Language translation is a really complex task and a lot of individuals and enterprises as well don't know how complex it is to make a high quality translation. Translating a message from one language into another needs the translator to totally appreciate the message in the source contents. This initial step is vital during the translation process. Expert translators don't interpret word for word as it would lead to an exceedingly unskillfully worded text and local speakers would notice the text was not originally drafted in their local language. As an alternative expert translators first spend a while to sound right of the message of the source document as totally as practical and then hone in on conveying the message in another language. The conversion of the meaning encoded in written words, and not conversion of just the words, is at the center of high quality translation. In brief the translator first digest the message from written source content, understands the message, converts it to the target language and encodes it in that target language's words utilizing the acceptable vocabulary and tone. Additionally, the translator frequently needs to be creative during the translation process as not all texts, words, and phrases have its equivalents in the target language. This isn't only because of the different language structures and grammar rules, but in addition to the cultural differences between states.

There was a time when sending a message across the world meant months of waiting as a piece of paper was carried by horseback or ship. Now, basic technology found in homes across the world and carried in our pockets allows us to instantly communicate to the far-flung corners of the earth. This astonishing technological advance comes with the pitfall that, while we might be able to send the messages, the language barrier can prevent them from being understood. Fortunately, online translation software allows everyday users to translate their chat messages and emails without learning an entirely new language.

The process of online translation is relatively simple. A program like Yahoo's Babel Fish provides you with a small window into which you paste your text. You select the language you want to translate into and the program gives you a translated version. Of course, while this is useful for translating something like an email, much of communication happens in real time. What if you want to chat on Facebook with someone in Germany that speaks very little English? That's where a program like Ortsbo really shines.

Although the number of people who speak the English language is constantly growing, it is never going to be completely universal. As such, when you are travelling to a foreign country, it is useful to take precautions to allow local people to understand you and vice versa. In the past, the communication barrier was eliminated using grammar and vocabulary books, or relying on a friend who spoke the language. However, with the technological explosion in the modern era, the world has become smaller, and along with it communication has become easier and more mobile. In particular, smartphones can now download translation apps, many of them offered free of charge. The question is, are these apps as useful as they claim?

Firstly, it is important to establish why, when travelling, one should opt for a free app rather than a paid one. The simplest response to this query is that with so many free applications out there, why pay for one! Additionally, the everyday person travels for short intervals, approximately a week or two, and as such, does not require long time use of translation applications. In the case of a person relocating to a region where they do not know the language, a translation app will not suffice.