Like Frisian, Dutch, German, and Low German, English belongs to the West Germanic languages, a subgroup within the Indo-European languages. Due to colonialism, the influence of the United States, and the Internet, among other things, it has developed into a ‘lingua franca’ (common communication language) for large parts of the world.

English is the official language in (among others) Australia, Belize, New Zealand, and Nigeria, and one of the official languages in (among others) Canada, Ireland, South Africa, and Great Britain itself, because Cornish, Welsh, Scots, Scottish Gaelic, Ulster Scots, and Irish are also recognised languages. English is also one of the six official languages of the United Nations. But what about the United States of America? They do not have an official language! Incidentally, there are quite a few differences in the English that these English-speaking countries use; you can’t simply say English without specifying what country you want a translation for.

Bridge language

The history of English begins in the 5th century, when Anglo-Saxon settlers bring their dialects to the British Isles. Over time, these dialects mixed with, among other things, the Old Norse languages of the Vikings, and Norman loanwords and spelling rules. Even Greek, and especially Latin, had a great influence on the formation of English. Approximately 60% of the total English vocabulary can be traced back to Old French and Latin. That is why English is also called a bridge language between the Germanic and Roman languages.

In-country translators

As we mentioned above, English isn’t simply English. You cannot put a translator to work and tell them to translate a text into English – after all, should they use the British ‘colour’ or the American ‘color’, for instance? That is why we work with English translators who live and work in their country of origin, so-called in-country translators. Not only have they mastered the intended form of English, but they also understand the relevant cultural habits. Correctly addressing the target group is of great importance.

Top quality

Our translation agency is in possession of the highest achievable European quality standards for translation agencies: ISO 9001 and ISO 17100. This not only applies to us, but also to the translators who work for us; they have to meet the same high standards. We also offer you a lowest price guarantee and our 100% satisfaction guarantee. We are not satisfied until you are.