When availing the academic translation services, it is important to ensure consistency of the different terminologies used. Consistent use of words not only helps the readers in easily understanding the content but also prevents potential confusion. It is important to ensure timely and accurate translations of academic and other professional documents.
What is terminology?
Terminology refers to the different terms used within a specific context. Consistent terminology means using the terms in such a way that their meanings remain the same throughout the document. Here are some of the academic and professional documents that require the use of consistent terminology during translation.
- Scientific texts
- Letters
- Articles
- Research papers
- Academic writings
- Legal documents
- Brochures
- Instruction manuals
Consistency Errors
When availing academic translation services, the most common type of consistency errors that you may come across include:
- Inconsistent terminology
- Incorrect terminology
- Ambiguous terminology
The Essentials of Consistent Terminology
Now that you have a basic idea about consistent terminology and its importance in academic translation services, here are the essentials you need to look for. Let’s dive in!
1. Avoid Ambiguity
In order to ensure that reader is able to find the meaning of the academic or professional document, it is important to avoid any kind of ambiguity. Make sure to be very concise, consistent, and clear when selecting the words and avoid changing the terms frequently in the documents. For instance, if you have used “keys” as the term for computer keyboards, use that term throughout the document and avoid switching to “buttons” later on.
2. Avoid Using Same Terms for Different Concepts
A number of terms have dual meanings. When translating content to the target language, make sure to avoid using the same terms to refer to two different concepts. For example, make sure not to use the term “agent” in order to refer to a process as well as a person.
3. Standardize the Spelling of Words
Many terminologies have different spellings. While using such terms in your academic or professional documents, make sure only one spelling is used throughout the content to avoid confusion. For instance, if you have used the spelling “colours’, stick to it throughout the document and do not use the spelling “colors.”
4. Avoid Using Fabricated Words
It might be tempting to use fabricated words within the academic and professional documents, but it is better to avoid them. Some examples of such words include edutainment and marketecture. While such terms have one meaning in a particular culture, they may have another meaning in a different culture.
5. Use Correct Terminology
When availing the academic translation services, it is important to ensure that correct terms and vocabulary are used. Only by using the appropriate and relevant terms, the quality of the academic documents can be increased.
How to use Google Translate for academic translation?
- Go to the Google Translate home page.
- Select your language or dialect for translation.
- Paste the URL into the translate box (if your article is available online).
- In case your article is not available online, save it on your computer (PDF, TXT, DOC, PPT, XLS or RTF format) and then click ‘translate your document’ link.
- Press the translate button.
However, Google Translate and other free online tools are not accurate.
Do you need help with translation?
Avail of the services of the professional translators and get accurate translation in much less time. The use of consistent terminology in academic and professional documents is important to ensure the accuracy and quality of academic translation services. In order to ensure consistency, it is essential to avoid ambiguity, avoid fabricated words, standardize spellings, and use the right terms.
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