Financial terminology translation is a complex and specialized task that requires a deep understanding of both financial principles and the nuances of language.

Today, we're going to talk about how to find financial terminology efficiently. This is an important skill for anyone who works with financial documents, whether you're a translator, an analyst, or a financial professional.

Why is it important to know financial terminology?

Financial terminology is precise and nuanced. Even a small mistake in translation can have serious consequences. For example, if you mistranslate the term "net income" as "gross income," it could lead to significant errors in financial statements. Financial translation can be even trickier, as it involves both specialized vocabulary and complex concepts. Here is a simple example:

Let's take the English word "statement" and see how it is translated into French when it is combined with other words to form financial terms. 

  • Cash flow statement in English is état des flux de trésorerie in French.

  • Income statement in English is compte de résultats in French.

As you can see, the French word for "statement" is not always the same. In the first case, it is translated as état, and in the second case, it is translated as compte.

Let's now see how you should proceed with financial terminology.

Here are a few of my top tips:

  • Check any reference materials provided with the translation project.

    If your client has provided you with any reference materials, such as glossaries or previous translations, be sure to consult them first. These materials can provide you with valuable information about the terminology that your client prefers and the style of translation that they expect. However, if you believe that one of the terms provided is inappropriate or out of context, you can discuss this with your client and come to an agreement on the best translation. Also, it is important to communicate with your client if you have any questions or concerns about the terminology.

  • Use your reference material.

    If you have already translated similar content or have glossaries in the same field of expertise, be sure to use them. A well-maintained glossary can save you a lot of time, as most financial terminology is limited and repetitive. For example, if you have translated an annual report before, your glossary should include the two statements mentioned above.

  • Research the terminology.

    Financial translations can be tricky because they involve both specialized vocabulary and complex concepts. To ensure accuracy, it is important to fully understand the content of the financial document you are translating, as well as the specific terminology used. As a professional translator, you are not expected to know every financial term by heart. However, you should have strong research skills and be able to find reliable sources of information.

Still unable to find the right term?

However, if you still have doubts about a particular term, or if you are unable to find it, you may need to create your own translation.

To do this, imagine how the term could be worded in the target language, enter your suggested translation into a search engine. This will help you to determine if there is an existing term for the concept you are trying to translate. The search engine will consider your suggested translation as a combination of keywords. If there is, you can use that term in your translation. If not, you can use your own translation, but be sure to document your decision so that you can be consistent in future translations.

My Final words

Following these tips will help you improve your research skills, but it won't make you a professional translator overnight.

If you are interested in learning more about financial translation, I invite you to join my online course. In this course, you will learn:

  • The basics about finance and financial terminology
  • How to research and translate financial documents
  • How to manage complex and challenging translations
  • How to build a successful career as a financial translator


My course is designed for both beginners and experienced translators. Whether you are new to financial translation or you want to improve your skills, my course can help you to achieve your goals.

To learn more about my course and to register, click here to explore the courses available.

I look forward to helping you become a successful financial translator!

P.S. If you have any questions about my course, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am always happy to help!