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Hi Kagi Team,
First, thank you for the new translation tool—it’s a game-changer! I want to suggest a feature that many other translators (like Google Translate, DeepL, etc.) overlook but is critical for accurate and culturally respectful communication: the ability to choose between formal and informal language (e.g., German "Sie" vs. "du," French "vous" vs. "tu," Spanish "usted" vs. "tú").
Why is this important?
In many languages, the distinction between formal and informal address is not optional—it’s a cornerstone of politeness and context. For example:
- In German, using "du" (informal) with a stranger, colleague, or in professional settings can come across as disrespectful or overly familiar. "Sie" (formal) is expected in business, official communication, or with people you don’t know well.
- In French, addressing someone as "tu" instead of "vous" can unintentionally offend, especially in workplaces or formal interactions.
- In Spanish, "usted" signals respect for elders, authority figures, or strangers, while "tú" is for friends and peers.
Many English speakers might not grasp this nuance because English no longer uses formal/informal pronouns (modern English only has "you," but older forms like "thou" were informal). This makes it easy for translation tools to ignore the issue, leading to awkward or even offensive translations.
The problem with other translators
Most platforms either:
- Default to informal language (e.g., "du" in German), which risks sounding unprofessional.
- Use inconsistent or outdated rules (e.g., overly formal translations for casual chats).
- Ignore the distinction entirely, forcing users to manually edit translations—a hassle for learners or busy professionals.
How Kagi can stand out
By adding a simple toggle (e.g., "Formal/Informal Mode"), Kagi would:
- Prevent misunderstandings in emails, documents, or conversations.
- Empower users to control the tone, whether they’re writing a job application (formal) or a message to a friend (informal).
- Set a new standard for translation tools by addressing a gap that even big players neglect.
This feature would be especially valuable for:
- Business users needing polished, professional translations.
- Language learners trying to grasp cultural nuances.
- Travelers or immigrants navigating formal scenarios (e.g., government forms, meetings).
Thank you for considering this idea! By prioritizing cultural accuracy, Kagi could redefine what a translation tool can achieve.
