12 words that defined 2024 for us: a language journey over the year

Every December, Fundéu, a foundation that gives recommendations on the correct use of language, with the support of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE), takes stock of the current year and selects 12 words that are put forward as word of the year.

They are words that stand out for their linguistic, cultural and social relevance because they illustrate events and trends that are taking place. This choice not only gives food for thought on the changes in language, but also serves as a reminder of the power of words to catch the spirit of the times. 

Inspired by this exercise, at Interglossa we have come up with our own selection of words that have defined 2024. Learning curves, emotions, projects... these 12 words summarise how this year went for us. Because language continues to be our best ally to express and understand what is happening to us.

 

JANUARY: TECHNOLOGY

We kicked off the year very focused on several technical projects involving the translation of different technological devices. We had a clear objective: to provide precise instructions that users all over the world could understand in 24 languages!

What’s more, we launched a secure online platform to exchange files with clients and translators, which has been a resounding success.

 

FEBRUARY: ART

We love art! The translation  of texts for museums and art galleries is one of our favourite pastimes, so in February we had a whale of a time with an art project that allowed us to combine linguistic precision with cultural sensitivity. We ended up with a work of art!

 

MARCH: FINANCE

March is a key date in our business schedule: it is the month of financial statements. It is the time of the year when many organisations entrust us with the translation of their annual reports and financial audits.

Because we know it is good for us, at Interglossa we also review our financial situation. This year helped us to assess results and plan growth strategies for the rest of the year.

 

APRIL: LITERATURE

Literary translation is usually the dream for most students who are enticed into the world of translation. Although our professional path has taken us down another route, literature is still a source of inspiration for our team.

In April, we celebrated World Book Day at the office: we gave each other books and shared our latest favourite works of literature.

 

MAY: CRISIS

May brought us an unexpected challenge: a crisis arising from a sudden change in the team. This forced us to replan strategies and redouble our efforts. Although it was a very complex month, we realised that with creativity and determination we could overcome all obstacles. Undoubtedly, this experience made us a stronger team.

 

JUNE: ENTHUSIASM

In June, our screens became flooded with images of texts illustrated with idyllic landscapes of infinity pools and spectacular sunsets.

Inspired by these good vibes, we started to imagine exotic journeys and dream destinations, although there were still a few weeks left before we went on holiday. You can always live on dreams!

 

JULY: MEMORY

In the middle of summer, we started our involvement as language advisers in an innovative research project on Alzheimer’s, for which we helped analyse speech patterns to identify early signs of the disease.

This project has enabled up to explore the power of language from a scientific perspective. We are very proud to have been able to do our bit for a cause of great social relevance.

 

AUGUST: CALM

“Out of office” was the most common message this month. August is usually a quiet month, with fewer urgent jobs, which allows us to work with less stress, recharge our batteries and plan projects. With many of our freelances on holiday, it was also a good time to make contact with other professionals in the sector.

 

SEPTEMBER: AFFIDAVITS   

September is a month of "fresh starts" on many levels: back to work, the start of the school year, new projects.... We were snowed under with sworn translations and academic transcripts, deeds of incorporation, notarial certificates, visa applications, etc. Sworn translations all over the place!

 

OCTOBER: ETHICS

In October, we translated may codes of ethics into many languages and we thought about how to put these values into practice in our working lives. That’s because at Interglossa we take our corporate responsibility and image very seriously.

 

NOVEMBER: REBIRTH

After months of reflection, soul-searching and a lot of work, November brought along significant changes.

We were finally able to reap the rewards of the opportunities that came about as a result of our crisis several months before. We renewed our team, optimised processes and laid the foundations for a new, promising stage. This was a month of rebirth for Interglossa.

 

DECEMBER: REFLECTION

With the end of the year nigh, the time came to reflect on our achievements and lessons learnt.

This year was marked by a raft of emotions, crisis included. However, we have ended 2024 stronger, more confident and with renewed enthusiasm to rise to all of the challenges that 2025 may bring. We’re ready!

 

For us, every word counts and we hope that this journey will inspire you to think about the words that defined 2024 for you.