What are the most common errors in bilingual technical communications?

1 Terminology issues

One of the main challenges of bilingual technical communications is to use the appropriate terminology in both languages, and to ensure that it is consistent throughout the document. Terminology issues can arise from various sources, such as lack of research, insufficient knowledge of the subject matter, inadequate use of glossaries or dictionaries, or confusion between synonyms or homonyms. Terminology issues can lead to misunderstandings, ambiguities, or inaccuracies, and damage the credibility and reliability of your document. To avoid them, you should always consult reliable sources, use specialized tools, and follow the standards and conventions of your field and your target audience.

2 Syntax and grammar errors

Another common type of error in bilingual technical communications is related to syntax and grammar. Syntax and grammar errors are mistakes in the structure, order, or rules of the language, such as word order, punctuation, verb tense, agreement, or spelling. Syntax and grammar errors can affect the readability, coherence, and logic of your document, and make it difficult or confusing for your readers to follow your message. To prevent them, you should always proofread and edit your document carefully, use grammar checkers or software, and seek feedback from native speakers or experts.

3 Style and tone inconsistencies

A third type of error that can affect the quality of your bilingual technical communications is related to style and tone. Style and tone are the choices of words, expressions, and formats that you use to convey your message, and that reflect your purpose, audience, and context. Style and tone inconsistencies are discrepancies or variations in the way you communicate in both languages, such as using different levels of formality, register, or politeness, or using different formats, layouts, or fonts. Style and tone inconsistencies can reduce the professionalism, coherence, and attractiveness of your document, and create a mismatch between your intention and your impression. To avoid them, you should always adapt your style and tone to the purpose, audience, and context of your document, and use consistent guidelines, templates, or formats.

4 Cultural and linguistic differences

A fourth type of error that can affect the quality of your bilingual technical communications is related to cultural and linguistic differences. Cultural and linguistic differences are the variations or contrasts that exist between different languages, cultures, or regions, such as idioms, metaphors, symbols, units, or references. Cultural and linguistic differences can cause misinterpretation, confusion, or offense, and affect the relevance and appropriateness of your document. To prevent them, you should always be aware of the cultural and linguistic characteristics of your source and target languages, and use strategies such as localization, adaptation, or transcreation to make your document suitable and appealing for your target audience.

5 Translation errors

A fifth type of error that can affect the quality of your bilingual technical communications is related to translation. Translation errors are mistakes that occur during the process of transferring the meaning and the message from one language to another, such as omissions, additions, distortions, or mistranslations. Translation errors can affect the accuracy, clarity, and consistency of your document, and compromise the content and the function of your document. To avoid them, you should always use qualified and experienced translators, follow the best practices and standards of translation, and use quality assurance and revision methods to check and improve your translation.

6 Technical errors

A sixth and final type of error that can affect the quality of your bilingual technical communications is related to technical aspects. Technical errors are mistakes that occur in the production, distribution, or use of your document, such as formatting, layout, design, or functionality issues. Technical errors can affect the usability, accessibility, and appearance of your document, and make it difficult or impossible for your readers to access, read, or interact with your document. To prevent them, you should always use appropriate and compatible tools, software, and platforms, test and debug your document, and follow the technical specifications and requirements of your document.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?