English to Canadian French translation is different from English to European French translation. Therefore, it’s important when translating your content to a specific market to ensure that it’s as authentic as possible. And, is as targeted as possible. In addition, the translation needs to contain all of the nuances and regional qualities. So, your target audience will resonate with your content in the best way.
Why is translating your content from English to French (Canada) different from English to French (France) translation?
Canadian French is different from French used in Europe. Similarly, they share the same language, but many intricacies and nuances make them sound and translate differently. In comparison, the two languages have some differences in pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar. For example, here are some of the differences:
- Different words have different meanings in both variations of French.
- English: Appointment
- French (Canada): Appointement
- French (France): Rendez-vous
- Canadian French uses the informal form a lot more. Whereas, European French uses it less.
For example, the word “tu” (“you” informal) is used in more situations in Canadian French than European French. In comparison, the more formal version “vous” (“you” formal) is.
- Canadian French uses an older pronunciation than European French.
The differences make a drastic impact on the translation from English to either form of the French language. In addition, there are many cultural and religious aspects that may impact the localization of your content. As well as regional dialects.
So, hiring a native French-Canadian translator is of great importance when you’re looking to accurately localize your content. As well as finding a translator for a specific region, if you are going after that market. Doing so will provide your audience with an accurate translation.
Why is English to Canadian French translation beneficial to your content?
Over 10 million Canadians speak French, with 22% of people in Canada declaring French to be their mother language. That’s a large audience that your content could reach. Furthermore, there are parts of Canada, where French is their native language.
If you’re looking to take your video content to Canada, it’s important to have it translated into French, as so many speak it. And, the better quality and more natural the translation, the better received your content will be. So, it’s a win-win situation for your target audience and you.
How can I translate video content to Canadian French?
There are a few options to choose from when deciding to translate your content. Of course, it depends on your industry, type of content, and goals for your global strategy.
English to French Canadian Voiceover
- Voice-over is a great option for many different types of videos. Firstly, it’s cheaper than dubbing. And, provides your video with a voice translation. While it is less noticeable than subtitles, the viewer is able to listen to the French voiceover, rather than reading.
- There are many styles of voiceovers that can change the way your content is translated. Such as UN-Style or Narration.
- However, in some cases, some types of content benefit from dubbing rather than voiceover translation. For example, TV series, films, or corporate training videos, etc.
- For more information about this translation method, see our guide to voiceover translation.
English to French Canadian Dubbing
- Dubbing is the most expensive option for translating your video. However, it is the least noticeable to the audience. Lip-sync dubbed videos match the translated audio closely to the lip movements of the on-screen characters. So, this method is perfect for those who want the audio translation and video to match as closely as possible.
- For more information about this translation method, see our guide to dubbing.
English to French Canadian Subtitles
- Subtitles are a great option if you’re looking to keep the price lower than voice dubbing and voiceover translation. Whilst the audience does have to read the subtitles, it’s important to ensure that they aren’t distracting for your specific type of content.
- For example, you wouldn’t be able to add subtitles for a video intended for young children, as they might not be able to read, and it’s distracting.
- For more information about this translation method, see our guide to subtitling.
From these options, you have many ways to translate your video from English to Canadian French. However, identifying the best option for your unique content is where it could get slightly more complicated. So, let’s look at your options for translation, and the best way to help you choose the right method.
How to Find an English to French Canadian Translator or company
So, if you have made the decision to target a French-Canadian speaking audience, your next step is choosing who will do the translation. You have two options, hiring a freelance translator or going through a localization/translation company. In fact, both options have pros and cons. However, the right solution will depend on your needs and content.
Freelance Translators
Usually, freelance translators are self-employed. However, there are many translation agencies you can go through to hire a freelancer.
Although a freelance translator will be cheaper than going through a services company, the responsibility is yours. Inevitably, you will responsible to check the quality of the translation. If you do decide to use this option, it’s important that the freelancer you hire understands the market, and provides an accurate English to French Canadian translation. So, there are more risks with this type of translation. Not to mention, the possibility that you will have to hire another freelancer/post-production company to add the translation to the video (depending on the method you choose).
Translation/Localization company
If you do decide to work with a language service provider (LSP), there is a level of quality that can’t be beaten with a freelance translator. A translation company will work with you to establish the best method of translation for your content, and guide you through the process, without much effort on your part.
Translation and localization companies are well-versed in taking content to new markets, and understand the importance of accuracy and quality, when it comes down to video translation. When working with a company, they vet their native-speaking translators, to ensure the highest-quality. So, there’s no issues with the end-result.
Whichever option you choose to go with, make sure that you’re getting a human translation, rather than machine or program translation. A natural adaptation of your original content will be the best received.
In conclusion – English to French Canadian Translation
If you’re looking to maximize your content and reach a new audience, Canada is a great place to do so. Now, you have the right idea about approaching French-Canadian translation for your content. And, whilst European French and Candian French are two different languages, it’s important to realize and respect their differences. As a result, your content will be appreciated more when you localize it correctly and specifically. No matter the type of content; an audiobook, a commercial spot, corporate training video etc, it’s important that it sounds as good as the original.
