Translation + localization
Truly localize
your text
Converting from Japanese, Korean, or Chinese to English? Make it completely natural with expert translation and copywriting. No more worry about unskilled translators and machine translation.
What we do
From translation to localization
Translation + copywriting
We translate the following language pairs, followed by expert copywriting and editing. Where the source already says close to what you want the English to say, this is the quicker and more economical route.
- Japanese-to-English
- Chinese-to-English
- Korean-to-English
- Thai-to-English
Localize, glocalize
Unless you are translating only to understand, translation simply is not enough. Effective English is effective copywriting, written for the reader you actually want to reach.
- Websites
- Sales & marketing materials
- Press releases & other PR
Editing or proofreading
Even after a good translation, editing makes it shine. We can work with your translation, comparing it with the original, for truly effective text.
- Websites
- Sales & marketing materials
- Press releases & other PR
Language pairs
Four languages into English
Japanese → English
Our specialty, across subject areas
Korean → English
Sales and marketing
Chinese → English
Sales and marketing
Thai → English
Sales and marketing
We do not handle other language pairs, but for something short, such as a tagline, do feel free to ask.
Why localize
A direct translation moves nobody
Do you have a global website or business materials that started in a language other than English? Are they producing the outcomes you desire? If not, you are not alone. Many companies translate directly from their native language into English, use amateur copywriters, or, worse, put machine-generated translation in front of customers. At best this conveys information with no clear path for the reader’s next action. At worst it repels potential customers who think, “If they cannot communicate in English, how can I do business with them?”
We offer a solution: true localization. Translation is by skilled translators, followed by a combination of proofreading and expert English copywriting. The end result is native-level, highly attractive and understandable, outcome-oriented English. We have used these methods on numerous global companies, with a track record of success and customers who keep coming back.
90%
Repeat customers
4
Language pairs into English
How we work together
Five steps, no guesswork
1
Get the ball rolling
Contact us with details
Use the contact form or email to explain your needs.
2
Creating your plan
Get a reply, discuss your needs
You’ll get a quick response, and we’ll email or set up a video call to figure out your aims and budget.
3
Getting down to work
Now it’s time to work
The conditions depend on your project. We’ll get to work.
4
Working to completion
The job is finished, or we revise
All jobs are different, some bigger than others. We’ll clearly communicate the progress and work with you on editing and revision. If you have a kanban or other system we’ll use it, or we’ll suggest one.
5
Our door is open
You’ve got a friend
Get in touch with further needs, questions, or if you need some advice. Your success is our success.
In a hurry? Get in touch now.
Companies, NGOs, media agencies and research institutes
Words from our clients
What our clients say
“MacroLingo greatly increased the readability and impact of the CCPI website text. That’s essential because policy-makers and media read this influential report.”
Jan Burck
Senior Adviser, Climate Change Performance Index
“They translated and localized my presentation into English for an overseas pitch event. It’s rare to find people knowledgeable about medicine and psychology who also have a deep knowledge of culture.”
Yuichiro Niijima
CEO, xCura Inc.
“They’ve supported us with extensive language and PR skills that can’t be achieved by mere auto-translation. Service is prompt, with accurate understanding of our intentions.”
Naoyuki Masuda
COO, Morgenrot Inc.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about translation and localization
What languages do you work with?
Japanese-to-English, which is our specialty, plus Korean-to-English, Chinese-to-English and Thai-to-English. We do not handle other language pairs, but feel free to ask us for tips.
How much is it?
We consider the amount of research and the complexity of the job. We also offer discounts for larger projects and ongoing retainer contracts. Tell us what you have in mind and we will quote for it.
Can you translate our book?
We do not do large-scale document translation, such as books or manuals. Our translation is aimed at sales and marketing outcomes, and at communication across cultures, in completely natural, native English.
What items do you translate?
Anything related to sales and marketing: websites, press releases, blogs, and donor or internal communications. Please note that we do not translate specialized areas such as legal documents, technical instructions and medical documents.
What is localization?
Localization is an extra step beyond translation. Instead of translating word-for-word, we look into the meaning, the audience and the intent, then adjust the language so the tone and wording are right for your reader.
For example, if you are translating a Japanese website for a global audience, we use your Japanese as source material, then rewrite the translation based on your readers and your intent.
Contact
Let’s talk about your translation
Tell us what you are working on. We usually reply within one business day, from Osaka.
Office
6F-313 Osaka Center Building,
Kyutaro-machi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Japan
Response time
Within one business day (JST)
Prefer email? Write to contact@macrolingo.com