Translation isn’t just about swapping words, it’s about accuracy, context, and cultural relevance. While many translation errors are easy to catch, some slip under the radar and can have surprising consequences. Here are a few of the most common pitfalls:

Numbers
It’s easy to think numbers are universal, but small mistakes can have big impacts. A misplaced digit or decimal could mean you owe $1,010.00 instead of $1.01. Translators must stay alert even with simple figures.

Proper Names
Country names, product names, and even people’s names can vary depending on language and region. For example, translating ‘Georgia’ could mean the US state or the country in the Caucasus. Context is everything.

Phone Numbers
Not all numbers work across borders. A toll-free 1-800 number in the US might not connect from abroad. Localization includes ensuring that contact details make sense for each audience.

Avoiding these translation errors requires more than just fluency, it demands cultural and contextual awareness. Whether you’re translating a marketing campaign, user manual, or customer service contact, accuracy matters.