Here we are, where science-fiction meets reality; a time when many jobs and tasks can be successfully outsourced to artificial intelligence with minimal, if any, loss in quality. But when it comes to something as organic, nuanced, and human as language, can you really risk leaving it to the cold calculations of a translation program rather than relying on a professional translator? At ABS Translations, we have the linguistic background and experience to answer with a resounding NO. Allow us to explain why.
Systems & Spontaneity
Though online translation tools can handily help you translate casual, conversational speech into other languages, you simply cannot rely on them to deliver the same meticulous quality as a native-speaking human being. Here’s why:
- Human beings are not machines. Because the way we communicate with one another is highly influenced by personality and circumstance, language development is a marriage of systems and spontaneity.
- Translation apps and websites might be able to deliver rough translations that a foreign language-speaking friend might tolerate, but they’re far from capable of delivering the precise product you need for business communication and professional documents. Friends have grace for simple errors; your business competitor’s legal team will not.
With the rise of Google Translate and artificial intelligence-powered translation tools, many have hoped these would be capable of translating virtually anything with spot-on accuracy. While the generated results may seem correct at first glance, the reality is that they’re often riddled with meaning-altering errors. In turn, use of these programs for professional translation purposes can lead to a host of issues, from customer confusion to compliance liabilities.
Even Google itself has proclaimed that its translation service was “never intended to replace human translators.” Why? As the article explains, Google Translate simply isn’t capable of producing the same precise, detailed, culturally nuanced translation product as a human being. In fact, using it as such can and often does result in serious mistranslations, misunderstandings, and the complications that follow, from legal repercussions to rejected immigration applications.
The Human Element
Would you try fine calligraphy with a jumbo Sharpie? Would you use a jackhammer to chisel facial features on a miniature marble sculpture? Neither would it be wise to use Google Translate for official document translation purposes.
When you source professional translators from a reputable company like ABS, you’re accessing a wealth of resources that combine to deliver you precise, accurate, industry-specific, and culturally relevant translations. Our documents are translated by living, breathing, native-speaking human beings who have experience in a wide range of industries.
Locating a Professional Translator
If you want to understand the greeting text your Spanish fiance’s abuela just sent you, Google Translate Google Translate or ChatGPT is a pretty safe bet; however, if you’re navigating a business merger with a foreign company or preparing immigration documents, it’s wise to trust ABS Translations instead. Give us a call at 215-233-3000 to request a free quote for your project.