Enhancing AI translation quality through human checks

Language is a cornerstone of humanity, shaping how we connect and understand the world. German philosopher Hans-Georg Gadamer remarked that translation “comprises in its essence the whole secret of human understanding of the world and of social communication.”

As a translation agency with over three decades of experience, we’re dedicated to meticulously translating and honing texts – which our clients themselves have spent significant time crafting. At first glance, incorporating AI into this deeply human process might appear counterintuitive. Yet, when thoughtfully applied and paired with rigorous human oversight, AI can offer certain efficiencies for some clients. Still, true excellence in translation transcends algorithms, requiring the nuance and insight that only human expertise can provide.

In this blog we examine the limitations of relying solely on AI translation and the value of combining AI with human checks (or post-editing) to ensure accuracy, efficiency and authenticity, and ultimately, a more professional outcome.

 

The challenges of AI translation

AI translation, powered by large language models (LLMs), is an emerging technology that leverages vast databases of pre-existing translations to convey the general meaning of text in another language. 

When precision, style and nuance are not critical, AI translation can be an effective tool for navigating both the online and offline world. Are you curious about what’s on a restaurant menu in Spain? Go ahead and give it a try. Do you need to make sense of a marketing email from an online marketplace in China? Why not!

But what about languages or topics without significant content available for the LLMs? The less common the language, the less reference material for the machines to work on, meaning less accurate or appropriate translations. Fast-moving, technical topics present the same challenges. By contrast, human translators will research the latest technology, how it’s being discussed and what terminology is being used, consulting with the client or another expert to select the right terms. AI doesn’t. 

And what about sarcasm, irony, humour and cultural nuance? Machines still struggle to distinguish between a lighthearted remark and a serious statement, let alone ensure that a translation resonates with a local audience rather than inadvertently causing offence.

AI is also expected to be cheaper than human translation, but when significant editing is required to bring the translations up to standard, that comes at a price.

AI translation may be one possible opening chapter in the translation process, but it’s not the whole story. Enter the humans.

 

Bridging the gap: how humans improve AI translation accuracy

Relying solely on AI to capture cultural nuances, subtext and the appropriate terminology, tone and style in translation is risky business. Humans remain an indispensable part of the equation, much like the Mona Lisa’s smile or the Empire State Building’s silhouette in New York’s skyline. Their expertise ensures that your translation retains the intended meaning, tone and cultural sensitivity while using the correct terminology and phrasing to communicate accurately and authentically with your target audience.

From small tweaks to complete revisions, skilled human linguists play a crucial role in post-editing, ensuring that AI-generated translations are not only accurate but also culturally relevant and tailored to your specific needs. This is especially vital in specialised fields like market research, medical, legal and technical sectors, where precision is non-negotiable.

Key human checks in the post-editing process include:

• Guaranteeing accurate content: verifying that the translation faithfully conveys the original message while avoiding potential miscommunication or ambiguity.
• Maintaining consistency in specialist terms: researching industry-specific or technical terminology to ensure it has been translated correctly and consistently. This is a common challenge for AI tools and is particularly important in, for example, legal contracts, scientific publications and medical records. 
• Cultural adaptation: adapting idioms, metaphors and cultural references to ensure the translation fully resonates with the target audience and avoids misunderstandings or offence.
• Tone alignment: refining the tone to match the brand’s voice and the content’s purpose. For example, deciding whether the translation should be formal, informal, friendly or professional based on the audience and context.
• Improving readability and flow: polishing sentence structures and word choices to ensure natural, engaging and smooth-flowing text. This is especially important for creative or marketing content where impact matters.
• Correcting grammar and syntax: addressing grammar and structural complexities to ensure adherence to local language rules, enhancing readability and professionalism.
• Replicating style and relevance: stylistic choices can have a great impact on the authenticity and relevance of content for native speakers. Making the right choices shows empathy and a deeper understanding of your audience.
• Problem solving: unlike AI, human translators can reason, research and resolve ambiguities in complex texts, ensuring the final product is clear, accurate and relevant.
• Meeting high-quality standards: upholding rigorous quality standards, particularly for regulated industries such as finance and healthcare, where accuracy and compliance are critical.
• Security for confidential content: for sensitive or confidential materials, human oversight helps safeguard privacy, maintain ethical standards and comply with legal requirements, ensuring your content is handled with care.

Humans – the final word

However much, or little, you use machines or AI in your translation process, humans should always have the final say. Whether conveying brand identity and values through your marketing materials or contacting patients in a new pharmaceutical research project, it’s essential to communicate accurately, authentically and appropriately with your target audience. The human linguist’s final review of your translation could make all the difference when it comes to winning a new client.

 

Trust TLF’s expert human translation services

At TLF, we combine a team of 1,000 mother-tongue human translators with expert Project Managers. All our translators have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in their chosen field, hold a Diploma, BA or MA in translation and professional members of a recognised translation body. This has earned us a 97% client satisfaction rating for translation quality.

Contact the TLF team to find out how we can work with you to improve the quality of your next AI translation.