Translation Memory

Definition

Translation memory is a technology that stores previously translated source texts and their corresponding target texts to aid human translators in producing consistent and efficient translations. By leveraging this stored data, translators can quickly access and reuse translations of similar segments or phrases, enhancing productivity and maintaining uniformity across projects. It acts as a collaborative tool between machine translation and human expertise.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Translation memory systems can significantly reduce translation costs by reusing existing translations for new projects.
2. These systems improve translation consistency by ensuring that the same terms and phrases are translated identically across different texts.
3. Translation memory can be integrated with various CAT tools to streamline the workflow for translators.
4. As the memory grows with each new project, the efficiency of the translation process also increases due to the availability of more reusable content.
5. Translation memories require regular maintenance and updates to remove outdated or incorrect translations to maintain accuracy in future projects.

Review Questions

• How does translation memory enhance the efficiency of human translators?
  • Translation memory enhances the efficiency of human translators by storing previously translated texts, allowing them to quickly access and reuse segments that have already been translated. This means that when similar phrases or sentences appear in new projects, translators can pull from their translation memory rather than starting from scratch. As a result, this leads to faster turnaround times and helps maintain consistency across various projects.
• Discuss the role of translation memory in the context of machine translation and computer-assisted translation.
  • Translation memory plays a crucial role in both machine translation and computer-assisted translation by providing a repository of past translations that can be utilized alongside automated processes. In computer-assisted translation, translators use these memories to refine machine-generated translations, ensuring that terminology is consistent and contextually appropriate. This symbiotic relationship between machine output and human expertise leads to higher quality translations overall.
• Evaluate the potential challenges associated with using translation memory in professional translation workflows.
  • While translation memory offers many advantages, there are potential challenges in its use within professional workflows. One challenge is the risk of over-reliance on stored translations, which may lead to repetitive phrasing or loss of nuance in language. Additionally, maintaining an updated and relevant translation memory can be resource-intensive, requiring regular audits and edits to ensure accuracy. Finally, there may be issues with compatibility between different CAT tools, which can hinder collaboration among translators who use varying software.

Related terms

Machine Translation: The process of using software to automatically translate text from one language to another without human intervention.

Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT): A translation approach that combines human translation with computer tools, including translation memory, to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Segment: A distinct piece of text, such as a sentence or phrase, that is processed for translation within the translation memory system.