Machine translation, in other words automatic translation, is very often confused with Computer Assisted Translation. The former is done by machines – their software uses algorithms, set of rules, is assisted with artificial intelligence, and bases its work on translation memory from previous documents. The latter is done by humans, who with the use of a CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) program, make a specialist translation. Thanks to this, it is possible to optimize the process of translation because the software helps the translator, for instance in checking of writing style and spelling, and also remembers phrases which have been already translated before, using them in subsequent projects. However, it is important to remember that this tool does not translate, but rather assists linguists in their work, enhancing the speed and precision of the translation process.
The process of machine translation, which appeared in 1950 for the first time, and which is becoming more and more widespread, allows for the processing and translation of a large amount of information in a short time. Currently, machine translation is not able to replace human work, as there are still some logical or stylistic mistakes, and specialist verification is still necessary. Working on a machine translation is so-called post-editing. Post-editors work on texts translated by machines, checking grammar and appropriate context. It is also crucial to make sure that the document and language are in line with the customers’ expectations and if the translation is properly localized, because software often translates too literally. This is especially significant if the text contains idioms or business vocabulary.
This kind of translation is the best option for technical texts, manuals, legal documents, and others which contain repetitive elements. post-editing is also recommended when the recipient wants to know the general sense of the text.
There are two kinds of post-editing. The first involves creating a text in a way which is understandable and conveys the general information, without delving into details. The second involves creating a text whose quality is close to the original, additionally improved by humans, one which is precise and conveys the same message as the original with all the details
Thanks to the rapid development of technology and neural machine translations, translation is becoming more precise and better, along with the greater demand for such services. Machine translations are definitely the future of business. A lot of specialists think that this phenomenon may contribute to replacement of traditional translation and result in big changes in professional career paths for translators.
(translation K.K.)
