Jean-François is an expert French linguist and translator with 22 years of experience. Now based in New York, Jean-François was born in France and lived in Dublin before moving to the US. He has worked with agencies and been a team lead on localization projects, and he transitioned into working as a freelancer translator about 16 years ago. Jean-François will be discussing the challenges of translating French into English and what we should know when localizing for the French-speaking audience.

Jump into the Episode
[02:27 ] About Jean-François and his translation background.

[03:24 ] Jean-François’ past experiences with Smartling and his appearance in the book ‘Move the World with Words.’

[05:00 ] A brief introduction to the French language and its prevalence.

[05:25 ] The differences between Canadian French and traditional French.

[06:57 ] What a typical workday and translation process looks like for Jean-François.

[07:30 ] How starting his day by running has allowed for more thinking time before the day truly starts.

[08:45 ] Why being a translator is more than just speaking multiple languages.

[09:20 ] The rewards of seeing how your translation helps others.

[10:43 ] Some of the biggest challenges when translating English to French.

[11:40 ] Why context is key in translation.

[13:00 ] Some words that are challenging to translate.

[14:50 ] Improving inclusivity in French translation.

[16:55 ] The biggest cultural differences when targeting a French-speaking audience.

[19:25 ] What Jean-François would ask project managers to do to make his translating jobs more efficient.

[21:00 ] Why translating word for word loses meaning.

[21:50 ] Jean-François’ final thoughts translating English <> French.

Resources and links:

• Jean-François on LinkedIn
• Smartling Website