What is technical translation?
Technical translation involves the accurate and precise translation of specialized documents and content related to technical fields such as engineering, medicine, or science. This type of translation requires translators with extensive experience and expertise in both the source and target languages, as well as a deep understanding of the subject matter being translated. Whether it’s translating product descriptions, technical manuals, or patent applications, technical translators must possess specialized knowledge and linguistic skills to ensure that the translated content maintains its accuracy, clarity, and relevance.
Additionally, technical translation often involves adhering to international standards and legal requirements, particularly in regulated industries such as medical devices or pharmaceuticals. The goal of technical translation is to effectively communicate complex information across different languages and cultures, ensuring that the content retains its integrity and can be understood by the target audience.
Some people would think technical translation only applies to documents for consumers such as user manuals and user guides for specific products. Still, there is more to it as scientific papers and articles discussing technological advancements and general scientific information must also be translated. However, there is a difference between the two types of information presented above.
When it comes to documents written for consumers such as user guides or manuals, the translation becomes a bit complicated. Usually, such documents contain terms that are hard to understand for average consumers due to their technical nature. Translation must be done in a way that is still technologically correct while comprehensive for normal people with no technological background.
When it comes to translating scientific papers however, the translation must be exact as such papers are addressed to scientists which are able to understand less known terms. In order to do such a job, a translator would need a glossary of terms being used in the document to be translated. Usually, such a glossary is provided by the client, but if the client doesn’t have one, the translation agency must provide it to the translator after it has been approved by the client.
Who can do technical translation?
Technical translation can only be done by translators skilled in the specific technical area in order to provide quality work. In this case, it is not enough for the translator to be a native in the language the document is being translated into but said translator must also possess a strong technical background in the specific field in order to understand the terms and the jargon being used in the source document. The translator must also be up to date with the latest advancements in the field, especially when translating scientific papers.
The conditions above are pretty restrictive so finding a translator to fit the job may be quite a challenge. This is why it is important to contact a specialized translation company as they will be able to find a perfect fit for your translation needs.