aNobii Localization Mistake (Fixed)
It is sooo common to see translation errors in UI localization (software or Website alike). Especially for a big project that has many target languages, like aNobii.
aNobii is a Web 2.0 site for keeping a record of books that you read and your comments. Something like Goodreads, and LibraryThing.
To be frank I’ve come across quite a few Chinese translations that sound weird or at least non-native. And this is the most confusing one.
Following screenshot is what happens when you try to add someone to your “Neighbors” (less intimate than Friends):
Do you really want to remove this user from your Neighbors? And after clicking on Yes, this user will become your Neighbor.
I’ll drop a message to the aNobii folks, and let’s see how soon this could be fixed.
Fixed: I received an email from aNobii team saying they’ve fixed the issue. That email message was sent on 10:30 AM Hong Kong time. Impressive responsiveness.
Electronic Self-Portrait?
This is an ATM on the North 3rd Ring Road in Beijing. The Chinese translation for ATM is 自动提款机 (zì dòng tí kuǎn jī), which literally means Automated Withdrawal Machine.
Money is important, but Huaxia Bank preaches that you can’t do without art.
Pinyin Readability in Beijing Subway

Can you read this pinyin sign on the screen in an line 5 subway train? Do you know what’s the meaning, can you separate this in syllables & even pronounce it correctly? I bet not. It is hard for me, too.
I don’t know why they put all syllables stuck in capital letters. Heping Xiqiao or Heping West “Bridge” (so it is called) would be more readable & understandable.






