In this guide, we will delve into the integration of machine translation with the expertise of professional linguists, emphasising essential practices for both pre- and post-editing stages.

Understanding Post-Editing of Machine Translations

In recent times, machine translation has advanced to a level where it transcends mere approximation of text meaning. The emergence of neural machine translation (NMT) has notably enhanced accuracy and fluency across various language pairs. However, despite these advancements, machine translation often falls short of human-level quality in most scenarios. This is where post-editing of machine translations becomes crucial.

Post-editing involves meticulously reviewing and refining machine-translated texts to enhance their accuracy and fluency.

In essence, after the machine translation software generates the text in the target language, skilled linguists meticulously examine the output and matches in the translation memory, striving to achieve the best quality.

The Significance of Pre-Editing: Enhancing Source Text Quality to Streamline Post-Editing Efforts

A critical aspect of optimising machine translation post-editing begins at the outset. Ensuring the availability of a well-prepared source text to facilitate the generation of high-quality output is essential. Machine translation thrives on input that is clear and precise. Simply put, the better the initial machine translation output, the less intensive the post-editing process becomes, resulting in expedited turnaround times and reduced expenses.

Given that early errors can propagate and escalate into complications down the line, it’s imperative to meticulously craft or pre-edit the source text, thereby providing both the machine translation engine and the post-editors with optimal material to work with.

Confirm, that:

  • Spelling and grammar errors are kept to a minimum.
  • Terminology and formatting are consistent.
  • The source text is suitable for a human to translate it.

Let’s explore tangible steps to improve output.

Text Preparation Tips:

  • Keep sentence length under 20 words with straightforward grammar
  • Avoid complex syntax and headline-style fragments.
  • Steer clear of idioms, sarcasm, and double negatives for clarity.
  • Opt for non-numeric date formats (e.g., “1 May” instead of “01/05/2020”) for better comprehension.

Strategies for Post-Editing Machine Translations

Post-editing requirements vary based on the project.

Generally, two main types of MTPE are available:

  • Light post-editing of machine translations
  • Full post-editing of machine translation

When selecting the appropriate MTPE method, consider time, quality, and cost as pivotal factors. Develop your post-editing strategy with these aspects in mind to ensure an appropriate approach.

Light post-editing (LPE)

In light post-editing (LPE), revisions to the initial machine translation are undertaken sparingly, addressing only essential areas to ensure readability and faithful representation of the source document’s meaning.

The post-editor must particularly target errors that could potentially compromise or the document’s integrity, as overlooking them may result in embarrassing outcomes and reputational damage, as seen with some notable tech companies. The objective is to minimise alterations while achieving swift and cost-effective outcomes.

Full post-editing (FPE)

Full post-editing (FPE) entails a comprehensive review and refinement of the original machine translation to eliminate any error thoroughly. Unlike LPE, FPE encompases various considerations, including:

  • Ensuring consistency in style and tone across the document and alignment with other relevant materials.
  • Rectifying grammatical inaccuracies.
  • Adapting cultural nuances appropriately in the target language, such as idiomatic expressions.
  • Incorporating the client’s terminology database, where available
  • Conducting a meticulous comparison between the translated content and the source text.

A meticulously post-edited machine translation should seamlessly convey as if it originated in the target language, effectively persuading the intended audience. While FPE demands more time and investment compared to LPE, it yields superior quality results.

Determining a Suitable MTPE Method?

View LPE and FPE as a continuum rather than an “either/or” scenario. Therefore, the choice of MTPE should be customized according to the specific translation project at hand.

For instance, consider prioritising post-editing tasks based on factors such as time, quality and cost. Giving precedence to segments with greater business significance, such as marketing materials, can also proof beneficial. Alternatively, opting to forego post-editing entirely may be viable for projects where the consequences of subpar translations are minimal, such as internal documentation.

The Finishing Touch: Quality Assurance

A comprehensive quality control phase is essential to finalize any post-editing process. Below are the steps we follow to guarantee that our work upholds the highest standards:

1. Linguistic Review:

Our seasoned linguists meticulously assess the text for linguistic precision, grammar, and stylistic coherence to ensure alignment with the target culture’s standards.

2. Consistency Check:

We verify the consistency of the translated text, ensuring uniformity in language and terminology usage throughout.

3. Formatting Verification:

We meticulously examine the formatted text to ensure it adheres to the specific requirements of the target format, whether it’s for a website, brochure, or software application.

Post-Editing Expertise:

Numerous linguists have embraced machine translation as a valuable productivity tool. They employ it to meet the evolving demands of the translation industry and efficiently accomplish translation tasks.

However, it’s important to note that a post-editor is not necessarily a translator. While there are similarities int their roles, there are also significant differences in required skills. The ISO 18587 standard, established in 2017, delineated crucial aspects of MTPE, outlining specific skills and competencies expected of post-editors. Optimal outcomes are achieved through the expertise of qualified and seasoned post-editots with practical proficiency in relevant language pairs, content types, and tools.

The Key to Success: Our Dedication to Excellence

At The Post-Editors, post-editing is more than just a job – it’s our passion. We strive for perfection in every project, employing top-tier methods and rigorous controls to ensure unwavering client satisfaction. Whether it’s minor adjustments or comprehensive revisions, we’re committed to enhancing the brilliance of your text.

We trust that this glimpse into our world of post-editing and quality assurance has been both enlightening and enjoyable. Should you have any further inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

See you next time!

References:

https://phrase.com/blog/posts/machine-translation-post-editing-best-practices