International Translation Day is celebrated on September 30 and we are here to help you understand its significance without getting lost in translation. Translators are what binds different worlds together. The domain of translation includes a profusion of sub-branches such as translation of a literary work, professional translation, interpretation, and terminology, e.t.c. International Translation Day aims to pay tribute to the work of language professionals all around the world.
History of International Translation Day
Can you imagine a world without translators? Imagine you could never read your favorite books, understand foreign cinematic masterpieces, or enjoy that eccentric European T.V. series. A world without translators would mean a world where the great literary works of Homer’s “Iliad” would not be known, Euclid’s mathematical achievements would have remained hidden and most importantly, the world of diplomacy would not exist.
Translators are an indispensable part of society and play an important role in bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding, and cooperation, helping interpersonal communication, preserving clarity, and ensuring a positive climate and productiveness in international public discourse.
In 1953, the International Federation of Translators started International Translation Day. The day is celebrated annually on September 30, which is the day of the feast of St. Jerome, the Bible translator, who is seen as the patron saint of translators. St. Jerome was a priest from Northeast Italy who is known for translating the Bible into Latin from Greek manuscripts of the New Testament.
This day pays tribute to the work of translators who help wipe out our differences by breaking down the language barriers. International Translation Day helps promote cultural heritage and mutual respect in our changing world.
As globalization increases, the work of translators has become integral to sustain the structures and processes of trade markets. Translators sit at the junction point that impacts the development of business, science, medicine, technology, politics, and a host of other areas.
This day provides us with an opportunity to appreciate the work of translators, interpreters, and others in the language service industry.
International Translation Day timeline
The first official celebration of International Translation Day takes place.
30 September is declared as International Translation Day by the United Nations General Assembly.
The American Translators Association (ATA) starts celebrating International Translation Day.
ATA releases a video depicting "A Day in the Life of a Translator or Interpreter.”
International Translation Day FAQs
How common is bilingualism?
Bilingualism is the ability to use two languages in everyday life. It is very common and is on the rise in many parts of the world, with one in three people being bilingual or multilingual.
How do you respond when someone says ‘bonjour’?
You can respond with ‘bonjour’ or say ‘enchanté(e)’, which means “pleased to meet you.”
Which country has only one official language?
Countries that have only one official language include Albania, France, Germany, and Lithuania.
International Translation Day Activities
Participate in events
This day is celebrated with a series of dedicated events, seminars, and symposiums across the world. You can take part in these events and learn about the work of translators.
Learn a language
Use this opportunity to learn a new language to catch a glimpse into the world of translators. If learning a language seems like too much work, try learning a few phrases from a foreign language and use them next time you are trying to impress someone.
Have a laugh
Where some translations bring about world peace, there are a few others that bring lots of laughter. Search for funny translations on Google and spend this day chuckling at some of the funniest translations you will ever come across.
5 Interesting Facts About Translation
World’s most translated book
The world’s most translated book is the Bible.
Mistranslation lead to the Hiroshima atomic bombings
A misinterpretation of the word ‘mokusatsu’ led to the death of thousands of people.
Translation is a $40 billion industry
An estimated 300,000 professional translators work in the world today.
The world’s most translated website
The world’s most translated website is the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ homepage.
Words translated
Translators can translate around 520,000 words per year.
Why We Love International Translation Day
It raises awareness
International Translation Day draws attention to the work of translators, interpreters, and others in the language service industry. Translators have the important task of bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding and cooperation, contributing to development, and maintaining diplomatic relations.
It pays tribute to translators
This day pays tribute to the work of translators and the interpreters who break down language barriers and help bring societies together. They allow us a chance to come closer and learn from each other, which benefits society as a whole.
It promotes cultural heritage
International Translation Day aims to promote cultural heritage and mutual respect throughout the world. Thus, it helps to bring nations together, contributing to development, and strengthening world peace and security.
International Translation Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 30 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 30 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 30 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 30 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 30 | Saturday |
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