Embarrassing translation

Translation fails are among the most embarrassing errors a business or organization faces when striving to appeal to a global audience. Not only does it affect how your message is interpreted, it affects the intended target’s perception of your business or organization. Most of these translation fails can be avoided with proper planning and execution from a qualified translator. However, when businesses and organizations overlook this step, issues may arise. 

This is a funny example of a translation fail:

Parker Pen Company ran a successful ad campaign by promising customers that the Parker pens “won’t leak in your pocket and embarrass you.” When they entered the Spanish-speaking Mexican market, the catchphrase was inaccurately translated into “no goteará en tu bolsillo ni te embarazará.” The people of Mexico were consequently reassured that a Parker pen would never get them pregnant.