communication and preserving the richness of language.

We can use social media and still communicate meaningfully in the digital age by adapting to new ways of expressing ourselves.

Teneo Linguistics Company (TLC) is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 180 languages. Learn more about how TLC can support your company with professional language services at www.tlctranslation.com

Pitfalls of relying on bilingual employees as translators

Language barriers can be a significant hurdle for businesses looking to expand their reach. To overcome this obstacle, many companies often turn to their bilingual employees for translation tasks.

While utilizing bilingual staff may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is crucial to understand the potential pitfalls and drawbacks associated with this approach. Here is a closer look into why relying solely on bilingual employees as translators may not be the best choice for your business.

Limited Translation Expertise

Fluency in two or more languages does not automatically guarantee translation proficiency. Translation is a complex skill that requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and industry-specific terminology.

Bilingual employees may lack the specialized training and expertise that professional translators possess, leading to inaccuracies, misinterpretations, and potential misunderstandings.

Diverted Focus from Core Responsibilities

Assigning translation tasks to bilingual employees can lead to a significant diversion of their attention from their primary roles within the company. This can adversely affect their productivity, as they may have to sacrifice their time and energy for translation work rather than focusing on their core responsibilities.

Overburdening employees with additional tasks can lead to burnout and a decrease in overall job satisfaction, potentially impacting their performance in other areas.

Potential Bias and Conflict of Interest

Using bilingual employees as translators may create conflicts of interest or bias. When an employee translates documents or communications for their employer, they may inadvertently alter the content to align with their personal views or company goals. This bias can distort the intended message and compromise the accuracy and impartiality of the translation.

To ensure objective and unbiased translations, it is best to engage external professional translators who are dedicated to delivering accurate and neutral translations.

Lack of Time and Availability

Translation projects often have tight deadlines and require quick turnarounds. Bilingual employees may not have the bandwidth or availability to meet these demands consistently. Juggling translation work alongside their regular duties can result in delays, rushed translations, or compromised quality.

A professional language services provider like Teneo Linguistics Company (TLC), on the other hand, has dedicated teams and resources specifically designed to handle time-sensitive projects, ensuring timely and high-quality translations.

Potential Legal and Regulatory Risks

Certain industries, such as healthcare, finance, and legal services, require precise and accurate translations to comply with specific regulations and standards. Relying solely on bilingual employees for translation in these sectors can pose significant legal and regulatory risks.

Professional translators possess the necessary expertise and knowledge to ensure compliance with industry-specific requirements, reducing the chances of legal issues or misinterpretations.

While it may be tempting to utilize bilingual employees as translators to save costs and streamline internal processes, it is crucial to consider the potential drawbacks and risks involved.

Investing in professional translation services ensures that your business communications are accurately conveyed, allowing you to build trust, avoid misunderstandings, and effectively engage with a global audience.

Teneo Linguistics Company is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 180 languages. Learn more about how TLC can assist your company’s language needs at www.tlctranslation.com

Global Marketing: Adapting content to local cultural norms

In today’s interconnected world, businesses have unprecedented opportunities to reach global audiences. However, as they expand their reach across borders, one crucial aspect of marketing cannot be overlooked: localization.

Localization involves adapting content and marketing strategies to fit the cultural norms, preferences, and languages of specific target markets. By tailoring their messages to resonate with local audiences, businesses can create more impactful marketing campaigns and foster strong connections with potential customers worldwide.

Understanding Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity is a defining characteristic of our world, with each country, region, and even city possessing its unique set of values, traditions, and linguistic nuances. What may be appealing or acceptable in one culture can be completely misunderstood or even offensive in another.

Localization recognizes and respects these differences by ensuring that marketing content is not only translated accurately but also adapted to reflect the cultural context of the target market.

Language Adaptation

Language is the most fundamental element of localization. While English is widely spoken and understood, a large portion of the global population prefers consuming content in their native language. Thus, translating marketing materials into the local language is essential for effective communication.

It is crucial to go beyond mere translation and consider linguistic nuances, idiomatic expressions, and even regional dialects. Localizing content ensures that it resonates with the target audience, making them feel more connected to the brand and its offerings.

Cultural Nuances

Beyond language, cultural norms and values play a vital role in shaping consumer behavior. What may be considered appropriate or desirable in one culture might be perceived differently in another. Localization involves adapting content to reflect these cultural nuances. This can involve modifying imagery, adjusting color schemes, using locally relevant examples, and incorporating cultural references that resonate with the target audience.

By doing so, businesses demonstrate their understanding and respect for the local culture, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust.

Customizing Marketing Strategies

Localization also involves customizing marketing strategies to align with local preferences and market dynamics. This may include adjusting pricing structures, promotional tactics, distribution channels, and even product features to cater to specific markets.

By acknowledging and adapting to the unique needs and preferences of local consumers, businesses can gain a competitive edge and position themselves as trusted partners rather than foreign entities.

Building Trust and Brand Loyalty

Localization surpasses mere communication; it builds trust and establishes brand loyalty. When businesses invest in understanding and adapting to local cultural norms, they demonstrate their commitment to the local community and their willingness to cater to their needs.

This level of customization creates a deeper connection with consumers, leading to higher engagement, increased brand awareness, and ultimately, customer loyalty. By acknowledging the importance of localization, businesses can foster long-term relationships with customers worldwide.

Localization is important for businesses to succeed in global markets and grow sustainably. Investing in this helps navigate complexities and empowers success.

Teneo Linguistics Company offers customized localization and transcreation services in addition to professional translation, interpreting, transcription, consulting, and bilingual staffing. TLC is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in these services in over 180 languages. Visit www.tlctranslation.com to get a quote for your business today. 

Evolution of language: Ancient roots to modern expressions

Language is the cornerstone of human communication and has played a crucial role in our evolution as a species.

From the earliest forms of communication to the complex linguistic systems we use today, the evolution of language is a fascinating journey that reflects the development of human society, culture, and cognition.

The exact origins of language remain a subject of debate among linguists and scientists. However, it is widely accepted that human language emerged as a means of communication in our early hominid ancestors. The development of the vocal tract, improved cognitive abilities, and increased social interactions are believed to have contributed to the evolution of early forms of language.

The Early Forms of Language

Early human language likely started with simple vocalizations, gestures, and facial expressions. These primitive forms of communication were limited in their ability to convey complex ideas, but they served as a foundation for the development of more sophisticated linguistic systems.

Over time, early humans began to combine sounds, gestures, and visual cues to create a more nuanced and expressive means of communication.

The Birth of Written Language

The invention of writing marks a significant milestone in the evolution of language.

Ancient civilizations, such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Chinese, independently developed systems of writing to record information and communicate across time and space. The advent of written language allowed for the preservation and transmission of knowledge, enabling the accumulation of human culture and history.

Language and Cultural Evolution

Language is deeply intertwined with culture, and as human societies evolved, so did their languages. Different cultures and regions developed their unique languages, dialects, and linguistic features, shaped by their history, environment, and social interactions. This diversity of languages reflects the richness and complexity of human cultural expression.

The Rise of Global Languages

As civilizations expanded and interacted through trade, conquest, and colonization, certain languages gained prominence as lingua francas (a language that is adopted as a common language between speakers whose native languages are different).

Greek, Latin, Arabic, and English are among the languages that have played significant roles as vehicles of communication, administration, science, and trade across different periods of time. In recent centuries, English has emerged as the global language of business, diplomacy, and technology, further facilitating global interactions.

Modern Expressions and Language Evolution

The modern era, marked by rapid advancements in technology and communication, has led to new forms of language evolution. The rise of the internet and social media platforms has introduced a new realm of communication, where emojis, acronyms, and hashtags have become integral to online discourse.

These digital expressions reflect the need for efficient communication in a fast-paced and interconnected world.

Language is continually evolving, adapting to societal changes and technological advancements. With the increasing interconnectedness of the world, it is likely that languages will continue to blend, borrow, and evolve, giving rise to new forms of expression.

Additionally, emerging technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence are shaping the way we communicate, raising questions about the potential impact on language and human interaction.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of communication, it is crucial to appreciate the origins, development, and diversity of languages while embracing the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Language, in all its forms, will continue to shape our understanding of the world, foster connections between individuals and cultures, and serve as a powerful tool for expressing the human experience.

Teneo Linguistics Company is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 180 languages. Learn more about how your company can benefit from TLC’s professional services at www.tlctranslation.com.

Transcription in research: Maximizing data accuracy, accessibility

Research is an essential component of progress and development in various fields such as medicine, technology, and social sciences. However, conducting research can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to collecting and analyzing data.

Multilingual transcription plays a vital role in research by ensuring data accuracy and accessibility.

What is Multilingual Transcription?

Multilingual transcription involves the process of converting audio or video recordings in different languages into written text.

This process enables researchers to analyze and understand data more effectively. It involves listening to the recordings, transcribing them into written text, and translating the text into the desired language.

Multilingual transcription is essential in research for several reasons:

• It ensures data accuracy. Transcribing audio or video recordings into written text makes it easier to analyze the data accurately. It also eliminates errors that may occur during the transcription process, such as omitting critical information or misinterpreting the meaning of words.

• Multilingual transcription increases data accessibility. Transcribing data into written text makes it easier for researchers to access and analyze the data. It also allows researchers to share the data with others, which increases collaboration and enables further research and analysis.

• It is crucial for conducting cross-cultural research. Researchers may encounter participants who speak different languages, and therefore, multilingual transcription allows for the transcription of data from different languages. This increases the accuracy and validity of research findings as it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic.

• It is essential for researchers who are not fluent in the language spoken by their participants. Transcribing data into written text allows researchers to understand the data more effectively, even if they are not fluent in the language spoken by the participants.

• Finally, multilingual transcription is necessary for conducting research in multilingual settings. Transcribing data in multiple languages allows researchers to analyze and compare data across different languages and cultures, which enhances their understanding of the research topic.

Multilingual transcription increases collaboration between researchers and allows for further research and analysis. Therefore, it is essential for researchers to prioritize multilingual transcription to maximize the accuracy and validity of their research findings.

Teneo Linguistics Company (TLC) offers both audio and video transcription services in most language combinations. Producing high-quality, clear, and frequently confidential transcription can be a complex process that TLC handles with ease and at an affordable price.

From taped meetings and video surveillance to conference proceedings, seminars, e-learning, clinical interviews, market research, psychological assessments, and podcasts, TLC provides transcription services that are tailored to a company’s needs.

Get a quote today by visiting www.tlctranslation.com.

How language shapes our thoughts, perception of the world

Language is a powerful tool that we use to communicate with others and express our thoughts and ideas. However, it also plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts and perception of the world.

From how we see colors and shapes to how we understand complex ideas, language influences how we experience and interact with the world around us.

One of the most significant ways in which language shapes our perception is through the categorization of objects and concepts. We use language to label and organize the things we encounter, which can influence how we perceive them.

One of the most important uses of language is the definition of the self, besides others, and the relations between these groups. Pronouns like I, you, and we exist in almost all languages, but very few languages use the same assortment. The formal-informal distinction is still found in many widely spoken modern languages, like French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian (among many others), and is as such quite familiar.

Standard Chinese has two pronouns for ‘we’— one excluding the person to who the language addressed (us but not you), and another ‘we’ for including that person (us and you). This sort of flexibility offers speakers more frequent chances to distinguish these differences between in-and-out groups.

Similarly, expressing action in relation to other people in Japanese requires the consideration of many distinctions entirely absent from English. Perhaps most dramatically, most verbs that take another as a direct or indirect object must be appended with a suffix which signals whether or not that other person is a member of one’s social in- or out-group, and whether the action was kindly received by a superior within that community hierarchy, or kindly performed for one to whom the speaker is either a peer or a superior, such as a close friend in an especially informal setting, or a younger family member or pet.

English speakers don’t use ‘thou’ anymore, but for Japanese speakers, even the word ‘to do’— is a choice between yaru (for those below the speaker in hierarchy) and suru (neutral).

In English, we use different words to describe blue and describe tints of blue by adding an adjective to the front, such as light blue and dark blue. In contrast in Russian, there are entirely different words for light blue, goluboi, and dark blue, siniy. If an English speaker requested that they be handed a red item from an assortment, and instead received the pink one, they’d feel their request was mishandled— not that there was an ambiguity in their request. Similarly, a Russian speaker expecting a new car in navy blue would be shocked to receive one in cornflower or sky blue. As in English, Russian also treats red and pink as distinct colors.

Similarly, the way in which languages categorize nouns can also shape how speakers perceive and remember them. For example, in English, we categorize objects as either animate, living, or inanimate, non-living. However, in some languages, such as Spanish and French, objects are categorized as either masculine or feminine, which can influence how speakers remember and conceptualize those objects.

Language can also shape our perception of time and space. For example, in English, we tend to think of time as a linear progression, with the past behind us and the future ahead. Certain languages, like Turkish and Japanese, make sure to relate whether or not a past event was directly experienced, or if it was simply related to the speaker.

In English, “It rained.” is so simple as to feel objective and factual, yet Turkish speakers must first consider whether to say, “Yağmur yağdı”, i.e. it rained, and I saw the rain, or “Yağmur yağmış”, i.e. everything is wet; it rained.

However, some cultures, such as the Aymara people of South America, think of time as moving from east to west, with the past in front of them and the future behind.

This difference in perception can influence how speakers of different languages plan for the future, as well as how they remember past events.

Similarly, the way in which languages describe spatial relationships can also shape how speakers perceive and navigate the world.

In English, we use words like in, on, and under to describe the location of objects. However, some languages, such as Tzeltal Maya, use words that describe the shape and orientation of objects in relation to each other, which can lead speakers to perceive spatial relationships differently.

Finally, language can also influence how we perceive and express emotions. Different languages have different words and expressions for emotions, which can influence how speakers perceive and experience those emotions. In Japanese, there are many words for different types of sadness and happiness. The most frequently used and general word, 悲しい kanashii is quite similar to the most limited sense of the English word sad.

In English, ‘sad’ has multiple distinct meanings: in addition to the opposite of happy (as described above), one can also use ‘sad’ to evaluate a person, situation, or circumstance in the sense of wretched, or deplorable. In Japanese, we’d need a totally different word, 嘆かわしい nagekawashii. 痛ましい itamashii, however, takes the kanji for ‘injury’ or ‘pain’ to mean sadness with a specific point of heartbreak or tragedy responsible for the emotion.  

While English also has many different words for sadness, the point is that the lack of direct equivalencies leads to different expressions of the nature, origin, and circumstance of the emotion of sadness.

As we continue to study language and its effects on the brain and behavior, we can gain a deeper understanding of how language shapes our perception of the world and the implications of these effects for communication and cognition.

Teneo Linguistics Company is a certified small, woman-owned business that specializes in a variety of customizable language services in over 180 languages. Learn more by visiting www.tlctranslation.com.

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