Why Manual Translation Should be Preferred Over Translation Software
Translation of text, videos, and audio has allowed a better
understanding of cultures around the world. Long before the internet was widely
available and prior to translation services being available, sharing
information in a second language was tedious at best. Now there are tools,
machines, and multiple translators available to translate materials of all
types. When you are in need of some form of translation, whether it be a
brochure, video, or Christian website translation, then there are options
available. The options tend to fall into three categories: completely machine
based, a combination of translation tools and human translation, and pure human
translation. Each of these will be described below.
Machine Translation
Machine
translation is exactly what it sounds like. Using a computer, text is entered
in and a direct translation is made. This has pros and cons. Machine translation
is cheap, often free, but translating sizable documents can be tedious. Machine
translation is also word for word without consideration for grammatical issues.
In many languages, words translated directly do not make sense in the new
language. While a person may be able to gain a minor understanding of a topic
from a direct translation, a deep understanding would not be possible. In fact,
a direct translation may cause people to stop reading because the text is
confusing. For key phrases, machine translation may be an option, but entire
texts should probably be avoided with this method.
Dual Form Translation
A mix
of machine and human translation is a good option if budget restrictions are in
place, but there can still be issues. Many times, this is a machine translation
that is then edited by a human fluent in the new language to make the text make
sense. While this sounds good, if the machine translation was not accurate, the
final editing will not be accurate either. This means the underlying meaning of
a text can be literally lost in translation.
Human Translation
Human
translation can be done for any type of text, video, audio, or mixed media.
This type of translation is completed by humans only without the help of a
computer. This assures that the message intended is the one that is translated
in the proper grammatical form. Human translation is the most highly
recommended type of translation. However, this is also the most time consuming
and costly form of translation.
Things to Consider
When
trying to find the perfect translation service for your text, even if it is
something like a website, then do your homework. Look for reviews of the
service and talk with representatives ahead of time for an estimate on time and
price. If looking for Christian website translation then search for top
Christian translation services. Choose an organization or ministry that uses
human translation alone so that you know those translating will understand the
message being given and translate appropriately. You have spent a large amount
of time working on the text to be translated so it deserves the best treatment.
Beyond
choosing the right translation organization, make sure your text is prepared by
removing cultural references when possible, keeping sentences short, and
removing passive voice as much as possible. This allows for a better and often
faster translation to be provided. Make sure when you are seeking translation,
especially if it is the first time translating a text, that you choose only one
or two common languages just to get used to the process, cost, and can then
check to see if the text is popular enough to cover those costs. For some this
may not matter. Perhaps you need a Christian website translation that
will be freely shared for free, but your goal is to reach a certain population.
Start with that language and then translate further if needed.
Why Manual Translation Should be Preferred Over Translation Software
Reviewed by Complete Knowledge
on
August 22, 2019
Rating: 5
