The challenges of localisation in translations into Arabic (part 2)

We have already discussed some aspects related to localisation when it comes to translations into Arabic > here is the first part of the article.

Let’s now look at some other aspects:

• numerals and symbols
• technical and scientific terminology
• cultural aspects and linguistic sensitivities

Numerals and symbols

Western Arabic numerals (123456) are used in many contexts, but in some regions Eastern Arabic numerals, also known as Indian numerals, are used (١٢٣٤٥٦), and this can affect the usability of a digital interface.

Let’s look at a practical example. A fitness app that displays a person’s weight in kilograms must consider whether to display ‘75 kg’ as ‘٧٥ كجم’ or ‘75 كجم’ depending on the target market.

Moreover, in Arabic there is the dual in addition to singular and plural.

Consequently, from a linguistic point of view, the ideal would be to translate ‘2 units’ as ‘وحدتين’, even if someone who doesn’t know Arabic might object the correctness of the translation because the number 2 doesn’t appear.

Arabic uses the metric system, but in some Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, some imperial units such as gallons for fuel are still in use.

Technical and scientific terminology

Another aspect is technical and scientific terminology.

Some terms don’t have a direct equivalent in Arabic or are expressed through transliteration (i.e. when a word is written with the letters of another alphabet, without being translated).

In the IT sector, for example, the term ‘server’ can be translated as ‘الخادوم’, but many professionals prefer the transliteration ‘سيرفر’ because it is more recognisable in the technical context.

The use of transliterated/Arabic-like terms may be due to several factors. For example, it makes it feel trendier or is simply less tiring than finding the equivalent in one’s own language.

In addition, there is no single body that regulates the use of terminology for the entire Arab world. Each country has its own.

Cultural aspects and linguistic sensitivities

Some expressions, images or symbols may have negative connotations or may not be suitable for an Arab audience.

This applies to certain foods, clothing or cultural concepts that may need to be adapted to avoid misunderstandings/offence.

A company that sells sportswear must be careful with its advertising images: an ad with women wearing clothing that does not respect the rules of modesty may not be well received in some Arab countries.

Or again, thinking about food, pork is considered impure in Islam, so any reference to this animal or its derivatives would be inappropriate in an Arab context. Similarly for alcoholic beverages: alcohol is forbidden in Islam, so any reference to alcoholic beverages would be inappropriate.

An advertisement showing people eating pork or drinking alcohol would be ineffective and offensive in an Arab context.

It is also important to pay attention to the use of colours, since some colours have different meanings.

For example, if you want to communicate a sense of trust and reliability, blue might be a good choice.

If you want to communicate energy and dynamism, green might be more appropriate.

Indeed, while in many Western cultures green is associated with nature, luck and hope, in the Arab world it can be linked to Islam and paradise. It is a colour often used in the flags of Arab countries and in religious contexts.

In some Arab cultures, white – not black – is worn during mourning.

CLICK HERE AND READ THE FIRST PART OF THE ARTICLE:

The challenges of localisation in translations into Arabic (part 1)

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