Whenever we receive a translation request from one language to English, there is one revered reference our Apex translators value and use above all others – the OED.  Most people are not acquainted with the OED, the Oxford English Dictionary, the time-honored written authority on recording the English language since 1884.

As this blog has stated before, language, and (especially the English language) is a truly living, ever-evolving communication of verbal and written exchange in our lives.  English has attached some well-worn words from other languages such as avant-garde (French) bon mot (French) avatar (Sanskrit) typhoon (Urdu), shampoo (Hindustani), egg (Old Norse), streusel (German), kindergarten (German), gauntlet (Swedish) brogue (Celtic-Irish),   pilsner (German), and Hades (Greek).  Remember, England is an island nation with many ports of call used in world-wide commerce for centuries, and therefore, it is highly likely that nations would not only leave their cargo behind for trade, but also the necessary words used for the identity of goods, behavior, currency, social constructs, and even the weather.

With respect, The English language is a paradox, a constant which shifts its shape down through the ages and, thus, utterly modern and historically ancient at the same time.  At Apex Translation Services, our translators are well-versed and well aware of etymologies, word histories, and derivative spellings which only enhance your finished translation.

The OED publishes its quarterly updates four times a year with additions, amendments, fleshed-out explanations and varying definitions, and people (of all professions, especially English speakers and writers wherever they live and/or work in the world) should pay attention to the new additions.

Take a look at new revised entries in 2013: https://public.oed.com/the-oed-today