> Languages > French Translations

There are no particular issues or difficulties with translations between French and English, either for translations into French from English, or translations into English from French.

French is spoken in some 35 countries, and there are reasonably significant differences in written French across the various regions, primarily as regards vocabulary usage.

Nevertheless for most types of text we translate, a single “European French” translation, based on the French of France, would be appropriate for most target markets.

Care does however need to be taken with texts using casual or colloquial language, and particularly marketing and advertising material. In these cases it is often advisable to use a translator from the particular country the French translation is to be used in.

This is particularly so for Canada, as Canadian French is noticeably different from European French, and Canadians strongly prefer their own version of the language and respond much more favourably to it. Thus for certain types of text for Canada it is important to ensure the translator is French Canadian, or if there is an existing European French version, to edit this for Canadian usage.

French Typesetting

French can be typeset as raw text in all major graphic design programs, and there are no particular difficulties involved in typesetting French, only occasionally space issues as French translations can often be 10-15% longer than the original English text.

French involves the same font selection and layout considerations as apply for English artwork. If we are working with an existing English graphic design file, the same fonts can almost always be used for the French translation. However hyphenation, if used, must of course follow French and not English rules.

The International Language Company Advantage:

The Best Translators

We use only experienced, professionally qualified French translators with a proven track record of consistent professional-quality work.

Quality Assurance

All translations undergo full checking and proofing procedures to ensure accuracy and eliminate ‘human error’. All typesetting is double checked and subject to translator sign off before delivery.

Confidentiality

Full confidentiality of all material is guaranteed at all times.

Experience!

We have over 18 years experience translating and typesetting all types of materials in over 80 languages.