Common Challenges in Machine Translation Post-Editing and How to Overcome Them

MTPE (Machine Translation Post Editing) has proved to be a game-changing factor for the translation sector as it combines machine-generated speed with human editor nuanced understanding. Yet, the process is not that easy to do. Post-editors face multiple challenges when creating a quality output using machine translations. This article discusses these issues and provides practical solutions to overcome them.

The Nature of Machine Translation Post-Editing

Machine translation post-editing is where human translators objectively scrutinize and validate the text translated by machine translation systems. In this process, human post-editors delve into the output from machine translation, correcting errors and adjusting to achieve coherence, combatting grammatical mistakes, and following standard style or terminology requirements.?

The goal of MTPE is to improve machine output quality, accuracy, and fluency, achieve the desired output level, and deliver the intended message in different languages. MTPE types can range from light post-editing, where we tend to deal directly with obvious errors, to full post-editing, where we try to achieve a polished and thoroughly reviewed final product.?

The use of MTPE is more common where large volume of text need to be translated quickly and economically, for example, in the localization of websites, software, or non-public facing documentation.

Common Challenges & Solutions in Machine Translation Post-Editing

While performing MTPE, you may face several obstacles. However, knowing how to tackle these issues can make the process effective. So, check out the list of major issues along with their solutions listed below:?

1. Translation Inaccuracy?

Inaccuracy of initial translations is one of the most common problems in machine translation post-editing. Machines can sometimes misinterpret idiomatic expressions, technical terms, or complex sentence structures. This confuses the post-editing experts, and it takes them longer to review the output correctly.?

To tackle this issue, hire a post editor who takes the time to become familiar with the subject matter and context of the text. Once they have this knowledge, they will be able to see and fix mistakes accurately. Additionally, provide them with the glossaries and reference documents to access the list of standard terminologies you want to use in the translation.

2. Gaps and Redundancies

This challenge involves a scenario where a machine translation omits important information or erroneously adds additional information that isn't available in the source text. This leads to an output with a completely different meaning.

Thus, you must always compare the machine-generated text with the source document. Attention to fine details means including all the right content and removing extra words. A good way to catch these errors is by reading through a copy thoroughly before the text is finalized.

3. Grammatical and Syntax Errors

The problem with machine translations is that they often have grammatical or syntactical mistakes that hinder comprehension. These issues can involve anything from the use of wrong word order, wrong punctuation, or wrong tense.

After you find the grammatical errors in those sentences, rewrite them to make them clearer. If you can't rewrite particular translated phrases, check style guides and go through professional sources to learn how to make the reading fluent and better.

4. Word-to-Word Translations

Often, machines just translate phrases literally, disregarding the cultural and contextual meanings. As a result, you can end up with documents that have nonsensical phrases.?

Find out about the cultural confines of the languages your documents need to be translated into.?

As you edit, compare the machine's versions to how native speakers of the target language would express the same thing. This can involve phrasing the translated sentences in another way to resonate with the target audience.

5. Lack of Contextual Awareness

It's not surprising that machines have limited ability to contextualize. Thus, the translation ends up missing much of the text's richness. This misleads readers into understanding the meaning of the given text.

Take the time to understand the context in which the text will be used. To do so, make sure that the output fits together with the source material's message and tone when editing the translation. It may entail rephrasing all or part of one section for the sake of coherence.

6. Translation Limitations on Technical and Specialized Language

MT systems have a hard time translating technical or specialized terms. The translation of jargon or industry-specific terms may be incorrectly interpreted, affecting the integrity of the output. Use industry reports or glossaries designed explicitly for the industry your business belongs to. When you are not sure of the subject matter, consult with experts to clarify whether your translations remain accurate and credible.

7. Formatting Issues

A problem with machine translation is that the output is not always formatted consistently, meaning it may not use the correct font, display bullet points, or numbering. Before finalizing a version, check consistency in formatting and presentation. Such attention to detail engages readers by making the translated document look professional. To make the process easier, you can also use tools dedicated to desktop publishing.?

8. Cultural Sensitivity and Localization

Cultural nuances depend highly on a translation. Like human translations, machine translations will or will not be able to fully deconstruct cultural undertones in some phrases, leaving room for misinterpretation.

Thus, your editing process should also include cultural sensitivity. So, whenever you can, adjust phrases that don't translate well across cultures and consider how local customs or preferences might affect how people receive the text. This is especially important when dealing with marketing or customer-facing materials.

Practical Tips for Effective Machine Translation Post-Editing

To make your MTPE process more efficient, apply these tips:?

1. Develop a Clear Editing Strategy: Based on the project requirements, decide whether you will perform light or full post-editing. The first category ensures legibility, and the second ensures accuracy and fluency.

2. Use Technology to Your Advantage: Use Computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools to ensure consistent translations. They allow you to keep a glossary of standard terms, leading to seamless modifications.

3. Establish Collaboration: Establish good communication sources among involved editors. Hold frequent meetings to keep everyone aware of the best practices to follow.

4. Stay Informed of Advancements in Machine Translation: Stay updated with the latest MT trends and tools to significantly improve your efficiency and effectiveness.

5. Seek Feedback: Ask colleagues or clients for feedback on your translations. Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for improvement.

Overcome MTPE Challenges with Expert Guidance

Understanding these challenges and implementing targeted strategies can enhance your effectiveness as a post-editor. As you navigate the complexities of MTPE, consider Hansem Global as your trusted ally in delivering accurate translated documents. With a commitment to quality and a team of experienced linguists, we can help ensure that your projects meet and exceed your expectations.

FAQs

1. Who should consider using MTPE services?

MTPE is often beneficial for businesses needing cost-effective, rapid translations for large volumes of content—such as e-commerce, customer support, or technical documentation. It's ideal for companies seeking both efficiency and quality.

2. What skills do post-editors need for MTPE?

Post-editors require solid linguistic skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with the subject matter and target audience. They should also understand the strengths and limitations of machine translation tools.

3. What languages are most compatible with machine translation post-editing?

MTPE works best for languages that machine translation engines handle well, such as English, Spanish, and French