The translation profession is anything but monotonous. This is particularly true when you are part of a major translation agency in Tashkent, where each day brings unique challenges. Sometimes clients bring in texts that require not only dictionaries but also a sense of humor. Today, we'd like to share some of curiosities and surprises that translators in Tashkent have encountered.
From Romantic Correspondence to Ancient Incantations
Among most memorable assignments was translating 19th-century French romantic correspondence into Uzbek. The source texts were rich in archaic language, ornate literary style, and overflowing emotions. To truly capture the spirit of the era, translators consulted historical literary sources and collaborated with philology specialists. On another occasion, a client brought in an ancient manuscript written in Old English, requesting an English-to-Uzbek translation.
When Technical Language Becomes a Puzzle
Technical translation services in Uzbekistan is a specialized field of expertise. This becomes especially evident when translators are tasked with correcting job previously handled by inexperienced freelancers. Some manuals, pre-translated with machine translation software, present genuine challenges for end users. In one notable case, the instruction “tighten the bolt“ had been rendered as “hug the bolt”, and “closed circuit“ — as “chain of restraint”.
Our technical translators do more than just correct glaring mistakes — every term is meticulously checked for industry-specific terminological compliance. This is vital, especially when translating technical documentation and drawings, where a single mistranslated term could result in equipment malfunction.
Unexpected Challenges in Interpretation
Simultaneous interpretation is equally full of unpredictable moments. During one IT conference, a speaker unexpectedly began rapping as part of a machine learning demonstration. The interpreter had to adapt instantly, maintaining the hip-hop rhythm. Accents bring their own surprises: speech of one Scottish client was so distinctive that even native English speakers struggled to understand him. Simultaneous and consecutive interpretation requires not only language mastery but also exceptional adaptability and quick thinking.
Other Exceptional Requests Included:
- Correcting a restaurant menu where automated translation had transformed “fried carp” into “flaming fish of destiny”;
- Translating a user agreement into medieval English style for a client who was a role-playing game enthusiast.
- Translating rock band lyrics from English into Russian, preserving both rhyme and meaning.
How Do We Achieve Success?
The secret behind our success is simple: years of experience, a sense of humor, and team work. At Global Translation Service in Tashkent, we are prepared for every type of request — from document and certificate translations to the most unconventional requests. Our team includes technical translators, interpreters, editors, and linguists who welcome even the most challenging projects.
We utilize professional tools, collaborate with native speakers, and consult with subject-matter experts across various fields, including legal professionals, engineers, or even poets.
Translation agencies in Tashkent encounter unexpected assignments daily. While some projects are fun, others present significant challenges, but all prove intellectually stimulating. The fundamental principle is that every text deserves respect, careful attention, and a professional approach.