Perhaps on more than one occasion you have wondered why we don’t have machines completing all the translation work. Nowadays, with digital dictionaries and such precise computer programming, we might think that human translation is on its last legs. However, as we will see in this article, the reality is very different. It’s true that we can use software to translate texts, but the work of people in post-editing is still fundamental.
What is post-editing and why is human translation still essential?
First of all, we would like to start by explaining exactly what post-editing work consists of. When it comes to translating a text, it’s possible to use a translation produced by software, and from this more digital text, carry out further editing which, of course, is completed by a person.
Machine translation can be very useful but, when it come to translating texts, it’s absolutely essential o have a human being revise and adapt them to the moment, circumstances, register, etc. In other words, no matter how much digital software is perfected for translation, the association to a particular context and specific circumstances must be done by qualified and experienced professionals.
First of all, you may wonder why there are more and more translations and why the use of machine translation is necessary. The truth is that, with the prospect of a globalized world, it has become practically essential to translate texts into popular languages or into the particular languages of various regions.
As these translations are intended to be fast and, moreover, there are more of them, machine translation software is used and then edited by people to improve particular aspects. This is the way to achieve a high volume of quality translations in record time.
The enormous importance of translation professionals
So, you may already be thinking that the work of translators is taking a turn in this regard. Whereas before they had to worry about finding precise synonyms and completing a translation of rather complex grammatical structures, now they have to be able to adapt to the context and the essence of the texts.
In this way, among other factors, they must have the ability to detect feelings, ideas or appreciations that are more useful than before. Therefore, they need continuous training, and it’s necessary for university programs to focus more on aspects that, perhaps, until now have taken a back seat.
In short, post-editing is the order of the day and is an excellent option, since it offers great quality in a very short time. If you’re interested in learning more about these services and how they are delivered, don’t hesitate to contact Blarlo with all your questions. We’ll be delighted to help you!
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish) Français (French)
