I spent a lot of time interpreting between healthcare professionals and sick teenagers while I was in Peru, and was delighted by one of the doctors who took the time to carefully and calmly explain everything to his patients in excellent, formal English. But it was so hard to keep a straight face in that serious environment when he insisted on referring to “poo poo” and “pee pee” tests! Why had he chosen to use these words instead of the more literal translation of the formal Spanish terms he used? Maybe he thought they were more comforting to his patients… but why these words only?!
It reminded me how difficult it is to ensure you have the correct grasp on slang and especially swear words in a second language. And is it just me, or have you ever noticed how it’s always, ALWAYS funny (and certainly never shocking) when a speaker of English as a second language swears?!
About the author
Sarah Dillon is a qualified, accredited and experienced professional translator originally from Co. Clare in Ireland. She specialises in producing English-language texts that don't "sound" like translations, ensuring her clients' message has the desired impact in their overseas market. She is based in Brisbane, Australia and works with corporate clients, small businesses, agencies and nonprofit organisations all over the world. In her spare time, Sarah is also Marketing Director of eCPD Webinars.
Sarah Dillon has written 252 posts for There's Something About Translation.
