In the domestic language service industry, localization companies and translation companies are the two main forms of existence. Although both involve the "translation" category and appear highly similar, this often leads to public confusion about their relationship. However, despite their similarities, there are also fundamental differences between them. Below is a detailed analysis of the distinctions between localization translation and general translation.

　　I. General Translation

　　Translation, essentially, is the conversion of language information from one language to another. This process must adhere to the principles of accuracy, fluency, and elegance. In general translation, translators can translate text word-by-word or phrase-by-phrase according to client requirements, or make precise translations by incorporating grammatical features. Given clients' varying requirements for translation quality, some translations are not strictly required in terms of cultural differences and idiom conversions, and only need to accurately convey the meaning of the original text through the grammar and vocabulary of the target language. In short, general translation mainly involves the conversion of language information in documents, text files, videos, websites, and programs.

　　II. Localization Translation

　　Localization translation is a process that builds on translation but makes comprehensive adjustments based on various factors such as the language culture, reading habits, and expression habits of the target user group. It not only conveys language information but also covers aspects such as culture, customs, and religious beliefs, aiming to make the translated content more aligned with the target market. For example, in website localization translation, besides language conversion, adjustments also need to be made considering the target users' reading habits, browsing habits, page layout, time unit conversions, and cultural differences. Localization translation is a customized form of translation tailored to a specific target market.

　　III. Comparison of Differences

　　The biggest difference between localization translation and general translation is that the former allows clients to read without feeling the trace of translation, as if the content was written directly in the native language. For local residents, these localized contents are indistinguishable from other familiar contents, making it easier to integrate into the local market.

　　Furthermore, localization translation places greater emphasis on the attitudes of the target audience. Taking game translation as an example, it needs to consider the preferences of the game user group to enhance their engagement and the spread of the game. In film and television localization translation, local language habits need to be considered to win more audiences for the film and television works by leveraging these habits.

　　Localization translation also plays a significant role in product sales. For instance, in product promotions, many companies use locally understandable and catchy vocabulary as slogans to achieve easy dissemination.

　　Therefore, the main difference between localization translation and general translation lies in their understanding of the target audience. Localization translation requires considering both the translated content itself and the target audience's acceptance level during the translation process. In terms of language use skills, localization translation places higher demands on translators' colloquial abilities and attention to detail, necessitating the avoidance of taboo words for the target audience. The prerequisite for localization translation is a deep understanding of the target audience, which is why many translation companies prefer to use native-speaking translators for review when providing localization translation services.