In today’s world, the topic of the ‘native speaker’ has been fiercely debated among scholars and academics. Discussions around this term tend to fail to find a specific definition. There seem to be different interpretations and points of view within the applied linguistics field and how these varying labels towards this term impact people’s perceptions.
Zhang (2021) emphasises that the expression ‘native speaker’ should neither be wholly accepted nor refused as the reality of ‘native speaker’ fluctuates across distinct linguistic levels. To be more precise, being a native speaker is commonly seen as the conclusive attainment of a language form within human progress and everyone can be a native speaker of a determined language. However, language is a complex dynamic, constantly developing, and often influenced by social processes such as globalisation, emigration, and colonisation among other factors (Zhang, 2021). Therefore, it is hypothesised that linguistic forms are mercurial by nature, constantly evolving and changing, casting doubt on any firm idea of a ’native speaker’.
The definition of the native speaker may divide people into different classes and perhaps create a sort of label, positioning the native speaker as one who is exclusively capable of acquiring a language versus a non-native speaker counterpart (Davies, 2004). Thus, this may imply that one cannot achieve the native language level or proficiency. It is considered that the term native speaker generates a possible grouping and from a sociolinguistic point of view infers authority, language confidence, and command over the specific related language (Davies, 2004). This could exclude those without qualifications from being considered as a native speaker. The question at the core of this hotly discussed debate may be what is the specific reason for someone who has extensively studied and researched the language for several years to not be classified as a native speaker and what exactly hinders them from being one.
Within the translation sector, a translator is usually expected to translate into their first language. Indeed, it is universally believed that translators should solely translate into their mother tongue, however, this appears to be a distortion of a more complex issue.
While native fluency is undoubtedly valuable, the skills and competencies of a translator are equally crucial for delivering an accurate and nuanced translation. Although this may be considered an important factor in producing an accurate translation, a translator's skills and language competencies are equally essential in establishing their expertise for a specific assignment. In some circumstances, a translator's first language can degenerate relative to their other language.
For instance, throughout my University studies, when translating from French into English I tended to outperform in comparison to translating into my first language. This has made me reflect on how studying another language for a number of years may have impacted my first language vocabulary, stylistic preferences, and naturalness. Therefore, one may argue that this is a concrete example that in these circumstances the second language may have prevailed over their first language and, to a certain degree, be more accurate and detailed.
Pokorn (2004) further stresses that a non native speaker may have acquired not only an in-depth linguistic knowledge but also a comprehensive understanding of the second language adopted.
Additionally, subject-matter expertise is critical in translation. Linguistic competence in the source language can sometimes surpass native-level proficiency in a translator’s first language. As such, the most qualified translators are those with a high degree of technical proficiency, not necessarily those who grew up speaking the target language. This is why many translation companies, including Translationz, place emphasis on qualifications and technical expertise, rather than focusing solely on whether someone is a native speaker of their target language.
To further corroborate, Translationz, an ISO 17100-certified company, follows stringent processes and procedures to ensure high translation standards. ISO 17100 is an international standard that sets requirements for all aspects of the translation workflow. Whilst ISO 17100 (2015) certification sets requirements for translators to show linguistic and textual competence in source and target language as well as cultural awareness, it does not expressly require that translators must translate into their native tongue.
Translationz employs a comprehensive and meticulous process for evaluating all translation requests to ensure the best possible translator is assigned to each project. This involves assessing multiple factors beyond simply matching the language pair. First, the specific nature of the source material is carefully reviewed, taking into account the subject matter, complexity, and any specialised terminology that may be required. For example, legal, medical, or technical documents require translators with deep expertise in those fields to ensure accuracy and precision.
Once the document has been analysed, Translationz considers the linguistic qualifications, technical knowledge, and cultural understanding of its team of certified translators. Each translator's professional background, industry certifications, and prior experience with similar projects are taken into account. In cases where specific terminology is key, such as legal or medical jargon, translators with relevant domain expertise are prioritised. This ensures that the translation is not only linguistically accurate but also contextually and culturally appropriate.
Moreover, Translationz places a strong emphasis on ensuring the translator’s familiarity with any local dialects or regional variations in language usage, which can be critical for ensuring the translation resonates with the target audience. Depending on the project’s scope, Translationz project manager may also involve a second translator and/or a subject-matter expert to review the work for added quality control.
Finally, timelines, client requirements, and any specific preferences regarding the tone, style, or format are considered, ensuring that the translator selected is well-equipped to meet all project goals. Through this detailed, multi-step approach, Translationz ensures the highest quality translations tailored to the precise needs of each client.
References Davies, A. (2004). The native speaker in applied linguistics (A. Davies & C. Elder, Eds.). The Handbook of Applied Linguistics, pp. (431-450). 3 International Standard ISO 17100:2015 (2015). Translation services. Requirements for Translation Services. Password Europe, 1st edition, pp. (1-19). Medium (2023). Native vs Non-Native Translators: Pros and Cons. (Accessed on: 08 of August 2024) available at: https://medium.com/transly/native-or-non-native-translator-potentials-and-pitfalls-942e26bb446f Pokorn, N.K. (2004). Challenging the myth of Native Speakers competence in translation theory. Claims, Changes, and Challenges in Translation Studies, pp. (113-124). Zhang, H. (2021). The term of ‘Native-Speaker’: Myth or Reality? Acceptable or problematic. Nuanced Garbling, pp. (1-6).
Written by Elise Di Mario
Client Services Representative – Brisbane Office
Hi! My name is Elisa Di Mario. I may have been born in Italy, but I have always found myself looking out at the rest of the world and wanting to be part of it. So, that is just a small factor in how I ended up here in Australia where I now live. Where it concerns translation, it may as well have been as soon as I learned to speak that I nurtured a powerful curiosity in language; be it spoken or written. In service of this passion, I spent long, happy years studying in the United Kingdom where I would also claim my Master’s Degree in Translation Studies. I enjoy translating as a subtitler for various Ted Talks in my own time and I have found a home away from home at Translationz where I work in their Client Services department.