Why is Italian Such and Important Language for Industry and Commerce

Having 58 million inhabitants, Italy is increasingly important in the EU and the world. With roughly the same total and per capita output as France and the UK, Italy has recently undergone reforms to strengthen it economically. Due to emigration, the Italian language has reached every corner of the world and is one of the ten most studied languages in the US and Japan.

Consider:

• Italian is spoken by 66 million people in Italy, France, Switzerland, San Marino, the US, Brazil, Argentina, Malta, Somalia and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Italian is one of the twenty official languages of the EU.
• Thirty million tourists visit Italy every year.
• Italy is a large global import and export market.

Why do we need English to Italian translations?

According to a recent EU survey, only 28% of Italians can speak and read English. Clearly, the lingua franca in Italy is still Italian. Anyone who wishes to work and do business in Italy must provide clear and precise English to Italian translations. Outside of Italy, English to Italian translations make it clear who your target audience is and show respect for their native language. 

Are there different dialects of Italian?

Italian is known for its numerous dialects. In Italy, many young people have abandoned their region's dialect, although the older generations keep tradition alive. An English Italian translator, however, seldom deals with dialects and does not need speak them to produce a quality Italian translation. Most dialects are only spoken and, apart from literary works, rarely appear in print.

Outside of Italy, these dialects are prevalent and standard Italian is rarely spoken, especially in Argentina and the US. While an English Italian translator may be able to understand a few words, these dialects are mostly incomprehensible to non-natives.