Portuguese Translation for Businesses: Do’s, Don’ts and Must-Knows

Translating a document into Portuguese may seem simple for anyone who speaks the language. However, linguistic variations, cultural nuances and grammatical pitfalls can lead to a poorly managed translation that can quickly damage your professional image. In this article, you will learn about the benefits of translating your company’s content into Portuguese. You will also discover the unique traits of this language and common translation mistakes to avoid.

Why translating into Portuguese is strategic for businesses

Portuguese, the official language of nine countries including Brazil and Portugal, has approximately 260 million speakers across four continents, making it the sixth most spoken language in the world. Its influence extends well beyond these nations, with over 72 million native Portuguese speakers living abroad, notably in the United States, France, and Canada.

Therefore, translating into Portuguese is a strategic choice for businesses. It grants access to dynamic markets such as Latin America and Africa while also solidifying their presence in Europe. A good linguistic adaptation facilitates communication, strengthens the trust of target audiences and opens up new opportunities internationally.

The variants of Portuguese

Although the Brazilian and European variants of Portuguese are based on a common foundation, they have notable differences. For example, the Portuguese spoken in Portugal sounds more guttural, whereas it sounds more nasal and has a more musical intonation in Brazil.

Vocabulary also varies according to regions: the noun train is "comboio" in Portugal, but "trem" in Brazil. These distinctions are observed in many everyday words and can surprise those unfamiliar with the language.

Finally, there are also grammatical differences between the two variants, particularly in the use of personal pronouns. The Portuguese often use "tu" (you) for informal exchanges, while Brazilians prefer the formal "você", even in informal contexts. This nuance influences social interactions and verb conjugation.

Despite sharing a common language, Portuguese and Brazilians have developed distinct usage in vocabulary and grammar shaped by their respective histories and cultures. For effective communication, it is essential to choose the variant that is best suited to your target audience.

Key linguistic features of Portuguese to know

Portuguese is distinguished by its alphabet comprised of 23 letters, excluding K, W, and Y, which are reserved for foreign words. This aspect affects the way terms from other languages are transcribed and adapted.

Its pronunciation is marked by a great variety of vowels, where vowels change according to their position. Some consonants, such as r and s, can be doubled, altering their sound and giving a more pronounced tone.

Spelling has been harmonised by several reforms, but differences persist among the varieties spoken in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking countries. These variations lead to distinct spelling choices depending on the region.

Finally, the richness of the Portuguese language stems from the many linguistic influences it has integrated over the centuries. Words of Arabic, French, or Greek origin enrich its vocabulary, reflecting the cultural evolution that has shaped the language.

In order to produce an accurate translation, it is essential to master these unique linguistic features while also taking into account the underlying cultural nuances.

Examples of common mistakes

Translating into Portuguese requires particular attention to subtle linguistic nuances. A common mistake concerns pronunciation: the differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese, particularly in nasal sounds and intonations, can lead to misunderstandings.

Another pitfall to avoid is related to the use of countable nouns, particularly with paired objects. For example, in Portuguese, one says "um par de óculos" (a pair of glasses) rather than a literal translation such as "meus óculos” (my glasses), which may sound strange to native speakers.

The subjunctive mood also poses a problem. For example, many beginners commit errors such as "quer que eu faço” when the correct form is "quer que eu faça". The correct use of the subjunctive ensures grammatical correctness and fluidity.

Moreover, grammatical agreements are essential: failing to agree nouns and adjectives can alter the meaning of a sentence. Similarly, word-for-word translation without considering the context can compromise the accuracy of the message. For example, the expression "to be down in the dumps" cannot be translated literally into Portuguese, as the correct equivalent would be "estar na fossa" or "estar deprimido".

To ensure a idiomatic and natural translation, it is best to work with professionals or check your work with native speakers. Language is constantly evolving, and a proper linguistic adaptation of your content is essential for effective communication.

What criteria to follow when choosing a reliable Portuguese translator?

To obtain a high-quality translation, the translator must meet several criteria. Firstly, the translator must be a native speaker of the chosen Portuguese variant (European or Brazilian) to ensure optimal fluency and authenticity.

Their area of specialisation is also crucial: each field (legal, technical, medical, marketing) has specific terminology that a specialist will know how to use accurately, thus avoiding any errors of meaning.

The translator's experience also ensures the quality of the translation. It is preferable to work with a professional with solid references and several years of experience, a guarantee of their ability to handle complex texts.

Revision is a key step in the process. A second review by another professional linguist allows for spotting and correcting any inconsistencies, stylistic errors or spelling mistakes, thus ensuring an impeccable translation.

Finally, meeting deadlines is crucial, especially for professional projects requiring quick turnaround. A reliable translator will know how to balance speed and quality.

Partnering with a specialised translation agency ensures professional services tailored to your needs.

In conclusion, translating into Portuguese is a strategic opportunity for companies wishing to establish themselves in international markets. However, the specific qualities of the language and cultural differences require special attention. By avoiding common mistakes and choosing competent professionals, you ensure the success of your translation projects.

For quality translation services, do not hesitate to contact us as we are experts in the field.