When it comes to translating important documents, a single mistake can lead to delays, rejections, or even legal consequences. Whether you’re handling immigration paperwork, legal contracts, or business proposals, accuracy is everything.
At PolyglotDocs, we’ve seen it all. Here are the top 10 common mistakes people make when translating documents — and how to avoid them.
While tools like Google Translate are useful for getting the gist, they’re not reliable for official use. These platforms can’t guarantee accuracy or certification — and often misinterpret context.
Solution: Always use a certified translation service for legal, academic, or immigration documents.
When you work with PolyglotDocs, every certified translation:
Language is more than words — it’s culture. Translating literally without adapting for cultural differences can lead to confusion or offense.
Solution: Work with native-speaking translators who understand the local context.
Incorrect formatting can lead to document rejection, especially for legal or government submissions.
Solution: Use professionals who ensure format consistency, including headers, tables, and seals.
Literal translations often sound robotic or awkward and may completely miss the original meaning.
Solution: Choose services that focus on meaning and tone, not just word substitution.
Important stamps or handwritten notes are often skipped — which could invalidate the document.
Solution: Ensure all visible content on the document is professionally translated and certified.
Even experienced translators can make small errors. Skipping proofreading can result in typos or incorrect terminology.
Solution: Make sure your provider includes quality checks and proofreading as standard.
Blurry or low-resolution files make it hard to read, leading to delays or rejected translations.
Solution: Always submit clear, high-resolution scans of your documents.
Different countries and institutions have different rules for what qualifies as a certified translation.
Solution: Work with a team like PolyglotDocs that understands international compliance.
Legal terms don’t always have direct translations. A wrong term could lead to misinterpretation in court or official processes.
Solution: Use legal translation specialists for contracts, affidavits, or court documents.
Rush jobs often lead to errors — or cost more due to expedited fees.
Solution: Plan ahead and allow sufficient time for a thorough, high-quality translation.
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