- When can terminology inconsistencies occur in translation?
- Why is terminology consistency important, and why are inconsistencies a problem?
- How does the inconsistency detection function work?
- Examples of industries where translation consistency is crucial
- The role of technology in eliminating terminology inconsistencies
Niespójność terminologiczna w tekście może wywołać u czytelnika konsternację. Powoduje ona, że instrukcja, ulotka informacyjna czy ważne dokumenty takie jak umowy stają się niezrozumiałe ze względu na ich nieprofesjonalne tłumaczenie. Istnieje jednak narzędzie, które wychwytuje rozbieżności, gdy tłumacz zaczyna się gubić w terminologii. Poznaj LivoCAT – innowacyjną platformę wspierającą spójność w tłumaczeniach na każdym etapie pracy nad tekstem.
When can terminology inconsistencies occur in translation?
Terminology inconsistency occurs when the same terms or phrases are translated differently within a single document (or a series of related texts). For example, this happens when the same term is translated using synonyms (e.g., “implementation” translated as both “implementation” and “deployment”) or when the same word is written in different forms (e.g., “e-mail” and “email”).
Without a proper tool to monitor terminology consistency, the risk of inconsistencies increases – especially as the text length grows.
Why is terminology consistency important, and why are inconsistencies a problem?
Terminology inconsistencies can have serious consequences for readers as well as for translators and their clients. For the reader, they often lead to:
- Misinterpretation of the text or its meaning – particularly problematic in instructional or technical texts,
- More difficult comprehension – readers may wonder whether different terms refer to the same concept or to different aspects, often requiring them to reread sections to understand the overall meaning,
- Reduced trust in the text and its authors – inconsistencies can be perceived as unprofessional,
- Confusion while reading – readers may be unsure what terms refer to even if they have been mentioned earlier.
The same component in a furniture assembly manual being called a “screw” in one place and a “bolt” in another creates confusion for the reader. The same applies to documents: if one paragraph refers to a “client” and another to a “customer,” the content may seem inconsistent.
Terminology inconsistency and translator workflow
For translators and translation agencies, terminology inconsistency means the text is not properly translated. Consequences include:
- Extra time required for thorough proofreading,
- Risk of complaints from dissatisfied clients,
- Damage to professional reputation,
- Loss of client trust, reducing chances for future assignments.
Detecting inconsistencies during translation causes fewer problems than correcting errors in completed documents. This is why it is useful to use tools that highlight inconsistently translated terms during the translation process.
How does the inconsistency detection function work?
LivoCAT (a CAT – Computer-Assisted Translation – tool) provides advanced features that help translators maintain terminology consistency in their translations. Its approach to detecting inconsistencies is multidimensional. LivoCAT is a translation tool designed for companies and freelancers who want to deliver professional translations to their clients.
Real-time linguistic analysis for maintaining terminology consistency
LivoCAT’s inconsistency detection uses an advanced linguistic analysis mechanism. It works by:
- Comparing segments throughout the text
- Identifying grammatical forms and the context in which terms are used in different segments.
Linguistic analysis occurs in real time. Translators receive alerts about potential inconsistencies as they work, which is far more convenient than having errors highlighted only after the text is completed.
Integration with terminology databases for consistency monitoring
LivoCAT integrates with existing terminology resources. It compares terms used in the translation with those in the client’s glossary, monitoring compliance with approved terminology. Thanks to this integration, LivoCAT becomes more than just an error detection tool – it acts as an assistant helping maintain terminology consistency.
Notification and suggestion system – ensuring translation consistency
Detecting potential inconsistencies is the first step toward producing a professionally translated text.
Examples of industries where translation consistency is crucial
While consistency is important in every text, some industries require particularly high standards:
- Legal – in legal translations, every word matters, and translation errors can have serious consequences. Terminology consistency is essential for contracts, agreements, court documents, and legal acts.
- Medical and pharmaceutical – terminology inconsistencies in medical translations can directly affect patient safety. Consistency is critical when translating drug leaflets, medical device manuals, or treatment documentation.
- Technology and IT – consistency matters in technical documentation, such as device manuals, user interfaces, or training materials. Poorly translated content can lead to equipment damage or difficulty using new software features.
The role of technology in eliminating terminology inconsistencies
Translation management systems help improve the workflow for translators and translation agencies. Key components include a TMS and LivoCAT, which rely on translation memories (TM) and glossaries. Today, technology significantly reduces terminology inconsistencies. In a follow-up post, we will explain the technical implementation of inconsistency detection and the results achieved with early clients.
