Translations| “The Task of the Translator”: Comparing the Views of the Client and the Translator

Authors

  • Hanna Risku Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria
  • Christina Pein-Weber Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria
  • Jelena Milosevic Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria

Keywords:

expectations, client–translator relationship, translation process, freelance translation, translation network, translation project management

Abstract

As a consequence of globalization and corporate restructuring processes, most translators are now freelance and generally work for multiple clients on a project basis.  The often remote and media-based cooperation can at times result in misunderstandings or dissatisfaction, which stem from the different expectations.  This paper examines the expectations such clients and translators have of each other and studies how their differing views shape the cooperation and communication process and, thus, influence the translation process and the translation as a whole.  In a case study, a translator and a client were interviewed regarding a specific translation assignment.  Six differences between the translator’s and the client’s preconceptions and expectations could be identified.

Author Biographies

Hanna Risku, Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria

Prof. Dr. Hanna Risku+43 360 380 2670Professor for Translation Studies  Department for Translation StudiesUniversity of Graz, Austria

Christina Pein-Weber, Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria

Graduate student +43 316 380-2681

Jelena Milosevic, Department of Translation Studies, University of Graz, Austria

Jelena Milosevic, BA, MA Graduate student+43 316 380-2681

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Published

2016-02-08

Issue

Vol. 10 (2016)

Section

Special Sections

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