Just in case you haven't noticed, the holidays are upon us, which means you literally have half a day to find that last-minute gift for that special (or not so special) translator in your life. Chances are if you've procrastinated until now, you obviously need a helping hand. And since we're not one to leave someone in need out in the cold, let's get a move on it! Whether you're shopping for the detail-oriented translator or the intrepid world-traveling linguaphile, we've got you covered. Here's our list of 6 splendid gift ideas that just might save you from finding yourself on Santa’s naughty list.
1. For the Translator Who Has Everything
Bowlingual Dog Translator, $168, japangadgetshop.com
They can translate Klingon into Elvish, but do they have any clue what present their sweet old pooch is hoping to find under the tree? Or whether this year their playful puppy wants a chicken leg or a turkey breast for their holiday dinner? Or what the secret to life is? No, no and no! Why? Because they don’t own a bowlingual dog translator. Give this unique (and awesome) gadget to the translator you love and, along with their faithful four-legged friend, they will thank you.
2. For the Late Night Translator
Tour of the World Fair Trade Coffee Sampler, $22, justlovecoffee.com
Staying up into the wee hours of the morning to knock out another urgent translation before sunrise just doesn't get any better than when you have a hot cup of socially conscience joe in your hands to keep you at your best. Besides, what coffee lover wouldn't be ecstatic to receive a gift of such caliber? Pull out this gift on Christmas morning and no doubt, you'll almost be as popular as Old St. Nicholas himself.
3. For the Jetsetting Translator
Traveler’s Phrasebook T-shirt, $31, artlebedev.com
If you’re shopping for a freelance translator this holiday season, you probably know that life as a freelance translator means having an über-flexible schedule, no boss to tell you what to do and the freedom to work from whichever tropical island you desire. Assuming you can even sweet talk this lucky one into returning home for the holidays, consider giving them this awesome international pictograms t-shirt. Never again will they ever have trouble ordering a Piña Colada.
4. For the Sleep Deprived Translator
French Word Pillowcase Set, $70, chipchop.com.au
You don’t have to speak a romance language to appreciate it for its elegance and beauty, so this gift item is a must have for any language lover. And we all know how easy it can be to get mixed up in the holiday hustle and bustle, so remind that sleep-deprived translator you care about to take some well-deserved time to rest their weary eyes. While you're at it, listen to you own advice and get a set for yourself as well.
5. For the Translator You Don’t Really Like
Translation Pencils Set, $6, quirkgallery.com
Let’s face it. There are times when gift giving doesn’t come from the heart. For instance, like when you feel burdened by an obligation to buy a gift for the distant relative you are being forced to see at grandma’s house this year. With this quirky translation pencil set, Uncle whatever-his-name-is won’t get left out, and at just 6 bucks a pop you won't even break a sweat.
6. For the Know-it-All Translator
Is that a Fish in Your Ear?: Translation and the Meaning of Everything, David Bellos, $18, amazon.com
Shopping for that walking encyclopedia of linguistic knowledge this holiday season doesn’t have to be a drag. For once, put that know-it-all to the test with this delightful gift, one that covers the meaning of everything, and yes we said everything. If by chance you still aren't able to stump that bigheaded saucebox, at least you'll have them occupied long enough for you to sneak away to snag some holiday eggnog.
If you've made it this far then either you've finally finished your holiday shopping OR you're just plain helpless. For your sake, we're assuming it isn't the latter. Seriously though, next time try not to wait until the absolute last possible moment, okay? From the entire team here at myGengo, Happy Holidays!
(Main image courtesy of Francine Clouden.)
