February 2015 Volume XLIV Number 2 A Publication of the American The Voice of Interpreters and Translators Translators Association The ATACHRONICLE

ATA’s Nomination Process ATA’s School Outreach Term Extraction Game Localization American Translators From the President Association 225 Reinekers Lane Caitilin Walsh Suite 590 [email protected] Alexandria, VA 22314 USA Tel: +1-703-683-6100 Fax: +1-703-683-6122 Volunteer Valentines E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.atanet.org Even though it is the tail end Editor of the holiday season as I write this, displays in Jeff Sanfaçon the supermarket (and the deadline for this [email protected] column) remind me that February is just around the corner. Here then, are the Valentines that I Proofreader would send to ATA folks, since they form the Sandra Burns Thomson heart of the Association. Art Directors A quick note of appreciation would go out to Ellen Banker every single ATA member, past and present, for making the Association the umbrella organization Amy Peloff in this country for interpreters, translators, termi- Advertising nologists, academics, trainers, and those who find Caron Mason, CAE the translating and interpreting profession so inter- [email protected] esting that they just want to be a part of it. +1-703-683-6100, ext. 3003 A doily heart would go to each of our Fax: +1-703-683-6122 chapter leaders and volunteers, who, while striving to make their corner of the world a bit better, are also reaching the next Membership and generation of colleagues and providing opportunities to grow into leadership roles. General Information If you’re not already a member of your local organization, I can only say you’re Lauren Mendell missing out. You may find amazing local talent and personal connections there (and [email protected] if you don’t, here is your chance to increase your visibility and make it happen). I would send a passel of velvet hearts with glitter to the folks working to make divi- Executive Director sions “where it’s at” in the Association, from lining up compelling speakers for the con- Walter Bacak, CAE ference to planning lively gatherings, moderating online lists, and conjuring newsletters [email protected] and blogs. If you haven’t checked out these “homes within a home,” I strongly suggest you sign up today—there is no cost to members and the value returned is high. The ATA Chronicle (ISSN 1078-6457) is To our committee chairs and members, I would overnight heart-shaped boxes of published monthly, except bi-monthly in chocolates (soft centers and cordial cherries) with big red ribbons. These are the folks November/December, by the American Translators Association, 225 Reinekers who roll up their sleeves and delve into the nitty-gritty details that help mature the Lane, Suite 590, Alexandria, VA 22314 Association in a considered manner. The talent, dedication, and effort put forth by these USA. Periodicals postage paid at folks always leaves me in awe. There is certainly no shortage of work to be done, so if Alexandria, Virginia, and additional you’re tempted or even mildly interested, I urge you to reach out and lend a hand. mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send A vase of long-stemmed red roses would go to ATA Executive Director Walter address changes to The ATA Chronicle, 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 590, Bacak and our crack Headquarters staff. These folks are the ones who make it Alexandria, VA 22314 USA. happen when we ask, “can it be done?” all while juggling phones and e-mail with The American Translators Association member requests, websites, social media channels, blogs and publications, as well (ATA) was established in 1959 as a not- as all of the pieces that make for a seamless conference experience. for-profit professional society to foster and And finally, singing telegrams would be sent to ATA Board members (and support the professional development of translators and interpreters and to former Board members who laid the foundation) who wrestle with big issues promote the translation and interpreting together, and who endure my cajoling and reminders to stay on topic and not bite professions. The subscription rate for a off more than we can chew. For every project brought to fruition, there are a dozen member is $49 (included in the dues they would like to take on, and not enough hours in a day. payment). The U.S. subscription rate for a And of course, I would send kisses and hugs to all those family members and nonmember is $65. Subscribers in Canada and Mexico add $25; all other friends who endure the absence and support the efforts of all these folks. Because I non-U.S. subscribers add $45. Single can’t quite manage this particular task in person, I’ll have to call on you all to pass copies are available for $7 per issue. on these Valentines to them. ©2015 American Translators Association

Reprint Permission: Requests for permission to reprint articles should be sent to the editor of The ATA Chronicle at [email protected]. February 2015 CONTENTS Volume XLIV Number 2 A Publication of the American Translators How Does the ATA Nomination Association 10 Process Work? By the ATA Nominating and Leadership Development Committee Why is ATA interested in leadership development for its Board and potential future candidates?

Anatomy of an ATA Conference 14 By Jennifer Guernsey An interview with David Rumsey, ATA president-elect and conference organizer.

Reaching Out to the Advanced Placement Classroom: 17 ATA’s School Outreach In Action By Birgit Vosseler-Brehmer This year’s ATA School Outreach Award went to Jenny Stillo, a Spanish interpreter and translator based in Crested Butte, Colorado. Jenny’s winning picture highlighted her May School Outreach presentation to an advanced placement Spanish class at Crested Butte Community School. February Term Extraction: 10,000 Term 2015 19 Candidates—Now What? By Barbara Inge Karsch Extracting terms is easy. Identifying the right terms and names from a long list is not. Here are 10 criteria for project managers preparing a translation project. COLUMNS 2 From the President 6 From the President-Elect 7 From the Treasurer Interview with a Game Localizer 8 From the Executive Director 23 By Marta Chereshnovska Alain Dellepiane discusses what it takes to make it in the exciting field of game localization. DEPARTMENTS

25 Blog Trekker 26 The Entrepreneurial Linguist 27 Interpreters Forum 28 Dictionary Review 31 Certification Exams 31 New Certified Members 32 The Translation Inquirer American Translators Association 34 Humor and Translation The Voice of Interpreters and Translators Our Authors February 2015

Marta Chereshnovska is a translation and localiza- Barbara Inge Karsch is the chair of ATA’s tion specialist (English>Ukrainian, English>Russian). She Terminology Committee. She is the owner of BIK has seven years of translation, localization, and subti- Terminology, a terminology consultancy and training tling experience. She has worked on information tech- company. As a consultant and trainer, she works with nology, telecommunications, marketing translation, and companies and organizations on terminology training, localization projects (software, hardware, web, mobile, terminology development, and the implementation of and games). You can find her blog, Translation and l10n terminology management systems. She draws on her 14 for dummies, at http://transl10n.tumblr.com, or follow years of experience as an in-house terminologist for J.D. her on Twitter @Martav88. Contact: Edwards and Microsoft. She also teaches at New York martavelychko @gmail.com. University. As U.S. delegate to ISO Technical Committee 37 for Terminology and Other Language and Content Jennifer Guernsey is a Russian>English translator Resources, she is leading the revision of ISO 12616 specializing in medicine and pharmaceuticals. She has a (Translation-Oriented Terminography). Contact: degree in Russian language and literature from the bikterminology@ gmail.com. University of Michigan. She began her career by trans- lating technical monographs and patents while working Birgit Vosseler-Brehmer, an ATA-certified Russian-related “day jobs” involving Soviet refugee pro- English<>German freelance translator based in Germany, cessing and, later, biological defense. After more than specializes in technical and business management transla- 25 years in the translation field, her specialization has tion. She is a member of ATA’s School Outreach Program. narrowed to medical and pharmaceutical translation. Contact: [email protected]. She also assists life scientists at area universities with editing and grant proposal preparation. Contact: [email protected].

Send a Advertising Complimentary Copy Directory

February 2015 Volume XLIV If you enjoyed reading this issue Number 2 A Publication of the The Voice of Interpreters and Translators Central Intelligence Agency American of The ATA Chronicle and think a Translators ssociation 5 www.cia.gov A colleague or organization would The ATA CHRONICLE enjoy it too, we will send a 31 Landmark Audio Technologies free copy. www.LandmarkFm.com Simply e-mail the recipient’s name and address to National Security Agency ATA Headquarters— 9 www.nsa.gov [email protected]—and we will send the magazine with SDL a note indicating that the 36 ATA’s Nominating www.languagecloud.sdl.com/translators Process copy is being sent with your ATA’s School Outreach compliments. Help spread the Term Extraction University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Game Localization word about ATA! 33 https://jobs.illinois.edu

4 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 In the National Clandestine Service, YOUR MISSION: TR ANSLATION your foreign language skills can keep America safe. IN DEFENSE OF THE NATION. It’s more than just translating. It’s about interpreting nuances and conveying cultural insights for meaningful intelligence BECOME AN NCS acquisition. It’s about making a difference, 24/7.

LANGUAGE OFFICER. Applicants must have US citizenship and the ability to successfully complete medical examinations and security procedures, including a polygraph interview. An equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workforce.

THE WORK OF A NATION. For additional information and to apply, visit: THE CENTER OF INTELLIGENCE. www.cia.gov From the President-Elect David Rumsey [email protected] Sessions: The Soul of ATA’s Annual Conference

What a difference a year The conference sessions are the soul and deliberative. There is also a free makes. Last year at this time a polar of ATA’s Annual Conference. There webinar available for writing a suc- vortex had descended over the city of are few translator and interpreter con- cessful proposal at www.atanet.org/ Chicago as the planning team met at ferences in the world that offer the webinars/ataWebinar133_proposals. the conference hotel for the site visit. number, variety, and quality of sessions php. This time, I was in sunny Miami that are available at ATA’s Annual However, the heart of every ATA meeting with the hotel team at the Conference. The top-notch educational conference is the people: presenters Miami Hyatt Regency for a planning sessions include a select mix of invited and attendees alike relish the oppor- session for the upcoming 56th ATA speakers from around the globe as well tunity to renew old relationships and Annual Conference in Miami, as colleagues who generously share build new ones. There are tremen- November 4-7, 2015. their experience and expertise. With dous learning opportunities that can The prospects for the upcoming over 18 different session tracks (e.g., take place in the hallways, restau- conference appear to be sunny indeed. particular languages and specializa- rants, bars, and meeting spaces at the The beautiful hotel is bright and tions, as well as general tracks aimed conference hotel. ATA’s Annual inviting with newly renovated guest at freelancers, agency owners, and edu- Conference is one of the few places rooms and excellent conference cators), there is something for all on earth where you can share your facilities for the many sessions to stakeholders in the translation and joys and frustrations about the trans- be offered. Last year’s conference in interpreting industry. The sessions are lation and interpreting industry with Chicago proved to be highly suc- designed to provide practical informa- people who actually understand what cessful, which brought forth a plethora tion and skills that translators and inter- you are talking about. Perhaps that is of over 400 intriguing session pro- preters can use in their businesses. why many attendees refer to the con- posals—and the resulting challenge of There is a tremendous wealth of ference as a “family reunion” that choosing which ones to schedule into knowledge from among our own col- members return to year after year. the 180 slots available. The Miami leagues. Members can submit their So be sure to mark your calendars conference in November is sure to own session proposals easily via for November 4-7, 2015. When the attract a wide variety of attendees ATA’s website. Session proposals are cold autumn winds start to descend, from around the country as well as being accepted until March 2, 2015. pack your bags and bring your sun- Central and South America. With a That may seem awfully far in advance glasses and share the sunshine and high number of attendees comes a of the conference, but the process of spotlight with your collegial “family” high number of session proposals. selecting sessions and speakers is long in Miami. See you there! n Call for Session Proposals ATA’s 56th Annual Conference November 4–7, 2015 • Miami • Florida Submissions are invited from all areas of translation and interpreting, including finance, law, medicine, literature, science and technology, education and training, terminology, independent contracting, and business management. Sessions may be language- specific or general. You do not need to be an ATA member to submit a proposal. If you know someone who would make a great presentation, please encourage them to submit today! Don’t miss this opportunity to share your knowledge with colleagues. Please complete the online session proposal form today: www.atanet.org/events/proposal.php. Deadline: March 2, 2015

6 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 From the Treasurer Ted R. Wozniak [email protected] Abbreviated Report on the 2013-2014 Fiscal Year

(The following offers a snapshot of a more comprehensive Conference revenue declined year- mutual funds. The total value of the report, which will be published in the March issue.1) on-year as expected, since that rev- investment account as of June 30, enue is highly dependent on the par- 2014 was $531.8k ($486.6k in 2013). Our overall financial ticular location. As I reported at ATA’s Annual performance in FY2013-14 (fiscal Expenses for our major programs Conference in Chicago, while our year from July 1, 2013 through June were mixed, with some posting sig- finances are not currently in the 30, 2014) was not entirely satisfact- nificant declines. For example, con- shape we would like, they are ory, as we ended the year with a net ference expenses were down 7% in improving and should continue to “operating loss” (change in net assets line with expectations, while others improve over the next few years. As before gains/losses on investments) such as certification and The ATA treasurer, I will continue to monitor of almost $33k. This loss was com- Chronicle saw only minor reductions our financial development, report to posed of a net loss of $18k for the of 1% each. Total expenses for pro- the Board, and make recommenda- American Foundation for Translation gram services fell by 2% to $1.93m. tions for improving and enhancing and Interpretation (AFTI) due to the Expenses for support services our financial health. required write-off of AFTI’s Julia were also mixed, with general and Segall-Derfler Scholarship, as well as administrative expenses up and on tar- Note a net “operating loss” for ATA of get at $734k, while expenses for 1. The financial figures cited are $15k. Fortunately, a net gain on officers and directors, Board meetings, from the draft audit report on the investments (both realized/unreal- and other governance expenses FY2013-14 consolidated financial ized) of $34k allowed us to end the declined to $66k. statements, which include the fiscal year at just over breakeven Our total current assets as of June results for the American Foun- with $132 in consolidated net 30, 2014 were $437k, mostly cash and dation for Translation and income. Excluding the AFTI loss, cash equivalents of $370k and prepaid Interpretation (AFTI). All figures ATA ended the fiscal year with a expenses of $58k. The increase over have been rounded to the nearest stand-alone net gain of $18k. FY 2013 was due to strict and prudent whole number, which can result in On a more pleasing note, the cash management, which also allowed rounding differences. For legi- positive net result for the FY is now ATA to get through the traditionally bility reasons, all references to our second in a row, reversing the cash-lean summer months without hav- fiscal years use the calendar year loss trend we experienced from 2009 ing to withdraw cash from our money in which the fiscal year ended: through 2012. Our deficit in net market account. e.g., FY2014 means FY2013-2014 assets has now been reduced to In addition to the increase in our (July 1, 2013 through June 30, $199k. However, this is below the cash account of $132k, an increase in 2014). n goal of eliminating the deficit by the the value of our long-term invest- end of FY2016. ment account also contributed to the Total revenue was $2.69m, pri- increase in total assets to $972k. marily from dues of $1.77m, confer- The increase in total assets was ence revenue of $584k, and certifica- mostly offset by a rise in deferred tion revenue of $190k. Dues revenue revenues (mostly unearned dues rev- Upcoming increased as a result of the increase enue) of $165k, with total liabilities in annual dues, which was somewhat ending the year at $1,170k, leaving a June 1-7, 2015 offset by the 3% decline in individual year-end net deficit of just under Middlebury Bread Loaf members to 9,768 as of June 30, 2014. $199k. Translators Conference Our portfolio continues to be Revenue for The ATA Chronicle fell Ripton, VT invested conservatively and is divid- sharply by 35% due to the loss of www.middlebury.edu/blwc/bltc postage revenue from overseas mem- ed more or less equally into cash, bers who opted for the e-Chronicle. equity mutual funds, and income

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 7 From the Executive Director Walter Bacak, CAE [email protected]

Staff Changes and Calls for …

was interested in trying something new Here are four calls for participation. Nearly 11,000 members and readily accepted the opportunity to and the work of hundreds of volunteers expand her experience. Caron has been Mentoring: The Mentoring are supported by ATA’s dedicated and responsible for ATA’s public relations, Committee is looking for mentees knowledgeable staff of 11. The group exhibit/sponsorship/advertising sales and mentors for the Class of 2015. If works well together, so when an and administration, and honors and you are looking to grow your skills employee leaves, in addition to looking awards. She will continue to manage and business acumen, then this is the at a candidate’s experience and skills, the Honors and Awards Program. program for you. Whether you are a we also consider how well that indi- relative newcomer or a seasoned vet- vidual will fit in with the team. Lauren Mendell: Lauren, our mem- eran, please consider this opportunity. Of course, whenever there is a bership relations manager, has an Past participants rave about the posi- change in personnel, there is also an excellent phone personality that is tive outcomes from being a part of opportunity to analyze overall effi- well-suited to exhibit/sponsorship/ the program. To learn how to partici- ciency and effectiveness. Here are advertising sales and administration. pate, please go to www.atanet.org/ some recent changes that I am confi- She will assume these responsibilities, careers/mentoring.php. dent will be a positive step for the in addition to her primary job of Association. fielding calls and e-mail from the Nominations: The Nominating and membership and the general public. Leadership Development Committee Jon Mendoza: Jon, who was the is currently seeking nominations for Certification Program manager, had Cathy Taguding: To free up some candidates for this year’s election. To been with ATA for nine years. Upon of Lauren’s time, Cathy, who handles find out how you can make a nomina- the recent completion of his master’s data input tasks such as membership tion or put yourself forward as a pos- degree in film and television produc- renewals and conference registrations, sible candidate, please go to tion, he left ATA last month to pursue will work with Lauren to provide addi- www.atanet.org/elections.php. his dreams. Good luck, Jon! tional coverage of phone calls and e-mail. This backup coverage will be a Conference Proposals: Share your Caron Mason, CAE: Following good addition to our member support expertise with your colleagues at ATA’s Jon’s departure and a review of our system. 56th Annual Conference in Miami, operations, it was clear that Caron, Florida, November 4-7, 2015. Giving a ATA’s public relations and marketing Calls for ... presentation is a great way to network manager, had the right skills for admin- Make this the year to become and gain recognition in the translation istering the Certification Program. She more involved in your Association! and interpreting communities. To submit a proposal, please go to www.atanet.org/events/proposal.php.

Honors and Awards: ATA and the American Foundation for Translation Be Sure to Renew and Interpretation offer a variety of awards. Some provide monetary Membership renewals have been mailed. prizes, others provide a conference It’s easy to renew online, if you prefer. registration, but they all spotlight the recipients. To review the awards and Just go to www.atanet.org/renew. consider which colleagues deserve Thank you for your support and member- to be acknowledged, please go to ship in 2014. We look forward to serving www.atanet.org/aboutus/honors you in 2015!. andawards.php. n

8 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 CAREERSCAREERS AT THE N ATIONALTIONAL S ECURITYCCURITY A GENCYGENC

6,900 Languages Millions of Signals One Mission

The technology we build can collect signals from foreign adversaries, but protecting the nation requires a human understanding of nuance, context, cultural overtones and dialect that only you, a language specialist, can provide. The product of this combination of technology and your expertise will provide the most complete and accurate intelligence to U.S. policy makers, military commanders and other members of the Intelligence Community to help the nation stay a step ahead of foreign threats. Explore career opportunities at NSA and see how your language proficiency can have a direct impact on national security.

KNOWINGMATTERS

Q Q  Q Q Q Q Q  Q Q www.NSA.gov/Careers

WHERE INTELLIGENCE GOES TO WORK®

How Does the ATA Nomination Process Work? By the ATA Nominating and Leadership Development Committee Who creates that slate of can- didates that we see every year? How Leadership training for individuals would assist in assimilating new does the nomination process work? May I nominate myself? What are Board members, succession planning, developing high potentials, the criteria used to decide who should run? This article is an attempt navigating organizational culture, as well as removing “blind spots.” to shed light on a process that is unknown to much of ATA’s member- ship. We also want to describe here some changes made recently, as well Board members, succession planning, be passed on to future candidates. as some new changes for this year. developing high potentials, navi- Also during the conference, com- The committee we are talking gating organizational culture, and mittee members approach people we about used to be called simply the removing “blind spots.” have contacted previously as poten- Nominating Committee. A bylaws Leadership training for the Board tial future nominees to see if they amendment in 2009 changed it to would work to cultivate team align- have any questions or concerns about the Nominating and Leadership ment and encourage the integration the process. Development Committee. As the of and adaptation to changing cul- The committee gets together early name implies, the change expanded tures. It would also work to build in the year to discuss the slate for the the committee’s charge to help pro- trust and awareness among the Board upcoming elections. In preparation duce a pipeline of future leaders. to facilitate consensus, collaboration, for the meeting we contact com- The Nominating and Leadership and accountability. mittee chairs, division administrators, Development Committee always con- A leadership development program chapter and affiliated group presi- sists of five people, per ATA bylaws should improve leadership competen- dents, Board members, and others to (Article VII, Section 2d). These five cies, such as improved engagement solicit nominations and recommenda- people are appointed at the winter and more focused and increased tions. Board meeting to serve during the Board productivity. In summary, lead- We maintain a database of people following year. The committee mem- ership training is designed to help who have been recommended, along bers for 2015 are: Dorothee Racette leaders discover more effective and with associated information. That (chair), Tony Guerra, Susanne van productive ways to achieve personal includes their profession (e.g., inter- Eyl, Connie Prener, and Karen and professional goals, create align- preter, translator, educator, company Tkaczyk. The committee continually ment with ATA’s organizational cul- owner, or employee), language pairs, identifies people, helps them find ture, and promote strategic objectives. and contributions to ATA and the the right volunteer spot within the ATA Board members would have an translating/interpreting professions. Association, keeps an eye on the opportunity to enhance their existing We discuss the individuals who are quality of the work they are doing skills and resources and to develop brought to our attention. We also in their current role, and finds out creative and innovative solutions to examine the information provided by whether they are interested in run- address effectively the challenges of those who nominate candidates. The ning the following year. representing the interests of ATA and committee has developed a list of cri- its membership. teria an ideal candidate should meet. Leadership Development We will take a first step in this For instance, to cite just a few of Why is ATA interested in leader- direction by holding an invitation- them, we are looking for people who ship development for its Board and only Leadership Development train- demonstrate leadership, of whom potential future candidates? While ing session at ATA’s 56th Annual others speak highly, who are articu- historically there has been a wealth Conference in Miami (November late, and who are team-oriented. of talent on the Board from the mem- 4-7, 2015). Then we ask questions like: bership that has sustained and culti- vated the vibrant organization that it The Process • How was this person active within is today, ATA recognizes that its con- The Nominating and Leadership ATA in the past? tinued effectiveness and future rele- Development Committee is active vance depend on the strength and throughout the year. Our activities • What talents and preferences were clear vision of its leadership. There- for the new election cycle begin evident during that activity? fore, plans call for expanding the during the Annual Conference. After committee’s activities in the area of the election, the committee holds a • What personal attributes would training. follow-up meeting to discuss the can- make her or him a good candidate Leadership training for individuals didates’ presentations, as well as and a good director or officer? would assist in assimilating new what we learned from them that can In order to present a balanced

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 11 How Does the ATA Nomination Process Work? Continued slate to the membership, we aim to include candidates from all the var- ious areas of our profession. We In order to present a balanced slate to the membership, we aim to make an effort to ensure that each is represented in a way that reflects include candidates from all the various areas of our profession. reality. To cite an example, if the term of a director who is an inter- preter is about to expire, we will try to put a candidate who is also an significantly this year. Some of the • In your view, which perspectives interpreter on the slate for that year. questions listed on the old Nominating or points of view should be repre- Another consideration is gender. Form were no longer relevant. In addi- sented on the Board? Since a majority of ATA members are tion, some questions were appropriate female, if four women were leaving only for nominating other people, • What particular strengths does this the Board in a given year, it would while other items pertained to mem- person have that are necessary for be odd to have a slate composed bers who were nominating themselves. the officer position for which you entirely of men. Other less crucial In response, the committee broke are nominating him or her? factors include language pair and up the Nominating Form into one geography. We are not terribly wor- appropriate for self-nominations and • How has the candidate demon- ried about French translators or resi- one for people being nominated by strated commitment to the transla- dents of New England taking over others. We also felt that there was a tion and interpreting professions? ATA, but we would consider the place for a tailored set of questions for information to see if a proposed slate those nominating or being nominated • Which areas of ATA activity would be adding diversity. for officer positions (secretary, treas- would you hope to become Once we have created a list of urer, and president-elect). With this in involved in? potential nominees, we begin our mind, we have created four separate deliberations. Typical of the ques- forms, each with a matching job • How do you feel your skills and tions we raise about each of the can- description for reference: abilities match the “job descrip- didates are the following: tion” for your role? • Self-nomination for Director • What would this person wish to Conclusion accomplish if elected? • Self-nomination for Officer We are confident that these efforts to cultivate tomorrow’s leaders will • Is this person sufficiently known • Nomination for Director ensure a strong, vibrant Association. to have a chance of being elected? If you have any suggestions for the • Nomination for Officer nomination process or for the devel- • How would this person fit into the opment of the Association’s leader- existing Board? Another minor change is that the ship, please send them to forms can now be completed and [email protected]. Once the committee feels that the submitted online. The nomination period for 2015 is slate is complete, the nominees are Here are examples of questions on now open. You can find nomination contacted and informed that we sup- the new forms: forms at www.atanet.org/elections. port their candidacy. Once the final- php. The deadline is March 1, 2015. ized slate is reported to the Board, • Which areas of translation and We hope that the process is now the committee is available to the can- interpreting activity are you pas- clear and look forward to receiving didates for fact-checking written sionate about? many great nominations this year. n statements and draft speeches. We also have guidelines available to pre- • What strengths would you bring pare for the actual candidate presen- to ATA’s Board of Directors? tations at the Annual Conference, but it is up to the candidates to devise a way to present themselves in the best light possible. Become an ATA Voting Member: The qualification process is free and online! Nominating Forms Apply for Active www.atanet.org/membership/ As part of the committee’s contin- Membership Review memb_review_online.php uous review process, the actual nomi- nating application was revised

12 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Make Your ATA Membership Count

Opportunity. Market your services worldwide in ATA's online Directory of Translation and Interpreting Services.

Networking. Connect with experienced translators, interpreters, and agencies who share your interests and issues.

Knowledge. Expand your skills with professional opportunities online and throughout the U.S.

Information. Get news and know-how, from terminology to software to business practices … and more.

Services. Take advantage of members-only discounted business services, including small business and professional liability insurance plans.

Visibility. Support an advocacy working for greater public awareness of the translation and interpreting professions.

For detailed information, visit www.atanet.org/aboutus/overview_ata.php

It’s Time To Renew! From membership in any or all of ATA’s 18 divisions to discounted business services, ATA gives you the strategic edge that benefits your bottom line. Don’t miss a single day of benefits—renew today and let ATA continue to be your most important professional resource. It’s simple:

Login to Renew Online Renew by Fax www.atanet.org/renew Fax the ATA Membership Renewal form with your payment to: Renew by Mail +1-703-683-6122 Mail the ATA Membership Renewal form with your payment to: Renew by PayPal www.atanet.org/paypal.php for instructions American Translators Association Membership Renewal 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 590 Questions? Need More Information? Alexandria, VA 22314 USA Contact: Lauren Mendell ATA Member Relations Manager Phone: +1-703-683-6100, ext. 3001 E-mail: [email protected]

Thank you for your past support and for renewing for 2015. Anatomy of an ATA Conference By Jennifer Guernsey

After hearing colleagues raise interesting questions regarding ATA’s Annual Conference, I decided it might be helpful to gather and publish information regarding how decisions are made con- cerning the selection of the conference venue and sessions. David Rumsey, ATA president-elect and conference organizer, kindly agreed to answer my myriad ques- tions.

Conference Site Selection How do we identify and select a conference site? Conference locations are typically David Rumsey selected four to five years in advance. We generally have one to two years for ATA’s Board to evaluate potential loca- tions and then select one of them as the host venue for the conference. There are several factors that go into selecting a conference site. ATA typically tries to rotate the conference between the East Coast, central U.S., and the West Coast so that the conference will be rela- tively close to all of the membership at some point. We work with a conference specialist, Experient, to help us identify cities and hotels that can meet our needs. Since it is difficult for a single associa- tion to negotiate directly with the confer- ence hotels, Experient helps us in the negotiation process by working directly with the hotel. Experient looks for locations based on our cycle and then provides a list of prospective hotels. The Board discusses the options and arranges to visit one of the hotels in conjunction with one of the Board meetings. The prospective hotels provide free or discounted accommoda- Attendees at ATA’s 55th Annual Conference tions and/or meals for us while we are having the Board meeting and checking out the hotel, which saves the Associ- ation money on food and lodging costs. Of the four Board meetings per year, one or two of them are held in potential conference locations. Important The biggest hurdle is finding a hotel that can accommodate all of the sessions. The room rate is always a Conference Links major factor. ATA is in a challenging position because our group is too small for a convention center and ATA Conference Page Exhibitor Information often too large for many hotels. The (Updated as details become available) hotel needs to provide 15-20 meeting www.atanet.org/conf/2015/ rooms of various sizes. It also needs www.atanet.org/conf/2015 exhibiting.htm to have a venue for the exhibitors, a location for the certification exam sit- tings, and large areas for the meeting of all members, the closing dance, How to Write a Winning ATA Submit a Conference general mingling, etc. Providing Conference Proposal Session Proposal meeting space for 175+ sessions of (Free Webinar) varying size can be very difficult for www.atanet.org/events/ many hotels and locations. www.atanet.org/webinars/ataWebinar proposal.php In addition to having a conference 133_proposals.php hotel that will work for us, the host city needs to have easy flight connec- tions. We also look for a host city that has a local ATA chapter to provide logistical support. Finally, we look for cities that have a lot of food and entertainment options and are attrac- tive destinations for the membership. are not easily accessible by air and, mula (e.g., percent of profit per unoc- more importantly, the hotels in those cupied reserved room). The penalties ATA Annual Conferences are gener- locations are often unable to provide can vary depending on the hotel. ally held in large, relatively expen- the meeting space and facilities we sive cities: New York, Los Angeles, need. Portland, Oregon, comes to Have we considered holding the San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, etc. mind as one of the places that was conference in a venue that is not Have we considered holding confer- recently considered but did not have a hotel? ences in cities with potentially lower a hotel that could meet our needs. We have discussed holding the hotel costs, such as Cleveland, conference in other venues, including Pittsburgh, Omaha, or Memphis? Can you describe the financial convention centers and universities. First, we do consider all types of arrangements we make with the We are typically too small for a con- potential locations for conferences. The hotels? What do we pay for specifi- vention center. In order to make a larger cities you mention are relatively cally, and what is included as part conference in a convention center rare. In the past 15 years, we have only of an overall package? affordable, attendance needs to be in held the conference in New York City, We typically negotiate a deal the range of 5,000+ attendees. A Chicago, and Los Angeles once. We through our representative at good conference for us includes have not been in Miami since 1985. Experient, where the hotel will pro- roughly half that many attendees. At However, we have found that larger, vide the meeting space, seating, etc., a convention center, we would be more popular locations generally free of charge in exchange for ATA responsible for paying for all of the attract more attendees. And greater filling a minimum number of rooms space as well as all of the chairs, attendance often means more session (i.e., the “room block”). We pay for tables, podiums, lighting, and labor proposals from which to choose. We pretty much everything else. ATA costs that a conference hotel typi- have held the conference in many less covers all of the audiovisual equipment cally covers. The cost for the confer- costly cities in the past (e.g., Nashville, and the food and beverages during the ence registration fees would St. Louis, Phoenix, and San Antonio), meals and coffee breaks. We pay for skyrocket. People would also be and we have typically had lower atten- the labor costs associated with the responsible for arranging their own dance. audiovisual equipment, the registration accommodations, which would not Smaller cities, like the ones you area, etc. If we do not fill our room necessarily provide any cost savings mention, also have several compli- block, we can be charged an attrition or might be much farther away from cating issues with them. They often fee, which is based on a negotiated for- the convention center. There ·

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 15 Anatomy of an ATA Conference Continued would also be no focal point for the is a nerve-wracking exercise! If I am not mistaken, distinguished after-hours activities and socializing. speakers used to receive full cov- Hosting at universities has been Do you have a specific number of erage of their travel plus a small discussed, but most universities and sessions allocated to each division honorarium. Why was this changed? colleges are in session when we host or subject area? The old system was very difficult our conference. University settings are No, not necessarily. Our primary to manage financially. Speakers had also relatively inflexible in terms of concern is to offer good sessions. We their airfare covered, but there was providing the right mix of large and do not necessarily accept a poor ses- no cap on the cost of the ticket (and small spaces for 175+ sessions and sion just because a track does not therefore no incentive to look for other activities. Attendees might have have anything in it. It is better to cheaper tickets), and speakers often to walk to different buildings to attend have no sessions in a particular would not request compensation until sessions. Arranging food and bever- track/division slot than to accept a well after the conference, which ages for 2,000 attendees in those poor session. It reflects poorly on made bookkeeping difficult. With venues would be very difficult as the division and the Association. distinguished speakers coming from well. Hotel accommodations might be Accepting a poor session might also over 25 divisions and committees, it quite a distance from the university, mean a good session gets rejected. became unsustainable. A new system and again, there would be no focal was implemented where distin- point for the after-hours activities. Are different considerations guished speakers are offered a con- applied to the inclusion or exclu- ference fee waiver, one to four nights Selection of Conference Sessions sion of a preconference seminar? in the conference hotel, plus an hon- What considerations determine There are slightly different con- orarium to help cover the cost of air- whether a particular session is siderations for the preconference fare or other incidentals based on included or excluded from the con- seminars since attendees are paying their location and the number of ses- ference lineup? considerable fees to attend them. The sions they offer. The idea is not to Each proposed session is reviewed quality of the speaker is often very have distinguished speakers make by the leadership of a related division important. The topic may be very money off the conference, but to or committee and by the conference interesting, but if the speaker cannot share their expertise as professional organizer and ATA Headquarters staff. present the material properly, the ses- colleagues. The division leadership provides feed- sion may not be well received. As for back as to whether the session would all of the conference sessions and Presumably there is a limited pool be of interest. Headquarters provides seminars, we typically look for ses- of money available to fund distin- feedback on the quality of the speaker sions that have a clear focus and guished speakers. If the number of based on past evaluations. The confer- practical benefit to the attendees; speaker requests exceeds the avail- ence organizer makes the final decision where people feel that they gained a able funds, how do you determine to either accept, reject, or place a ses- particular skill or information. We which speakers to fund and which sion on hold. like the preconference seminars to be to deny? relatively hands-on. We generally budget for at least About how many sessions were one distinguished speaker in each proposed for the Chicago confer- Selection and Funding of division. However, we do not always ence, and how many session slots Distinguished Speakers accept the proposal from the sug- did we have available? How is funding allocated for distin- gested distinguished speaker, not for We had over 400 session pro- guished speakers? financial reasons, but usually because posals and fewer than 180 slots. This There is a set structure for the dis- their proposed session is not particu- meant that more than half of the ses- tinguished speakers in terms of cov- larly strong or relevant. sions had to be rejected. It was a ering registration, hotel, and travel. It very difficult selection process. is proportional to the amount of time Thanks for your input. Any final the speaker is presenting at the con- thoughts? When you have to decide between ference. Typically, we ask distin- As you can see, there is a lot of sessions that offer both good guished speakers to present two work in making a successful confer- topics and good speakers, how do one-hour sessions or one three-hour ence. Check out my column this you choose? preconference seminar. The hono- month (page 6) and in future issues Well, if the topic is good and the raria that are provided are intended to for details about the upcoming con- speaker is good, the decision is easy— help defray the costs of attending the ference in Miami, November 4-7, accept the proposal! But then if all of session but may not necessarily cover 2015, and how to submit a proposal. the slots are taken, we try to vary the all of the speaker’s expenses. See you in Miami! n speakers and topics as best we can. It

16 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Reaching Out to the Advanced Placement Classroom: ATA’s School Outreach In Action By Birgit Vosseler-Brehmer

This year’s ATA School Outreach Award went to Jenny Stillo, Jenny is proud to be a role model for the students and continues to a Spanish interpreter and translator based in Crested Butte, Colorado. pass on the message that foreign languages not only broaden their Jenny’s winning photo highlighted horizons, but are also important for future jobs as well. her May School Outreach presenta- tion to an advanced placement Spanish class at Crested Butte Community School. ager had translated the hotel’s rules poor job, interpreting everything lit- Keeping It Active regarding cell phones using Google erally, the two skiers never met. For In the first part of her presenta- Translate. As a result of this exercise, Jenny, this exercise served to get the tion, Jenny talked about translation the students learned that Google message across that translating and and interpreting and explained that Translate does not deliver adequate interpreting is all about bridging the both careers require not just bilingual translation results. linguistic and cultural gap and giving language skills but adequate training. In another exercise, Jenny had two a voice to those who do not speak the She highlighted the importance of students pretend to be skiers—one language of the culture in which they foreign languages for future jobs. from Mexico, one from Crested live. This is something Jenny feels To demonstrate her point, she pre- Butte—who wanted to ski together. very passionate about. pared various interactive activities for The skiers did not speak the same The last part of Jenny’s visit was the students. In a translation exercise, language, so they enlisted a passerby, pure fun for the students. Two teams she reenacted a real-life situation she Jenny, to interpret for them so they of three students competed against had encountered a few weeks earlier could set a time and place to meet. each other in a game of Family in a hotel where a housekeeping man- However, since Jenny did such a Feud, where they had to explain ·

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 17 Reaching Out to the Advanced Placement Classroom: ATA’s School Outreach In Action Continued idiomatic expressions. To motivate the students, Jenny promised a prize to the winning team: a fashion cal- endar from Honduras. “The students loved this game,” Jenny reports.

Community Connections Jenny, a native Honduran, is a fre- quent visitor to Crested Butte Com- munity School. The Spanish teacher invites her on a regular basis to talk to the advanced placement Spanish class so that the students get the opportunity to listen to a native Spanish speaker. However, this was the first time that Jenny talked about translation and interpreting. The students were very excited to learn that Jenny had won ATA’s School Outreach Contest. Although none of them are currently planning a career in translation or interpreting, several of the students have con- tinued to study Spanish. Jenny is Jenny believes it is important to reach out to local youth and talk about our profession. proud to be a role model for the stu- dents and continues to pass on the message that foreign languages not Gunnison County. As the Hispanic will receive free registration to ATA’s only broaden their horizons, but are population grows in the area, so does 56th Annual Conference in Miami, also important for future jobs as well. the demand for her interpreting Florida, November 4-7, 2015. For services. She taught Spanish at the more information, visit www.atanet. Promoting Professionalism Crested Butte Ski and Snowboard org/ata_school/school_outreach_ Jenny was born in San Pedro Sula, Academy and has translated for the contest.php. Honduras, and grew up in Teguci- Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Her galpa, where she attended the specialization is tightly connected Tell us your story! Please share your American School of Tegucigalpa. with the mountain area and ski past and present School Outreach She came to the U.S. to pursue a resort: sports and recreation, travel experiences with us! Whether you degree in business administration. and tourism, and business and mar- decide to enter the contest or not, She soon became a part of the keting. Jenny hopes to expand her ATA’s School Outreach team would Crested Butte community by joining translation business and to work love to hear from you. Please contact in what everybody does in Crested more with agencies. Meghan McCallum at meghanray Butte: skiing, biking, hiking, and [email protected] with a descrip- enjoying the great outdoors. Planting the Seeds Early tion of when and where you presented As one of the few educated bilin- Jenny’s advice to fellow transla- and let us know about your memorable gual people in the community, Jenny tors and interpreters: reach out to School Outreach experience. n was asked to translate and interpret your local youth and talk about our for this popular winter sports resort profession. With the demand for town before actually having formal professional language services 2014–2015 schooling in it. She soon realized, increasing, informing students about ATA School Outreach Contest however, that she needed profes- this fascinating career option is sional training and, following two becoming more and more important. Visit ATA’s School Outreach years of graduate work, earned a “We need to plant the seeds early!” Resource Center at translation certificate from Arizona Jenny says. www.atanet.org/ata_school/ State University. school_outreach_contest.php Jenny now interprets and trans- Join the School Outreach Effort and click on Presentation lates for various medical clinics, The 2014-2015 School Outreach Resource Materials. health centers, schools, and hotels in Contest is now open! The winner

18 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Term Extraction: 10,000 Term Candidates— Now What? By Barbara Inge Karsch

Identifying terms and names and researching their concepts should not be the responsibility of just free- Freelancers may not recognize an important new concept in a long lance translators. True, they must do it if no one else has, but freelancers are list of term candidates because they may not have enough actually not always in the best position product knowledge. to research terminology thoroughly. In a large translation project, free- lancers may be part of a team of translators. If each team member in a semi-automated fashion—it tistical extraction engines that look at researches the same terms instead of could be a daunting task. For one, the number of occurrences of a word collaborating, it is a duplication of you need to have a tool, have the or a string of words in order to deter- efforts and will not lead to consistent files in the right format, and decide mine whether or not to classify them target terminology. Furthermore, on certain extraction parameters. But as term candidates. Linguistic engines freelancers often do not have access the most intimidating aspect might be use information, such as part of to all of the information that resides the term mining output: a potentially speech, stemming, etc., for term on the client side. Indeed, they may long list of term candidates that you extraction. Your translation tool may not recognize an important new con- need to evaluate critically and decide come with such an engine. For cept in a long list of term candidates which would be useful in your term instance, memoQ has a term extraction because they may not have enough base. Let’s talk briefly about the ini- component and Trados MultiTerm has product knowledge. Ideally, compa- tial steps involved in this process and a sibling tool called Extract. Both are nies and organizations identify and zero in on criteria for identifying statistical extraction engines. Statis- document terminology before they good term candidates. tical engines generally produce more hand off content for translation. “noise” (i.e., unwanted term candi- If you have never performed term Preparation dates) than linguistic engines. As a mining, term harvesting, or term There is a variety of tools on the result, they require more cleanup extraction—all synonyms for the market with term extraction capabili- efforts. process of identifying terminology ties. Many of them are based on sta- What is involved in the cleanup?

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 19 Term Extraction: 10,000 Term Candidates—Now What? Continued

The tool has provided you with a list of term candidates. Term candidates are words or strings of words that the extraction engine has identified as Ideally, companies and organizations should identify and document something that you might want to terminology before they hand off content for translation. include in your term base. Good tools also provided you with context, the context source, and the frequency with which the term candidate occur- red. You must now go through the pattern, we should include both in our gization; it now has a specific meaning list and either pick what you want term base. in the information technology field. and transfer it into the term base or These two categories help us Similarly, an existing term in one field delete what you do not want and determine a good number of candi- may represent a new concept in import the remaining list into the dates. The following are more another field. Virus is a medical term term base. refined criteria that have come out of that was borrowed by information many large term mining efforts. The technology experts to take on a similar Making Good and Fast Choices list is not exhaustive, but it might meaning for computers, one with After you have done this a few give you a good idea of what to look which we are all familiar today. It is times, you might know exactly what for. Based on your specific subject tricky to catch these terms in a term you want. But if you have never field or type of material (e.g., soft- mining project when we are not gone through a list of term candi- ware strings versus free-flowing familiar with them. dates, you might need some selection text), you may want to refine or criteria. The following are some of extend the list. 6. Degree of Specialization: the most obvious ones. Technical language cannot do without 3. Novelty: New texts deal with new technical terms. In fact, it must con- 1. Abbreviations and Their Long concepts via their new designations— tain technically precise language so Forms: We often cannot be sure what new terms or names—otherwise they as not to hinder communication. And an abbreviation stands for. Therefore, would not need to be written. New some of these technical terms repre- acronyms, short forms, initialisms, terms and names obviously make sent highly specialized concepts: etc., along with their fully spelt-out good term candidates. You might ideas with which freelance translators forms, are worthy term base entries. want to be clear about whether new who do not deal with documents in For example, in manufacturing soft- means new to the content supply this field on a daily basis might be ware, we would want to document chain (e.g., new to the translation unfamiliar. For example, if you were MRP along with its full form, manu- memory, new to the translation team), to identify complex concepts in this facturing resource planning. or whether it is new to the termi- article, terminologization might be a nology database. term that you would include in your 2. Homographs: A term that might term base, since it represents a pretty have two different meanings is also a 4. Confusability: The main reason a specialized concept even in the field good candidate for inclusion in a term term or concept can be confused with of terminology management. base. In an ideal world, we do not something else is homography, which have homographs in the same text or we already covered. But you might 7. Frequency and Distribution: Our subject area, but in reality we often find other reasons why a term or con- term mining output file should give find a term or name that represents cept could cause confusion, which is us an indication of how often a par- different concepts. For example, in a why you should add it to your term ticular term or name comes up in the manufacturing context, MRP might base with all appropriate terminolog- original files. It would also be good also stand for materials requirement ical data. to know whether it comes up in one planning, mid-range planning, or or more files. While we would usu- maintenance recovery period. Other 5. Terminologization or ally want to include designations that examples are standards that are often Transdisciplinary Borrowing: occur, for instance, in the software, in named exactly like their underlying Another cause for homography, and the help text, and on the packaging technology, even down to capitaliza- therefore the potential for confusion, material, high frequency might mean tion (e.g., Bluetooth, USB, VGA). So, is when common, everyday words that we do not include it. This is since we have two concepts—one for become specialized terms and adopt a because terms that come up often the standard, one for the technology— very specific meaning in a subject might be so well known and so clear and target-language designations field. For example, the word cloud has that we do not need to include them. might not follow the same naming undergone what is called terminolo- Of course, if they have a very awk-

20 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 ward spelling you would still include them in a term base. The same goes for names that do not come up very often. This is something we definitely have to keep in mind, but in large Related References projects, we might have to limit our focus on the medium- to high-fre- quency terms for lack of time. Warburton, Kara. “Glossary Creation Service Leveraging 8. Visibility: A new concept may not be mentioned very often, but it may State-of-the-Art Term Extraction,” be so important and prominently http://termologic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/ mentioned (e.g., only in the title) that it is worth adding the term or termextraction.pdf. name as well. For example, transla- tors working on a project would need to know and understand the slogan of International Standard 1087-1: Terminology Work–Vocabulary– the latest marketing campaign in Part 1: Theory and Application (Geneva: International order to do it justice. Organization for Standardization, 2000). 9. System: This warrants a bit more explanation. Terminology research and documentation is ideally always Karsch, Barbara Inge. “Term Selection.” Blog series by BIK done with a systematic approach in Terminology, http://bikterminology.com/category/ mind. That means that we do not focus on one concept in isolation. process-2/selecting-terms/:2011. Rather, we address related concepts together. For example, if a medical device, such as an external defibril- lator, has many different types of cables, we look at all of the cables together. Doing so helps in two ways. First, it helps us understand how one cable is different from another. Second, it is much faster to research nized terminology in all target lan- quent projects, since you will now all of the cables at one time rather guages. It is perfectly legitimate for a deal only with terms and concepts than researching them separately. translator to request that additions be that are new instead of starting your Even if a particular concept does not made to the database to serve stan- research from scratch each time. For come up in the mined material, it dardization purposes better. This way example, for Windows Vista over might still be good to include it. a team of, say, 10 Japanese translators 2000, new concepts and terms were Doing so will make the system more will use the same term for a new con- documented in the Microsoft termi- complete and help those doing the cept instead of leaving it in English, nology management system. For research in the target language under- transliterating, or making a choice Windows 8 and 8.1, the new addi- stand the concepts. between the options the different syl- tions were in the hundreds. Also, labaries might inspire. once you have your source and target 10. Standardization: Finally, we terminology entered into a system, document terms and names because Provide a Footprint for Future you can automate part of the quality we always want to use the same Productivity assurance process. spelling, or perhaps never want to use The criteria above have different Extracting and managing your any of the available synonyms. This weight for different terms or names. terminology has many benefits. is one of the main aspects of doing After you have gone through a few Building the term base is not an easy terminology work for authoring in term mining projects, identifying process. But the above criteria can one language. Furthermore, it is terms and names from the suggested give you a good idea of what your impossible for one person to identify list of candidates becomes second database users might like to see. n all of the terms or names that might nature. The time you spend on need to be included to have harmo- research will grow shorter for subse-

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 21

Interview with a Game Localizer By Marta Chereshnovska

Do you know how thrilling your results, as long as you accom- a tag is broken, or a menu is referred and challenging game localization is? plish the job. You are free to experi- to with the wrong name, someone has Let’s talk about this with Alain ment with any kind of literary, to go and fix it. And it is usually the Dellepiane, an English>Italian game technological, or management same person who will provide the localization director. approach. If your text matches final feedback on your work! expectations, no one will say a Hopefully, there are many quality Please tell us a little about word. This gives you the freedom assurance tools out there giving you yourself. How did you get involved to evolve your own work style super-human error spotting powers, with game localization? gradually, which is really rewarding. like finding a single wrong digit I started as a game localizer 10 However, expectations are among thousands or spotting an years ago. I was in England looking evolving constantly. For example, inconsistency with a translation done for a job where I could use my lan- being the translator for Tomb Raider five years ago by someone else. I guage skills. I became a localization in 1996 and in 2013 could nominally always allocate the last hour before tester at Take 2 interactive, which is be considered the same job (and delivery for a quick check with now mostly known for its labels 2K localization budgets and schedules ApSIC Xbench, and no matter how Games and Rockstar Games. were probably not that different), but careful we have been, it always spots Initially, the entire localization there is no denying that expectations some little thing. It is almost unit was run by me and a French col- between the two versions grew. So, annoying! I guess no one would league, so for more than two years I the freedom and experimentation I deliver a translation without running had the chance to edit and test pretty mentioned is also a necessity. What the spell-checker first, which is how I much everything they published. was a neat little trick yesterday could feel about a quality assurance check: That added up to over 24 different be your job saver today and may well it is that helpful. titles, an average of one per month, pay your rent tomorrow. Sometimes The second (and hopefully more providing a great exposure and it feels like a constant rush to keep inspiring!) path is learning how learning experience.1 up, so it can get a bit tiring. games work and using that as a Meanwhile, I studied online to get reference for your translation. For my diploma in translation through Can you recommend some best example, think about movies. Trans- the Institute of Linguists at City practices (and/or tools) for proper lators who know a little bit about University London, which jump- game localization? moviemaking—from script structure started my freelance translation Well, there are as many different to acting styles to film cutting—will career once I came back to Italy. In approaches to this job as there are undeniably offer more effective dia- 2007, I moved to Tokyo for a project translators, and I cannot seriously logues because they will understand and, roughly one year later, joined boast mine as The Right Way To Do the underlying goals and mechanics forces with two other translators, Stuff, but I can share the most prom- of the projects on which they work. I becoming a sort of project ising paths I found. One is quality truly believe a good game translator manager/editor/ translator hybrid. assurance. should do the same, which means Yes, translation is a lifetime understanding games from the per- What is the most challenging and struggle for truth, beauty, and love, spectives of both a player and a most rewarding part of your but, in my experience, clients are developer. work? mostly concerned with getting the For example, I recently listened to As a freelance game translator, no darned thing out in a decent working an episode of the Extra Credits web- one really minds how you achieve state. Every time your text is too long, cast discussing a paper on ·

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 23 Interview with a Game Localizer Continued genres and some game design theory, What would your advice be to demonstrate the most vital skill of entitled “Mechanics-Dynamics- translators who want to get into all: getting things done. Aesthetics.”2 At first sight, the paper game localization? For your entire career, you will seems completely irrelevant for a The big catch-22 is that few double as a problem solver. You will translator, but under the surface it is people will take you in unless you encounter new genres, new plat- a goldmine of very practical guide- already have game localization expe- forms, and new tools. You will lines for any string of text. What tone rience. It may seem unfair, but this is always have to analyze problems, should I keep? What kind of termi- a young field. There is some con- break them down to their essential nology should I use? How much can sensus on what a professional trans- pieces, and come up with a solution. I characterize? It is all written there, lation should look like, but we are far Show that you can do it and you are and the paper is just five pages long!3 from having rules set in stone. In halfway there. Good luck! My team was recently involved other words, this is a job that must be with a classic one-on-one fighting learned by trial and error, and pre- Before the interview, you game that has a strong online commu- cious few can afford to wait for you mentioned an interesting event nity. Seen from a traditional perspec- to do it. coming up. tive, the focus of the translation Given my background, it is not Yes, if anyone reading this would should be on the lore, the characters, surprising that I see localization like to try their hand at game local- and the flamboyant names of their testing jobs as the best path, as they ization in a simple and fun way, the moves (e.g., “Spinning Bird Kick!”, give you great experience and a solid Game Localization Special Interest “North Star Hundred Crack Fist!”, reference for the CV. However, you Group of the International Game “The Real Soviet Damage Tager will also need to be ready to move Developers Association is organizing Buster!”).4 abroad. (Ideally, you should already a nonprofit contest during the last Instead, we got in touch with a be in countries like England or week of February until March 1. It game journalist who specialized in Canada for the interview!) Under- is called LocJAM and we will have that specific genre. We double standably, not everyone can do that, jurors for eight languages and work- wrapped him in non-disclosure agree- but you can still build some experi- shops all over the world. Please visit ments and then worked together in ence on your own. http://locjam.org/press-kit for more order to shape the core glossary For example, take the Humble details together. This paid back in spades, Indie Bundles.5 There is a new one because under all of the flamboyance, almost every month, they always Will do, and many thanks for your online fighting has a set of codified have interesting titles, and quite often insightful answers, Alain! n rules and techniques that is not far they are fairly easy to translate (and away from an international judo retranslate) yourself. Using the con- Notes championship! tent of these games to practice your 1. Dellepiane, Alain. “My Career in Now, do not get me wrong. I am translation and hone your gaming 24 Games @GLOC247,” not saying that translators should knowledge is great exposure, and all www.localization.it/my-career-in- embark on long-winded academic for less than six dollars (and while 24-games. research in fields that are not strictly helping charity to boot!). For theirs. But I do believe that we are example, if a potential candidate for 2. Extra Credits: Aesthetics of Play, part of game development and a localization job translated a chal- www.youtube.com/watch?v=uepA involved in all aspects of it. From lenging game from one of the J-rqJKA. game design to writing to audio—if Bundles and linked a YouTube something is ever written or said, it playthrough on a CV, I would prob- 3. Hunicke, Robin, Marc LeBlanc, is for us. Knowing more about the ably check it out even if he or she and Robert Zubek. “Mechanics, other fields of game-making and had no professional experience. First, Dynamics, and Aesthetics: A understanding how they work essen- it would allow the client to assess Formal Approach to Game Design tially boils down to being a good quickly the translator’s skills in con- and Game Research,” neighbor! text, but most importantly, it would www.cs.northwestern.edu/ ~hunicke/MDA.pdf.

March 14, 2015 May 15-17, 2015 4. Dargenio, Angelo. “25 Most Iconic Fighting Game Moves #5 - Carolina Association of National Association of Judiciary #1,” http://arcadesushi.com/most- Upcoming Translators and Interpreters Interpreters and Translators iconic-fighting-game-moves-5-1. 28th Annual Conference 36th Annual Conference Raleigh, NC Atlanta, Georgia 5. Humble Bundle, www.humble www.catiweb.org www.najit.org bundle.com.

24 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Blog Trekker

Marketing by E-mail, On Paper, or Both

(Posted by Corinne McKay on her business card was still kicking around between you and the potential client. blog, Thoughts on Translation, their office. What is the appeal? http://thoughtsontranslation.com.) 3. They let you say more than you 1. They are short. It takes me under In marketing your freelance would in an e-mail. No one is going one minute to read 125 words. I get a services, you may wonder (or at to read an e-mail that is the equiva- lot of unsolicited e-mail (marketing least I do) whether it is better to lent of a full-page cover letter. But I pitches from other translators, requests market to direct clients by e-mail, on have had fairly good success with for information about freelancing, paper, or both. I do not have a suc- full-page cover letters sent in the requests to speak or write or present, cinct answer to that, but here are a mail. They let you describe your etc.). When I open an e-mail and it is few thoughts. recent projects, something about the short, personalized, and to the point, I For a long time, I was a devotée client that makes you feel there is a actually feel interested in reading it. of marketing on paper: writing out a good fit, etc. (Here is something written just for me full-page cover letter, attaching my and it will take two seconds—maybe it resumé and a business card, sticking The downside of paper marketing is interesting!) But when I open an it all in an envelope, and mailing it to materials is that they are time-con- unsolicited e-mail and it is 500 words, the potential client. I also did a suming and potentially costly to or begins with “I’d like to start by number of postcard marketing cam- create and send, and your prospect telling you about myself,” I often leave paigns, and I do think there is a place has to make a very deliberate effort the e-mail “for later,” which usually for paper marketing materials: (in the form of calling or e-mailing means much later, or if the e-mail is you) to respond. There is no reply not personalized, I end up deleting it 1. They stand out. Most people’s button on a paper letter, so the pros- without reading it. postal mail is 95% ads and bills. So, pect has to be really interested in although your marketing packet is a order to follow up. 2. They invite immediate action. If type of ad, it is also interesting, and Just because I wondered what I your prospect is interested, they can personalized, and shows that you might be missing, I recently joined Ed click Reply, and simply answer, took more than 30 seconds to put Gandia’s Warm E-mail Prospecting “Sounds interesting; can you send me something together for this poten- course. It is online and self-paced, and some more information?” or “We may tial candidate. I really like it. It has helped me see the need someone like you in the future; advantages of e-mail marketing—not feel free to connect with me on 2. They stick around. Once someone blast e-mails that you send to 1,000 LinkedIn,” and they are done with it. deletes an e-mail, it is gone. But I potential prospects with one click, but have gotten inquiries from clients (lit- short (125 words or less), targeted, 3. They are easy to create once you erally) years after I sent them a mar- personalized e-mails that you send get the hang of it. And easy is keting pitch in the mail, because my when you see a meaningful connection good. Easy is what gets done. Instead of tailoring the cover letter, then printing it, then printing your resumé, then locating a business card Information and Contacts and an envelope, then stressing about whether the paper should be white or off-white, and whether it is Internet blogs are rich sources of information for translators and interpreters. They allow users to post questions, okay to use your leftover Christmas exchange ideas, network, and read news and commentary on a specific subject. The topics featured in this column are stamps on business letters, and so actual blog postings concerning issues pertinent to your colleagues in the field today. For more blog listings, visit on, you just fire the thing off and www.atanet.org/resources/blog_trekker.php. you are done. n

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 25 The Entrepreneurial Linguist Judy Jenner

The Standing Desk Experiment

I am quite aware that sitting is The desk cost $350, and the all colleagues, especially at the attrac- widely considered the new smoking, package arrived in a huge box in five tive price of $350 (and that is the and I am always looking for ways to days. It only took 10 minutes to get most expensive model). I purchased reduce the amount of sitting I do.1 things going. Basically, you place the the PRO Plus model, which fits two I already take frequent breaks and Varidesk down on your desk, activate screens. (I have two screens, but also work out every day, but it is hard to the lever (there are several settings for have neck problems, so I usually use get around sitting while translating. standing) to raise it, and you are all set. just one.) The cheapest model is $275, Well, as it turns out, it is not that hard. The process could not be easier. The and the entire thing is high-quality, While my twin sister and business box was quite heavy, but I managed to sturdy, and very well made. partner, Dagy, has had a custom-built set everything up myself. I do not think I will ever go back standing desk for many years that she At the time of this writing, I have to a regular desk, and I believe my uses relatively frequently (it is a sep- been using the desk for a few weeks, health will thank me. With the new arate structure next to her desk), I and have actually never sat down standing desk, it is really easy to never had one. I recently decided to during that entire time. I also picked switch between standing and sitting, purchase a standing desk, and here is up a $50 mat from Varidesk that and I will probably do some combi- my report on the purchase makes standing for long very comfort- nation thereof. For now, my new Until I discovered Varidesk,2 I did able. The Varidesk app keeps track of standing desk is so exciting that I not like the prices I was seeing on how many calories you are burning have yet to sit down, but I will also standing desks (up to $2,500, until Ikea and lets you pre-program standing and admit to working a bit less during the came up with a very affordable solu- sitting times. You then get a pop-up holiday season. I have yet to test tion, although it has sold out at many telling you to sit down or stand. The standing for a 10-hour workday. n stores). I also did not like the fact that I calories counter seems a bit off, as the would have to replace the L-shaped app claims that I have burned 564 Notes desk I like so much. I learned about calorie in four hours of standing today 1. Park, Alice. “Sitting Is Killing Varidesk adjustable desk risers on (seems high to me). I feel healthier, You,” Time (September 2, 2014), Twitter and finally ordered one as an although it does take some getting http://time.com/sitting. early Christmas present to myself and used to at times, as I am just not my health. The Varidesk is designed to accustomed to standing for long 2. Varidesk, www.varidesk.com. sit on top of your existing desk, periods. allowing you to change easily from a I am very happy with my purchase sitting to a standing position. and would definitely recommend it to

Information and Contacts

This column is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or other business advice. Each individual or company should make its own independent business decisions and consult its own legal, financial, or other advisors as appropriate. The views expressed here are not necessarily those of ATA or its Board of Directors. Ideas and ques- tions should be directed to [email protected].

Judy Jenner is a court-certified Spanish interpreter and a Spanish and German translator in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she runs Twin Translations with her twin sister. She is a past president of the Nevada Interpreters and Translators Association. She hosts the translation blog, Translation Times (www.translationtimes.blogspot.com). You can also find her at www.entrepreneuriallinguist.com. Contact: [email protected] or [email protected].

26 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Interpreters Forum Jennifer De La Cruz

Perfectly Imperfect and Proud of It

Have you ever seen Superman pausing to research the perfect communication being achieved Returns? I have seen it a few times vocabulary choices is expected, an according to the standards set by law. since it was released in 2006, but I interpreter must not only choose the There should never be a time when recently saw it on my high-tech proper words, but also make them fit the limited-English-proficient HDTV for the first time. I found the nicely into a well enunciated and speaker is not on an equal playing experience a bit disturbing. Much of paced rendering. The environment field with the English speaker what I saw of the actual Superman may be noisy and confusing, the because I decided to perform poorly character was a computer-generated speech may be emotional, rapid, or or failed to bring my best into the image that was just unreal enough slurred. Being functional under those game. We still have to consider the for my human spirit to sense some- conditions is often the best we can balance, though. I have been in many thing was not right. It drove me up do. Our performance is expected to situations where an attorney and his the wall for the entire movie. I was achieve levels closer to perfection client are passionately discussing a reminded of how, as interpreters, it when we are interpreting for an audi- matter through me, and I am doing can be unnerving when we realize ence such as a full courtroom or on a my best but not expecting perfection. something is not interpreted well. particularly high-stakes matter. I do not think I have ever disap- I do not think that I have ever All of this makes complete sense pointed them as I keep up with their been told by someone listening to my when we stop to analyze it. Perfec- pace, though stumbling occasionally interpretation that it did not meet tion in an imperfect situation is through a phrase, sounding unnatural, their needs. However, I am quite sure something for which to aim, to hope or committing the sin of omitting that I have had my share of less-than- for, but definitely not something easy something small like an extra side ideal interpreting moments. I have to pull off. In fact, it is very difficult. comment. Put me on a witness stand corrected myself mid-sentence, asked We have to be extremely aware of where the environment is the most for repetitions and clarifications, and our internal and external limitations. controlled in the courthouse, how- realized that I could have been using In order to reach maximum perform- ever, and the story is different. a more precise term. Sure, my per- ance, we may have to intervene to We are human. Like Superman formance is functional, but does it take control and perhaps slow things Returns reminded me, there must be a have all of the right ingredients to down to an unnatural pace. If we balance struck between perfection and leave the listener more satisfied than worry enough about a perfect per- function. There were just enough I was with the computer-generated formance, however, could there be a important scenes where the director image on my TV? moment when we are no longer used a human instead of a computer- We work in a profession that serving the needs of those around us? generated image that I forgave him for expects us to have perfection at the As a federally certified court inter- the disturbing non-human moments. tip of our tongues at all times. Unlike preter, I am a strong proponent of Yes, the movie was imperfect for that the world of a translator, where ensuring that I am not a barrier to the reason, but I am a huge fan of Kevin Spacey, so all was definitely forgiven. As we think of how we are expected to perform, our aim should be to achieve perfection in the lis- Information and Contacts teners’ minds and according to our professional oaths. However, let’s Jennifer De La Cruz is a federally certified court interpreter, an ATA-certified Spanish<>English trans- lator, and a staff court interpreter in Southern California. In addition to freelancing as a translator special- remember that the imperfect sur- izing in the areas of law, medicine, and business, she writes for the blog of the National Association of roundings may require us to use Judiciary Interpreters and Translators. She has been working as a professional interpreter and translator some special effects of our own once since 1997. Contact: [email protected]. in a while just to make the whole great despite some flawed parts. n

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 27 Dictionary Review Reviewed by The Dictionary Reviews are compiled by Jacopo Madaro Moro Peter A. Gergay

Dictionary of Maritime Terms

Author: Price: Pietro del Rosso $33.48

Publisher: ISBN: Witherby Seamanship International 978-1-85609-639-3 (Print) 978-1-85609-640-9 (e-Book) Publication date: 2014 (first edition: 2011) Available from: Witherby Publishing Group Number of pages/entries: www.witherbyseamanship.com 409 pages Around 6,000 entries

Mention the term “seafaring national Maritime Dangerous Goods • Papagno, Domenico, and Guidetti, nation” and one immediately thinks (IMDG) code, and the ranks in the Armando (PDGA). Dizionario of a country with seacoasts all Navy, to name just a few categories. Tecnico Marittimo Commerciale, around like Greece and Italy. It is English-Italian (Milan: Pirola therefore not strange that the Dict- Reference Comparison Editore, 1986). ionary of Maritime Terms would Considering the wealth of material make particular reference to Italian contained in this compact dictionary, it The results appear in Table 1 on seafaring terms and water-borne seems useful to compare its coverage page 29. vehicles. This dictionary review was of specific terms with those found in This brief comparison highlights written by one of my predecessors as the glossary of the World Shipping some of the strengths of the DMT, chair of ATA’s Dictionary Review Council (http://ow.ly/HEGD4) and to namely its completeness, especially Committee, Jacopo Madaro Moro. check these against the following gold when it comes to acronyms and ter- standards: minology related to the shipping industry. Nevertheless, the World The Dictionary of Maritime Terms • Brodie, Peter. Dictionary of Shipping Council glossary tells us (DMT) is a slender paperback printed Shipping Terms, English-Italian little about what is missing in del on acid-free paper and illustrated with (London: Lloyd’s of London Rosso’s impressive recueil. In fact, an estimated 600 black-and-white Press, Ltd., 1988). only a targeted reading reveals that photographs and drawings. The illus- the DMT focuses on current vessels trations are small but high-resolution, • Bernabò, Silorata, and F. Picchi and maritime practices but is defi- and the two-column format with bold- (BSP). Dizionario di Marina, cient in entries for sailing technolo- faced headwords is highly readable. Italian-English (Salerno: Di gies and terminology. While the The DMT English>Italian section Mauro Editore, 1970). DMT lists all seven components of covers 141 pages. It is separated from an anchor (fuso, ceppo, cicala, dia- the Italian>English section by 65 pages • Illustrated Technical Dictionary, mante, marra, palma, and unghia — of acronyms (some 3,000 entries). Italian-English-French-Dutch- or shank, stock, ring, crown, arm or The dictionary per se is followed by a Spanish-German (Bruxelles: World fluke, blade, and bill or pea), the table of irregular English verbs and a Association for Waterborne Trans - same cannot be said about rigging in 56-page appendix, which contains port Infrastructure-PIANC, 1967). general. For example, out of 27 pos- basically everything, including ship sible rigging variations found in the schematics, the Saffir/Simpson hurri- • Segditsas, P. E. Nautical Dictionary, BSP dictionary, the DMT includes cane scale, casting off and steering English-French-Italian-Spanish- only the terms listed in Table 2. orders, flags of the international code Dutch (Amsterdam: Elsevier While “clipper” is present (albeit of signals, ship signage, the Inter- Publishing Co., 1965). translated as veliero veloce or “fast

28 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Table 1. Presence of WSC terminology (and its Italian equivalent) in various maritime dictionaries

World Shipping Council Italian Meaning Brodie BSP PIANC Segditsas PDGA DMT Bill of lading (B/L) Polizza di carico ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Box Container ☑* ☑* ☑ ☑* Brake horsepower Potenza al freno ☑ ☑ ☑ Break hull Groupage / carico frazionato ☑ Bulk cargo Carico alla rinfusa ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Carrier Vettore ☑** ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑†††† Charter rate Rata di nolo

CO2 emissions Emissioni di CO2 Container Container ☑*** ☑ ☑ ☑†† ☑ ☑ Container terminal Terminal per container ☑ ☑ ☑ ⇔ FEU ☑ [Forty-foot Equivalent Unit] Freight rate Tariffa di nolo ☑ ☑††† Gantry crane Gru a ponte ☑**** ☑**** ☑ ☑ Intermodalism Intermodalismo

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea ⇔ ☑ ☑ ☑ (SOLAS) International Maritime Organization (IMO) ⇔ ☑ ☑ International Organization for Standardization (ISO) ⇔ ☑ ☑

International Ship and Port Facility Security Code ⇔ ☑ (ISPS Code) Knot Nodo ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Maiden voyage Viaggio inaugurale ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Manifest Manifesto ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Pallet ⇔ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ Reefer Container frigorifero ⇔ ☑ ☑† ☑ ☑ Shipper Caricatore ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ⇔ TEU ☑***** [Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit] ***** ☑ ☑ US Customs - Trade Partner Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) ⇔ ☑ Vessel Nave ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ World Customs Organization (WCO) ⇔ ☑

Total terms found/ 17 13 7 10 19 21 28 total terms Completeness of coverage (%) (61%) (46%) (25%) (36%) (68%) (30%)

Legend: * Translated as cassa † Translated as nave frigorifera  Found ** Translated as trasportatore †† Translated as contenente ⇔ Lemma unchanged in Italian *** Translated as contenitore ††† Translated as tassa di nolo **** Translated as cavalletto †††† Translated as nave da trasporto ***** Only translated as contenitore equivalente a venti piedi

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 29 Table 2. Counting of rigging types listed in the DMT Italian English DMT Dinghy Dinghy ☑ Bilancella Seiner sailship”), only 15 masts and yards are listed, whereas the BSP dictionary offers 38 variations. To be fair, Sloop Sloop these absences are fully justified by the dictionary’s Tartana Tartan focus on today’s maritime realities. Navicello Periagua Overall Evaluation Feluca Feluca The DMT is not a maritime encyclopedia. It was Bovo Bovo intended as a working tool for the men and women involved in current maritime activities. As such, it is Yawl Yawl uniquely valuable and ranks with the very best refer- Ketch Ketch ences. The dictionary is exhaustive and accurate (I found only one typo: a dubious “to make water” or Trabaccolo Lugger ☑ imbarcare acqua instead of “to take water”). Those of Sciabecco Xebec ☑ us who work with ships and admiralty law should not Valacciere Sicilian coaster do without it, and even the generalists can profit from its broad coverage of maritime matters. So, I highly Lugro Lougre recommend it. n Goletta Schooner ☑ Bombarda Bomb-ketch Brigantino goletta Schooner brig ☑ Information and Brigantino Brig ☑ Goletta a palo Tern schooner Contacts Nave goletta Barquetine ☑* Brigantino a palo Bark ☑ Square rigger Nave Jacopo Madaro Moro has worked as a freelance translator and Nave a palo Four-masted bark interpreter since 1982, specializing in technical and scientific subjects for Nave a 4 alberi Four-masted square rigger the U.S., Italian, and Japanese markets. He chaired ATA’s Dictionary Review Committee from 1989 to 1993, has contributed over 20 Goletta a 5 alberi Five-masted schooner dictionary reviews and articles, and translated several books in a variety Nave a 5 alberi Five-masted square rigger of fields, from biomechanics to World War I. Contact: Nave a 5 alberi a palo Five-masted bark [email protected]. Goletta a 6 alberi Six-masted schooner Have an idea for a dictionary you would like to see Total terms found/ 8 terms reviewed? Contact Peter A. Gergay, chair of ATA's 27 total rigging variations Completeness of coverage (%) found (30%) Dictionary Review Committee, at [email protected].

Note: * Incorrectly listed as “schooner”

Each year, ATA’s Mentoring Program matches 30 mentees and mentors for a one-year mentorship period (April 15 to March 31). Mentees are ATA Mentoring Program selected through a competitive application process. ATA membership is required. Enrollment for the 2015 mentoring class is now open. Applications for both mentees and mentors will be accepted through March 7, 2015. Interested? Don’t wait! This will be your only opportunity to enroll in 2015. Look for the application form and additional details by visiting www.atanet.org/careers/mentoring.php.

30 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Many of ATA’s announcements, including division newslet- ters, webinar schedules, and conference updates, are sent to Don’t Miss Out! members by e-mail. To be sure that these messages don’t end up in your spam folder, take a minute now to add [email protected] to your “safe senders” list.

New Certified Members Congratulations! The following people have successfully passed ATA’s certification exam:

English into Chinese English into Japanese Jiayin V. W. Furnish Masako Shoji Essick Indianapolis, IN Troy, OH

Liming Pals German into English Meservey, IA Annett S. Brown Dallas, TX Ying Peng Villa Park, IL Spanish into English Holly Behl English into Italian Grand Prairie, TX Silvia Manganelli Montesilvano, Italy

All candidates applying for ATA Upcoming Exams certification must provide proof that they meet the certification ATA Certification program eligibility requirements. Please direct all inquiries regard- Exam Information ing general certification informa- tion to ATA Headquarters at +1-703-683-6100. Registration for all certification exams should California Michigan Pennsylvania Croatia be made through ATA San Diego Grand Rapids Philadelphia Zagreb March 21, 2015 May 16, 2015 April 26, 2015 April 30, 2015 Headquarters. All sittings have a Registration Deadline Registration Deadline: Registration Deadline: Registration Deadline: maximum capacity and admis- March 6, 2015 May 1, 2015 April 10, 2015 April 16, 2015 sion is based on the order in which registrations are received. Kansas Novi Washington Forms are available from ATA’s Overland Park August 1, 2015 Seattle March 29, 2015 Registration Deadline: May 2, 2015 website or from Headquarters. Registration Deadline: July 17, 2015 Registration Deadline: March 13, 2015 April 17, 2015

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 31 The Translation Inquirer John Decker

Imagine the Translation (French>English 2-15.4) (Spanish>Dutch [English] 2-15.8) Inquirer’s surprise when he walked Retournement de la base effort con- Where ostenta would naturally be into a hospital waiting room, and struction appeared in a document expected, a colleague instead found there, among the magazines to be dealing with a company’s consoli- osea in this sentence, and therefore read by patients waiting to be seen, dated accounts. This query has been was somewhat at a loss. Here is the was Routledge’s Translation Review, partially solved, in that “effort con- context: Y es que el que tengan poca a copy from 2013 that featured the struction” is an employer’s manda- capacidad económica o el hecho de Catalan language. It was very inter- tory contribution to housing. Can que osea trabajos estresantes donde esting! Who would have thought anyone provide the English? apenas gozan de tiempo para comer when it was left behind that a profes- les lleva a optar por esta opción sional translator would pick it up? (Italian>English 2-15.5) rápida y barata. Is there a Dutch or Controstampato appeared in a docu- English solution to this? New Queries ment about composite material. Here (English>Dutch 2-15.1) “Hearing is the context: I punti di giunzione (Spanish>German [English] Conservation” proved difficult in the non vengono incollati ma contro- 2-15.9) In a context-poor document, phrase “Noise Management & Hear- stampati dando garanzia di una the text for this query derives from ing Conservation.” The translator tenuta elevatissima. Le nostre scale an intermediate balance sheet of a posing the query had various pro- P-sono interamente costruite in mate- company. It speaks of imputación de posals for rendering the latter, but riale composito e vetroresina senza subvenciones de inmovilizado no found none of them truly satisfactory. nessuna parte metallica. What is this? financiero y otras, a concept that Can anyone help? made little sense to the colleague (Norwegian>English 2-15.6) posing the query. (English>Serbian 2-15.2) Who can Samlekartong proved difficult in this provide the Serbian for the word “dis- sentence about moving goods about Replies to Old Queries claimer” in a copyright document? in commerce: Varer leveres til lager (Bulgarian>English 10-14.1) eller detailhandel i samlekartonger, (непрофилирана подготовка): (English>Swedish 2-15.3) A altså ikke som individuelle pakker. Kathleen Davis believes this may Swedish equivalent is needed for Who can help? refer to non-specialized training (i.e., “strut-card dispenser.” These cards educational courses that do not follow are usually printed in full-color with (Polish>Italian [English] 2-15.7) a specialty profile). One would have images and promotional text and then What is a zasięg? The term comes to view the entire transcript to see mounted onto cardboard with a strut from the world of mechanical engi- which courses were “profiled” (geared (a support) in the back so they can be neering. Here is some context: toward a specialized application). placed upright. The card is used as an Budynek główny w części socjalnej eye-catching display where merchan- wyposażono w hydranty wewnętrzne z (Polish>English 10-14.7) (Materiał dise is sold. wężami półsztywnymi o zasięgu 33 m. operacyjny zgodny): Kathleen Davis suggests “surgical materials correctly accounted for.” This implies that a count of the material used in the oper- ating room after the procedure ended was identical to the number before the Information and Contacts operation began. In other words, nothing was left inside the patient. E-mail queries and responses by the first of each month to [email protected] (subject line: The Translation Inquirer). Generous assistance from Per Dohler, proofreader, is gratefully acknowledged. (Russian>English 10-14.9) (инфильтративно-очаговые

32 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 THE CENTER FOR translation изменения): This, states Kathleen opinion, it is okay to render this as Davis, refers to “focal infiltrate “energy consumption.” However, changes” in the lungs. These changes “recovery” here seems out of place. studies are localized rather than diffuse (i.e., The original text probably implied widespread throughout one or both that the energy consumption was back lungs) and visible on a chest x-ray. to a desirable level (a low one). Such changes appear as foreign sub- MA in stances distributed in the pulmonary (German>French 11-14.6) (Der Harz interstices. zeigt sich im besten Wetter): Hermann TTrranslatioranslation Schibli believes that the phrase sich im (Dutch>English 11-14.1) besten Wetter zeigen is best translated and (doorstempellijsten): Leonid Gornik without any reference to weather, and says these are “punch lists.” A punch means something like “The Harz Interpreting list is a list of tasks that need to be Mountains show themselves from their completed to satisfy the terms of a best side” or “in their best light.” SSppecialization TTrrraacks: construction contract (in this case, Therese Iknoian prefers “The Harz is welding jobs). Such lists may be at its best in nice weather” or “The • Translation ffoor the Proffeessioessions included in the contract itself, but Harz shines in good weather.” The • Lit erary and Applied more commonly, they are generated exact tweaking of this would depend Literary Translation in the final phases of construction, as on the context. Wayles Browne would • Conference and people walk around the site and note go with “In especially good weather Community Interpreting any issues and deficiencies that need one can see the Harz Mountains.” The to be resolved. The term “punch list” particular context indicates that the is a reference to the fact that people view of the mountains is best from a online OR used to punch a hole in the paper next location an hour’s drive to the west. to tasks that had been completed. ON CAMPUS (German>Russian [English] 9-14.6) The program can support students working (English>French 11-14.2) (quali- A correction is needed: “palette’s fying floating charge): Leonid Gornik delight” should be “palate’s delight,” from any of the 37 languages currently believes that the best solution for as submitted by Maria Graciela Otoya taught at the University of Illinois at this is charge flottante admissible, Diehn in her initial response to this Urbana-Champaign School of Literatures, meaning some sort of security (e.g., query. The problem word was Cultures and Linguistics. Text translation against borrowing by a company). Gaumenfreuden. We regret this typo. students will work from their second language into English. Interpreting (Russian>English 11-14.4) Thanks to all who contributed. I students will work bidirectionally between (восстановление энергопо- hope 2015 is treating you well! n their second and first languages. требления): In Leonid Gornik’s Apply nowffoor Fall 2015 admission. Applications will be accepted until the class is full. For more information, contact Program Sponsor Elizabeth Lowe, Professor and THE ATA COMPASS Directorr,, Center ffoorTranslation Studies: Your guide to translation in the global market [email protected] or (217) 300-1488. MA.TRANSLATIONAND An Outreach Publication of INTERPRETING.ILLINOIS.EDU the American Translators Association The ATA Compass is a client outreach blog designed to educate current and potential clients by providing useful and practical information about the language services industry. Check it out at UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS http://theatacompass.org AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN School of Literatures, Cultures and Linguistics College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 33 Humor and Translation Mark Herman

Roots

Linguists hypothesize “bucolic,” and “bugle.” “Kaito-” “bear” or “carry” (“-late”). Several that, about 5,000 or 6,000 years ago in means “forest,” giving rise to Indo-European roots are at work present-day Turkey, a people lived “savage land” (“heath”) and “savage here. First, there is “tere-,” which, who spoke a highly inflected language people” (“heathens”). “Kâ-” means in addition to the prefix “trans-,” now called Proto-Indo-European. to “like” and “desire,” giving rise to gave rise to “thorough,” “through,” Today, some three billion people are “caress,” “cherish,” and “charity,” “transient,” “trench,” “trunk,” and native speakers of Indo-European lan- but also “Kamasutra” and “whore.” even, somehow, “thrill” and “nos- guages, that is, languages derived To say that someone’s singing tril.” Two Indo-European roots from Proto-Indo-European, the mor- sounds like a chicken may not be as meant “carry”: “bher-“ and “tele-.” phemes of which differentiated in all big an insult as usually thought. The first gave rise to “transfer,” the sorts of ways to give rise to modern “Hen” come from “kan-,” which second to “translate.” Both are vocabularies. And the etymological means “to sing.” The root also gave included in the irregular Latin verb connections can be surprising. The rise to “chant,” “cantata,” “accent,” “transferre,” the past participle of following are taken from the appendix and “charm,” among other words, but which is “translatus.” The root of the American Heritage Dictionary not “sing” itself, which comes from a “tele-” also means “to lift, support, of the English Language. different root. weigh,” leading to words meaning “Albho-,” means “white,” and, as Some roots gave rise to an aston- to lift someone up (“extol”), words expected, gave rise to “albino” and ishing number of modern words. referring to money, which at one “albumen.” However, the root also “Sekw-,” meaning “to follow,” led to time was measured by weight (“toll” produced “auburn,” “album,” “elf,” the English words “assign,” “asso- and “talent”), and a word indicating “Oberon,” and “Alberich.” ciate,” “consequent,” “consign,” a “paying back” (“retaliate”). And “bacteria” and “imbecile” are “designate,” “dissociate,” “ensue,” “Language” comes from the root related (look it up!). “execute,” “extrinsic,” “insignia,” “dnghû-.” “Computer” comes from “Bel-” means strong, which “intrinsic,” “obsequious,” “persecute,” “peu-,” meaning to “cut” (“ampu- somehow got transmuted to “large” “prosecute,” “resign,” “seal,” “sect,” tate”), “strike,” or “stamp,” extended in Slavic, giving rise to the Russian “segue,” “seguidilla,” “sequacious,” to mean “to settle an account,” and большой and большевик. But in “sequel,” “sequence,” “sequester,” further extended to mean “compute.” English, the root is present in “sign,” “sociable,” “social,” “society,” Finally, interpreters do not usually negated form, as in “debilitate.” “subsequent,” “sue,” and “suitor.” The know that they are in some pretty “Dwo-,” meaning “two,” gave “kw” is linguistic code for the “qu” unsavory company. The root is rise to “two,” “twelve,” “twice,” sound in “quick.” “per-,” meaning to “distribute,” “twenty,” “twig,” “duet,” and Turning to words of special “hand over,” and “sell.” This led to “between,” but also “biscuit.” “Beef” interest to readers of this column, such perfectly respectable words as and “cow” are related, not only consider “translate.” Most know that “price,” “precious,” and “praise.” semantically, but also etymologically. it derives from roots meaning And also to “pornography.” n Other relatives are “butter,” “across” (“trans-”) and to “bring” or

April 24-26, 2015 Information and Contacts International Medical Interpreters Association Submit items for future columns via e-mail to [email protected]. Discussions of the translation of International Congress humor and examples thereof are preferred, but humorous anecdotes about translators, translations, and Rockville, MD mistranslations are also welcome. Include copyright information and permission if relevant. Upcoming www.imiaweb.org/conferences

34 The ATA Chronicle n February 2015 Time toPlan!

American Translators Association

56th Annual Conference

November 4–7, 2015

Hyatt Regency Miami Miami • Florida Market leading software for translation professionals

SDL Language Solutions offer a unique language technology platform

From translation memory productivity tools for the individual translator to project management software for translator teams, from translation management solutions to cloud-based machine translation for enterprises and LSPs. You are not just investing in a market-leading translation productivity tool when you buy SDL Trados Studio, you are investing in a CAT tool that integrates with the full SDL language technology platform including the new innovative Language Cloud.

Find out more: www.translationzone.com or www.sdl.com

SDL Language Cloud Meet the new Customer Language Cloud machine translation is a great Experience Team! way for translators to leverage secure, high- quality machine translation for their post-editing Our team of dedicated experts are on hand needs. Accessible directly from within the Studio to answer your questions and help you with 2014 interface. SDL Trados Studio. Chat with the team on Take advantage of the 30-day free trial or choose a bit.ly/SDLChat and discover how easy it is package that suits your needs. to get started. www.languagecloud.sdl.com/translators

Follow us on twitter @sdltrados, YouTube “SDL Trados” or LinkedIn “SDL Trados Group”.