Who would have thought that entering the world of translation would force into becoming culture-savvy comedians? To make sure the translation reflects the tone and meaning of the original text, the translators and interpreters at TranslationsInLondon have got some techniques and tips on how to achieve the perfect balance between laughs and linguistics!

Before beginning any translation, it is important to be aware of the cultural nuances and beliefs. This is because some things one culture may find funny or might not think twice about could cause serious offence in another (check out our social media post on Instagram/LinkedIn/Facebook, @translationsinlondon, about hand gestures and how they can cause cross-culture communication issues!). Also, pop-culture references might not be known by the receiver of the translated text, being able to either explain the reference or find a fitting alternative is just as important. So, make sure your chosen translator has a solid understanding of the cultures they are representing!

Working Around the Jokes

The hard working translators here at TiL are well practiced in translating difficult documents and as jokes are among some of the hardest excerpts to translate, it is safe to say our translators know what they’re doing. For the benefit of other translators, aspiring or well-founded, we wanted to share some top tips for successfully translating and interpreting humour:

Adaptation:

When word play is used in the source document, it can cause some difficulty for translators as they want to convey the original tone of the message while also ensuring it makes sense to the reader. So, when linguistic techniques such as palindromes, portmanteaus, spoonerisms and puns etc. are used, getting the translation just right can be a challenge. According to Low [2011], there are eight strategies that can be used to properly translate a joke:

1) Working backwards: translating the punch line before the delivery can possibly result in a ‘tighter and punchier’ translation. Once the punch line has been established, explanations or any additional details can be added if they are needed.

2) Compensation: If the original or literal translation of a joke is deemed inappropriate, the translator can then use a different, more fitting statement by adding ‘exaggeration, a malapropism, or a simile’ in order to achieve the same humorous tone.

3) Placement: Allow the joke to continue into the next sentence by inserting another witty illusion.

4) Dilution: Limit the number of jokes to help the text to flow better.

5) Extension: Sometimes a joke that was originally delivered in one line fits the translation better when split into two clauses or sentences.

6) Exaggeration: When the original pun does not quite convey the same meaning when translated, adding exaggeration will allow for the message to be properly conveyed.

7) Signaling: This is useful when live-interpreting. If the joke cannot be easily translated or adapted, by explicitly stating a joke was said will allow the listener to respond accordingly.

8) Substitution: If the joke cannot be accurately or appropriately translated, by swapping that joke with a different one but fits the context the translator can overcome the difficulties of translating humor.

Low, Peter Alan. 2011. Translating jokes and puns. Perspectives: Studies in Translatology 19(1): 59–70.

Mastering the Translation of Humour

From all of this, it is clear to see that adaptation, timing and meaning are hugely important when conveying the tone of the joke.

Being able to trust your translators and interpreters with your documents and knowing their meanings will be properly expressed accurately and appropriately will allow your business and goals to be achieved smoothly with as little confusion as possible.

Why not trust TranslationsInLondon with all your translation needs?! Our team of translators/interpreters are trained and ready to help you achieve your linguistic and language needs!