07-24-2006, 11:11 AM
Among my hobbyhorses is that translaters of Greek texts invariably render Greek kamelos as camel, although it is a dromedary. It is a very common mistake in translations.
I am now preparing a list of common errors, which will be used by a new Dutch journal and a publishing house. Translators may benefit from the solutions others have found for recognizable problems. What's the difference between a javelin, a spear, and a lance? Can you use expressions like 'orthodox' and 'heretical'? How to prevent that vague and confusing word "Celt'? What's the difference between apostles, disciples, and the Twelve? Is there a difference between 'naval forces' and 'marine'?
Of course, most of these details are trivial, but errors distract, and distraction diminishes the pleasure of reading. And besides, there is no reason not do things well.
No doubt, all of you have spotted errors in English translations, and -seeing the love with which many of us write about the details of this type of helmet or that type of spear- I would not be surprised if you like to tell more about it. If the problem is relevant to Dutch translations, I will include it in my list; if it is not, I will use it for a future English list.
I am now preparing a list of common errors, which will be used by a new Dutch journal and a publishing house. Translators may benefit from the solutions others have found for recognizable problems. What's the difference between a javelin, a spear, and a lance? Can you use expressions like 'orthodox' and 'heretical'? How to prevent that vague and confusing word "Celt'? What's the difference between apostles, disciples, and the Twelve? Is there a difference between 'naval forces' and 'marine'?
Of course, most of these details are trivial, but errors distract, and distraction diminishes the pleasure of reading. And besides, there is no reason not do things well.
No doubt, all of you have spotted errors in English translations, and -seeing the love with which many of us write about the details of this type of helmet or that type of spear- I would not be surprised if you like to tell more about it. If the problem is relevant to Dutch translations, I will include it in my list; if it is not, I will use it for a future English list.
