* Depth over Breadth: Being highly proficient in two languages is far more valuable than being moderately fluent in five. A translator needs deep understanding of nuances, idioms, and cultural context to accurately convey meaning.
* Specialization: Translators often focus on specific subject areas (like legal, medical, or technical). This requires expertise in both the language and the field.
* Continuous Learning: Translators are lifelong learners, constantly expanding their knowledge in their chosen languages and subject areas.
In short, there's no magic number. A professional translator needs to be:
* Highly proficient in at least two languages.
* Specialized in a particular subject area.
* Dedicated to continuous learning and improvement.
This combination ensures accurate and high-quality translation work.