Translation. Transcreation. Copywriting. What’s the difference?
Translation. Transcreation. Copywriting. How do they differ? Which do you need? What on earth is transcreation anyway? It’s really just a question of how creative I need to be, how much I need to depart from the original text for your message to land the same in English as in Spanish. Here’s a rough guide to the differences;
What is Translation?
Translations stay closer to the original, saying pretty much the same thing in a different language.
I may move sentences around to ensure the English version flows as naturally as the Spanish but the message doesn’t differ greatly.
What is Transcreation?
Transcreation
Transcreation uses more creative licence. It focuses more on matching the effect on the reader than the specific message.
Does the average reader of your English content know where Aragon or Asturias is? Are they seeking familiarity or difference?
To resonate with English speakers, I tailor content to their knowledge of Spain and Spanish culture, and to their motivations for travel. As I transcreate, I spot and bridge knowledge gaps and cultural differences that can cloud your message.
What is Copywriting?
Copywriting
Crafting a whole new English text, bespoke to your new readers.
A great way to fill in knowledge gaps, new content like extra blog posts or guides in English can empower them with all the geographical, cultural or culinary details they need to understand and choose your product or service.
Help! Which Service do I need?
Not sure? Don’t worry, I tailor my approach to each project. Just drop me a line and we’ll talk it through which is right for yours.
Got some English content you’re not sure about? My ‘Check and Edit’ service might be just what you need to humanify an AI generated text or smooth out content written by a non native speaker.