The strong link between Hungarian immigrants and the UK was immortalised in a classic Monty Python comedy sketch from the 1970s, in which an enterprising con man has created an English Hungarian dictionary which mistranslates phrases so they become increasingly rude gibberish.
However, the links between the UK and Hungary go much further back than the 1970s. The cultural and historical links between the countries are as old as Hungary itself. A close relationship developed between British and Hungarian political and philosophical thought. Perhaps the first great link between the two countries was formed when two Hungarians, called Count Széchenyi and Baron Wesselényi, travelled together to England in 1821. Their experiences inspired them to reform the political and economic development of their native country so that it became a major cultural centre.
Count Széchenyi also played a key part in supporting the construction of the Chain Bridge which links the two cities of Buda and Pest, and formed the foundation for the unification of the two to form the modern city of Budapest. In a further sign of the rich exchange of ideas between the two nations, it was a Scottish engineer, Adam Clark, who supervised the construction of the bridge.
After WW2 and the 1956 revolution, many Hungarians were forced to flee to the UK. Notable immigrants were George Soros, who would go on to become one of the most successful businessmen in the world, and the actor Sándor Éles.
Immigration from Hungary to the UK has continued to this day. in 2004, when Hungary became part of the European Union, it became much easier for Hungarians to live and work within the UK. The Hungarian population rose from around 13,000 in 2001 to around 79,000 by 2014.
The flow of people, ideas and business between the UK and Hungary has resulted in a strong demand for professional Hungarian translation services, as UK companies operating in Hungary require documents and contracts translating, as well as requiring live, in-person translation during meetings. Hungarians who are immigrating to work in the UK may also require certified translations of personal ID documents.
While you may be tempted to reduce your expenditure by relying on online translation programs, this can result in costly mistakes and misunderstandings which could jeopardise a business deal, or the employment of a skilled Hungarian national. The citizens of the UK will soon vote to remain in, or leave the EU. Whatever the outcome, it will not reduce the amount of translation required when the two countries do business, and may in fact increase it.
As well as providing an expert translation of documents and meetings, a professional translator will be able to understand the nuances of Hungarian language and culture, which means you can be certain you are not causing unintentional offence.
If you are looking to do business in Hungary or to employ Hungarian staff, use a professional translation service: Teck Language Solutions. We have over a decade of experience working with companies conducting businesses across Europe, which is why we can ensure that business is conducted smoothly and efficiently, while also enabling you to impress your Hungarian business partners from your very first meeting. Contact us today to find out more.