When creating Slogans for products and companies it is very important to avoid using slang, vague expression, and to use easily translated words. Now a day’s most browsers allow the user to translate any website into the language of their choosing. The internet and television has allowed for easier and larger scale marketing across cultures. However measures to ensure smooth transition were not implemented right away. This led to rather funny and awkwardly translated slogans. Here are some of my personal favourites:
When KFC opened their first Beijing restaurant in 1987 they translated their slogan “Finger-lickin good” in Chinese to “We’ll Eat Your Fingers Off”.
Coors Light breweries obviously didn't hire a local translator when they had their slogan at the time “Turn it loose!” translated to “Suffer from Diarrhoea” in Spanish.
I guess in 2006 some major companies still weren't picking up on the importance of careful translation. That was the year Clairol decided to market their popular “mist stick” in Germany. By not changing the name they were now selling the “manure stick” to the Germans. Bet they couldn't wait to wrap their hair around that.
Everyone has to remember the "Got Milk" ads. Well as long as you’re not new to North America you will. However you may never forget them if you are from or lived in South America at the time. Especially since there the commercials translated to ask the question “are you lactating?”
In 1970 the Ford Company just didn't understand why the "Pinto" wasn't selling in Brazil. That was untill they finally learned that "Pinto" was a term in Brazilian slang that meant "male genitalia".
There are numerous examples such as the ones above. Do you have a favourite you heard of that's not listed here? Cause I would love to hear about it.
In 1970 the Ford Company just didn't understand why the "Pinto" wasn't selling in Brazil. That was untill they finally learned that "Pinto" was a term in Brazilian slang that meant "male genitalia".
Source: http://www.oddee.com/item_97732.aspx
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