Translate PO files with ease 

If you're struggling to understand how to translate PO files, this guide can help. In this blog post, we'll explore two common methods for translating PO files. We'll also highlight frequent mistakes to avoid and offer tips to streamline and improve your translation process.

Understanding PO, MO, and POT files 

Working with PO files does not require knowledge of MO or POT files. However, having a basic understanding of all three formats can be beneficial, as it helps improve the management of translations in applications that utilize PO files.

So, what are the key differences between these data formats? PO, MO, and POT files are all used in software localization, but each serves a unique purpose at a different stage in the localization process:

• POT (Portable Object Template) files are generated by extracting localization messages from an application's source code using specialized localization tools. These files serve as templates for translation.
• PO (Portable Object) files are created by copying and renaming a POT file. Translators use these files to provide translations for the extracted messages. Each language requires a separate PO file.
• MO (Machine Object) files are binary files generated by compiling PO files. These are intended for use by the application at runtime, allowing for efficient loading of translations.

Different approaches to translating PO files 

There are two common approaches to translating PO files. The first involves using a text editor that supports this file format, such as Notepad, Notepad++, or TextEdit. The second approach is to use specialized tools designed specifically for working with translation files.

If you're curious about the differences between text editors and specialized translation tools, here’s a breakdown:

Text editors are versatile programs that allow you to edit a variety of file formats. However, they are fairly generic and are not specifically optimized for translating PO files. Using a text editor to translate PO files requires a good understanding of the file structure and the ability to identify which sections need translation. Generally, text editors are best suited for users with some technical expertise.

In contrast, specialized translation tools are purpose-built for translation tasks and offer features such as translation memory, glossary management, screenshot integration, and other functionalities that enhance the translation experience. These tools not only streamline the translation process but also help reduce common errors, resulting in a more efficient and accurate workflow.

Common mistakes in PO file translation 

Below, we'll explore some of the most common errors encountered during manual PO file translation:

• Invalid file syntax: PO files have a unique structure, which can present editing challenges, especially for non-technical individuals such as translators. Common syntax errors include missing quotes and typos in essential keywords like msgid and msgstr.
• Invalid placeholders: Accidentally translating placeholders can cause application errors. It is crucial to distinguish between text that needs translation and text that must remain unchanged.
• Improper handling of plural forms: Languages have different pluralization rules. Using incorrect plural forms in translations can result in displaying an inaccurate translation.

Utilizing specialized translation tools not only automates PO file generation but also helps prevent accidental translation errors. Using these tools can effectively mitigate the risks mentioned above.

Automating the translation of PO files 

Automating routine tasks can bring significant benefits, especially in today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape. In this section, we will outline methods to help speed up and automate parts of the translation workflow by employing specialized localization tools.

Delegating translation tasks 

Most localization tools support project collaboration. With these platforms, you can set up a localization project, invite team members (such as managers, developers, and translators), and create translation tasks. Effective delegation allows you to focus on other critical aspects of product development while translators work efficiently. In addition to fostering collaboration, these tools help prevent common errors associated with manual editing of translation files, thereby accelerating the development cycle.

Below, you can see an example of an assigned translation task on Localizely.

Utilizing Machine Translation 

Localization tools often support machine translation, enabling fast translation of PO files, often within seconds. When combined with a post-translation review process, you can have ready-to-use translated PO files in a very short time.

Below is an example of utilizing machine translation on Localizely.

Placing translation orders 

If you prefer professional translation services, placing translation orders is a valuable option. You can specify the texts for translation, target languages, and the required tone (such as formal or friendly). These tasks can then be assigned to skilled professionals, who will complete them within a specified timeframe.

Below is an example of placing a translation order on Localizely.

Choosing the right PO translator tool for your project 

Finding the ideal tool for translating PO files isn’t always straightforward. The choice largely depends on your project’s needs, development workflow, team size, and similar factors. Generally, a simple guideline can be helpful. If you are working solo, are comfortable with the technical aspects of PO files, and just need to make minor corrections or update a few translations, a basic text editor is probably sufficient. However, if you need advanced features from your PO translator, such as built-in machine translation, translation memory, a glossary, the ability to collaborate with other team members, and ways to ensure consistency across multiple languages while keeping everything organized and easy to track, a specialized PO translator tool is a better choice.

Conclusion 

In this post, we briefly explained the process of translating PO files. We also discussed two common approaches for working with these files and introduced methods to significantly automate and accelerate the translation workflow using specialized localization tools.

Localizely is a localization platform that simplifies the translation of PO files. It offers a range of features designed to facilitate software localization tasks. Localizely includes a free plan that doesn’t require a credit card, making it ideal for smaller projects, and it is completely free for open-source projects.

Try Localizely for free.