Localization: meaning, definitions and examples

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localization

 

[ ˌləʊ.kə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer software

The process of adapting a product or content to a specific locale or market. It involves translating text and adjusting elements such as date, time, and currency formats to suit the target audience.

Synonyms

adaptation, customization, translation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
localization

This term is used when you need to adjust a product or content to fit the language, culture, and other specific needs of a particular region or market.

  • The software team focused on localization to make the app compatible with different languages and cultural references.
  • Localization efforts include translating text, changing date formats, and adjusting images to suit local tastes.
translation

This word is used when you need to convert text from one language to another without altering the meaning.

  • The book's translation into Spanish made it accessible to a wider audience.
  • Accurate translation is crucial for legal documents to ensure all details are clearly understood.
adaptation

This word is often used when you modify something to make it suitable for a new purpose or situation, often involving creative changes rather than just translation.

  • The novel was successfully adapted into a movie, with several changes to fit modern audiences.
  • Adapting the curriculum to include more interactive activities was necessary for the new teaching approach.
customization

This term is appropriate when you need to make specific changes to suit individual preferences or requirements.

  • The website offers several customization options, allowing users to personalize their dashboard.
  • Car customization can include changing the paint color, adding performance upgrades, and installing new audio systems.

Examples of usage

  • The company invested in localization to make their app more user-friendly in different countries.
  • Localization is essential for ensuring that a website resonates with users worldwide.
Context #2 | Noun

linguistics

The phenomenon of variability in human languages across different regions or communities. It can include differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and cultural norms.

Synonyms

dialectal variation, regional language differences.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
localization

Used when talking about the process of adapting content or products to meet the language, cultural, and other specific needs of a particular country or region.

  • The video game company is focusing on the localization of their new game to launch it in multiple countries.
  • Localization of the website includes translating text and adjusting the design to suit regional preferences.
dialectal variation

Often used in linguistic studies to refer to the differences in language use within various dialects of the same language across different regions.

  • Dialectal variation can be observed in the pronunciation of certain words in different parts of the country.
  • The research paper discussed the dialectal variations between Northern and Southern English.
regional language differences

Commonly utilized in general discussions about how language differs from one region to another without the scientific nuance of 'dialectal variation'.

  • When travelling abroad, you can notice regional language differences even within the same country.
  • The regional language differences make it hard for businesses to create a single marketing campaign for the entire country.

Examples of usage

  • The linguist studied the localization of dialects in rural areas.
  • Localizations in language can lead to misunderstandings between speakers from different regions.
Context #3 | Noun

business

The practice of customizing products or services to meet the needs of a particular market or customer segment. It may involve changes in features, pricing, or marketing strategies.

Synonyms

customization, personalization, tailoring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
localization

This word is often used when adapting content or products for a specific geographic area or culture. It might involve translation, adjusting formats, or considering local customs.

  • The app's localization for the Japanese market included translating all text and adjusting the date format
customization

This is used when modifying something to suit individual preferences or needs. It usually refers to changing parts of a product or service to make it more suitable for a particular user or group.

  • The software's customization options allow users to change the toolbar layout and theme colors
tailoring

This word is used when making changes or adjustments to something so that it fits someone perfectly. It often refers to clothing, but can also be used in a broader sense for other custom adjustments.

  • She spent time tailoring the presentation to address the client’s specific concerns
personalization

Personalization is about tailoring content, services, or products to the individual needs or preferences of a specific user. It often involves using data about the user to create a unique experience.

  • The website uses personalization techniques to suggest products based on your previous purchases

Examples of usage

  • The company's success can be attributed to its localization efforts in understanding local consumer preferences.
  • Localization allows businesses to connect with their target audience on a more personal level.

Translations

Translations of the word "localization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 localização

🇮🇳 स्थानीयकरण

🇩🇪 Lokalisierung

🇮🇩 lokalisasi

🇺🇦 локалізація

🇵🇱 lokalizacja

🇯🇵 ローカリゼーション

🇫🇷 localisation

🇪🇸 localización

🇹🇷 yerelleştirme

🇰🇷 현지화

🇸🇦 توطين

🇨🇿 lokalizace

🇸🇰 lokalizácia

🇨🇳 本地化

🇸🇮 lokalizacija

🇮🇸 staðfærsla

🇰🇿 локализация

🇬🇪 ლოკალიზაცია

🇦🇿 yerləşdirmə

🇲🇽 localización

Etymology

The term 'localization' originated in the software industry to describe the process of adapting software to different languages and cultural preferences. It has since expanded to various fields, including business, linguistics, and marketing. The concept of localization reflects the importance of catering to diverse audiences and ensuring relevance in a globalized world.

See also: local, locale, locales, localism, locality, localize, localized, locals.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,628 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.