7 Critical Skills Any Great Interpreter Has Mastered

Here at Affordable Languages we’ve worked with numerous interpreters.  Over time we’ve identified the core skills that make a great interpreter.  Here they are: Punctuality: This one is pretty straightforward, so I don’t really need to get into too many details. A good interpreter will show early, at the right place, ready to begin interpreting […]


5 Factors Affecting Translation Cost You May Not Know

The Question: How much will my translation cost? The Answer: It depends! Not all translation projects are created equal. Translation projects can range from simple documents to medical consent forms to localizing entire websites. In general, the following 5 factors play the largest roles in determining the overall price of a translation project: 1.    Language […]


Importance of Using Qualified Medical Interpreters

I recently came across an article regarding the use of interpreters in the medical field and its impact on the patients’ well being. Sometimes when resources are not available or when medical providers are not aware of the services provided by their institutions, there is a misconception that anyone who is bilingual can render a […]


Going Global? Business Translation Services You May Need

Is your company poised to leap into overseas markets? From the acquisition of weakened companies to selling products overseas, there are many pathways to international business, and American companies are leaping at the chance to “go global.” For instance,ABC News has reported on the uptick in American-made products being exported overseas. As ABC writer Sharyn Alfonsi […]


Why Medical Interpreting Shouldn’t Be Left to Family Members

There’s no question that interpreting a medical condition correctly is essential for the proper diagnosis and treatment of a patient. No family member wants to see a loved one misdiagnosed or improperly treated. Without a qualified medical interpreter available, families often resort to using relatives who are fluent or semi-fluent in English to help interpret […]


Translation in Education: Bridging the Gap to Make a Connection

Few people realize how difficult it is for parents to stay current with school updates when English is not the primary language spoken at home. Children are naturally adept at picking up new languages, but parents, on the other hand, need to stay informed in their target language. Google translate and similar products can do […]


How To Say ‘Cool’ In Other Languages

Sometimes, taking a brief look at customs and traditions around the world is just enough to make you realize how little you know about the world. (Or if you’re well-traveled, how much you know!) And other times, it makes you realize how similar we all really are. This time, we took a look at American […]


Different Languages, Different Alphabets

Here’s a sight you might be familiar with: alphabet magnets!   English Alphabet, Courtesy: james.swenson13   However, did you know that the word “alphabet” is derived from Greek? It comes from the first two letters in their language “alpha” and “beta.”   Ancient Greek alphabet, Courtesy: GeoNando   The first two letters may look familiar […]


Types of Professional Interpreters and What They Do

The need for professional interpreters is growing exponentially in today’s global marketplace. Whether you are a business owner who needs to speak with international investors, a clinician in an emergency room or urgent care setting, or an attorney who needs to communicate with witnesses who are not native English speakers, professional interpreters are an essential […]


4 Key Skills of a Sign Language Interpreter

One might think that all it takes to be a sign language interpreter is the ability to sign. But what most people don’t realize is that American Sign Language (ASL) is a language all its own – not just a visual interpretation of English. Its grammar structure is different, and there are elements other than the […]