Spanish Dialects

Q: What is the basic story of Spanish dialects?

Below are some of the basics on Spanish dialects. We can share more info if you’d like.

DIALECTS
There are 11 main dialects of Spanish: Neutral Spanish, Neutral Mexican Spanish, Cuban Spanish, Puerto Rican Spanish, Argentine Spanish, Castilian Spanish (Spain), Monterey-Brownsville Spanish, Chilean Spanish, Colombian Spanish, Venezuelan Spanish, Peruvian Spanish. The fact that there are so many dialects has the following impact upon localization:
- Words that are inoffensive in one dialect may offend in another, and
- Use of dialect may increase sales in a particular market.

NEUTRAL OR “GENERIC” SPANISH
There is (almost) a “neutral” Spanish. “Neutral” means that:
- The words are understood by all dialects
- The words do not offend other dialects

UNDERSTOOD BY ALL
It is possible to become quite “neutral” during translation. A few great translators have worked in or with so many countries that they acquire an understanding of vocabulary differences. Or, most reliably, a translation can be created by a specialist in “neutral” and then undergo Dialect Review to identify expressions or word usage which do not apply to other dialects. Removal of dialect expressions produces that which is commonly know as a “neutral translation.” If the material being translated is for general information, rather than advertising, and will cross several dialect frontiers, then “Neutral Spanish” is probably exactly what is needed.

But there are limitations to “neutral-ness”. In South America, most of Mexico and other countries, a “checking account” is called “cuenta corriente”. However, in many parts of the U.S., some parts of Mexico, and one or two other areas, “checking account” is “cuenta de cheques”. The “cheques-users” often do not even recognize the meaning of the expression “cuenta corriente”. Thus, although “cuenta corriente” is beyond any doubt the correct financial term, use of this expression alienates a segment of the population through confusion. Confusion - or vocabulary intimidation - will often affect sales.

Friday, February 27th, 2009 Script Translation