Based on the definition, translation is the process of converting text written in one language into another language. If you want to know what human translation is and why it matters, this article is for you!
Human translation is accompanied by interpretation. This is because the source document cannot be translated verbatim into the target document. Such a literal translation changes the overall meaning of the source document. The key to translating a document is translating the same message of the source document into another language.
Human translation provides the best translation for any document, including books, legal documents, manuals, product information, websites, personal documents, magazines, letters, advertisements, etc., even if there are machines available for translation. It carries out all processes related to the translation of written texts.
Machine translation can only translate text from one language to another. Machine translation does what a human translator can do, i.e. consider the grammar, idioms, conventions, and most importantly, the context of the source language when translating into the target language, and preserve the meaning as close as possible to the source language.
Understanding the Translation Process
Translation is a complex process, not scientific calculations or formulas that can be programmed into intelligent machines, so only humans can do it. The translation process usually involves a professional linguist/translator who is either a native speaker or has extensive knowledge of the target language. Depending on the intended audience of the translated text, the translator translates the source text into a version that can describe the soul and meaning of the source text in an appropriate tone and style.
The second step involves a professional editor. The editor corrects, improves, and completes the translator’s work so that it conforms to the terminology of the subject matter. He also ensures that correct punctuation, grammar, and other linguistic elements specific to the target language are included.
The third and final step is for the project manager to review the final work to ensure it is in the correct form and ready to be delivered to the client.
The purpose of the three translation processes is to ensure that the message, style, and mood are accurately reproduced in the original language and also accurately reproduced in the target language.
Hassles of Human Language
Human language is different from mathematical equations. It contains expressions. And the translation takes into account the context of the meaning and the meaning of the sentence when it is written in another language. Most words have multiple and different meanings. All of this should be taken into account when choosing style and wording for effective translation. Also, in English, there is a difference between crimson and mauve, and gray is not simply a mixture of black and white.
English has the same possibilities and intricacies as any other language. Translators choose the right words to effectively convey your message in the best possible way. This means that translators require a combination of extensive training and creativity. Translated documents do not have a uniform translation format. It is the translator’s job to make the decision to ensure the accuracy of the translation, and translations should always be subject to consideration and review, i.e. quality control by professional and experienced editors. The accuracy and quality of human translation cannot be compared to machine translation. Human translation is the result of a systematic process that leverages the skill of professional translators to select suitable alternative words.
Demand for Human Translation
Remove the misconception that translation is a simple machine-automated process. It is not yet possible for machines to do the work of human translators. Even with the current high demand for professional translation services, using a machine shouldn’t be an option. The consequences of such translations can seriously damage the company’s reputation. In fact, the company may suffer huge financial losses.
Almost every industry in the world needs language services. Law enforcement agencies may request translations of statements, much like medical professionals may request translations of certain documents and medical records. Legal professionals may also need translations of court proceedings, court documents, petitions, and statements. Media, insurance companies, financial companies, and companies with web presence all need translation work in one form or another. Anyone moving to another country where their language is not spoken needs translation documents. These documents include passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce certificates, and other personal documents.
Wrapping Up on the Importance of Human Translation
So, the difference between machine translation and human translation is very easy to identify. You can also see why the latter difference is so important. Yes, machine translation is cheaper than human translation. However, machine translation cannot understand the true meaning of the translated document. Machine translation can’t convey emotions, deep-seated cultures, and complexities that can be translated to another culture appropriately. It depends on many variables. It’s not a question of language or grammar. But it is also based on taboos, traditions, customs, and beliefs that only professional and experienced human translators can understand.
At AEC Translations, we rely on our professional linguists to produce translations that meet your expectations as a client. The translation results from our human translators are worth every penny.