[Phpwiki-talk] additions to translation README

[Carsten K. <car...@ma...>]

Hi,

I've just completed a major rewrite of the locale/README. One part in 
particular I would like some feedback on is the note about formal vs. 
informal language, because we have a new volunteer who offered to start 
some French translation.

Also this part only represents my personal view about translating PhpWiki 
so it should be edited or expanded to include your views too.

Here is the text. (For follow-up discussion I suggest to use a page on the 
SF phpwiki).

Carsten


Formalities
===========
The modern English language has no clear rules for differentiating
between the formal and informal use of the spoken word. This both
simplifies and complicates matters for translators, as many languages
do still make such a distinction. For the most part, PhpWiki is written
using the casual forms of messages and explanatory text--after all the
WikiWikiWeb is an open and friendly place. :-)

However, there is no reason why translations of Wiki commands like
"Edit" or "FindPages" should not be written formally. For the sake of
recognition or clarity when the word function is the same as another
common computer term or menu-item, if you feel it would be more
effective to employ a formal variation then please do so. When the
formal word is significantly longer than the informal word, make a
judgment call or substitute an abbreviation, provided that it will
be easily recognized.

Remember that a good and thorough translation is a subjective and
collective process. Once people have had a chance to test-drive your
newly-translated PhpWiki there will always be suggestions for
reshaping and improving it.

Diversity and Change are part of WikiEssence. By all means don't
belabour the translation process, and have some fun!