Functions and Language Quality of Website Text Localized for the Lithuanian Market

Abstract

Localization of websites brings new aspects into translation studies such as dealing with hypertext and multimedia and makes a translator cope with cultural differences. Website localization can be defined as the process of modifying a website for a specific locale. The examination of the linguistic elements in the chosen multinational “Olympus”, “Fujifilm”, “Nikon”, “Kodak” and “Canon” websites reveals the change of translation paradigm, cultural transposition and application of intercultural communication, the choice of extralinguistic and linguistic measures and the focus to the recipient, depending on its status, expectations, communicated goals and standards. The examined websites seek to present the companies. By localized versions it is attempted to introduce, inform, influence and establish a contact with the recipient using aesthetic, appealing and functional text functions. Text analysis suggests that the language expresses an aesthetic function in the international companies’ websites for the Lithuanian market. It helps to convey different semantic style figures (metaphors, comparisons, etc.). Dominant criterion of the localized texts is the communicative function where the quality of the text is of utmost importance. Analysis of language quality has revealed an urgent problem of qualification of translators and localization specialists. Vocabulary, morphology, syntax and style mistakes of localized texts in the Lithuanian language imply the lack of professionalism, knowledge of language. Localization of websites affects the recipient. Unprofessional localization can cause disinterest in the offered products, discourage a dialogue with the recipient, and also affect one’s speech.

http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.sal.0.19.946