Latest update date: February 10, 06

No matter how good a translator is, they can still make mistakes. Minor typographical or grammatical errors may not look good on a translated document, but errors related to the meaning of words or phrases, omissions of sentences or incomplete sentences/ideas will affect affect the entire text and even change the main meaning.

When translators reread the entire text they just translated, they may not spot errors. Therefore, proofreading translation is very necessary. It should be done by professional proofreaders and proofreaders who are trained linguists who speak the language of the source text and the target text.

Each full-service translation agency offers proofreading along with translation services. You can see below why this is important and how proofreading improves the quality of the translated text.

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What is proofreading and why is it necessary?

In general, proofreading means checking the original copy or electronic version of a publication to detect and correct textual or artistic production errors. In other words, in this translation it means reading and marking errors on a given text and then correcting them.

Proofreading is necessary, as it ensures that the quality of service provided is the best possible. While the translator works, they may overlook some mistakes or choose an inappropriate word. The proofreader's job is to find those errors and correct them, so that the final version of the text is error-free.
What is the difference between proofreading and debugging?

In some cases, a proofreader's service can be divided into two separate tasks: proofreading and revising. There is a difference between the two jobs in the sense that they include:

  • Proofreading is for target text only. In other words, it involves a text and a language – the target languages.
  • Translation modification is performed when both the source and the target text are present and there is a comparison. It involves two texts and two languages ​​– the source and the target text.
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Based on the foregoing, it can be concluded that the re-reading is for the purpose of checking whether the text makes sense and that all the sentences have been completed. It corrects typos, grammar and style errors but does not guarantee 100% correctness of the meaning and nuance of the original text, as it does not appear to be comparable.

The revision is intended to correct all proofreading errors and in addition to compare two texts to ensure that all nuances and styles are present and that the correct words in the translated text are used. convey exactly the same meaning as the source material. Revisions may also include changing the appearance of the target text, so that it has the same layout as the source text.

Most revisions and proofreading cases are combined into one and presented in proofreading terms. However, some proofreaders make a clear distinction between both of these services, so be sure to clarify exactly what you need when contacting one.

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Why is it not correct to just use spell check?

According to the definition given by the Oxford dictionary, a spell checker is a computer program that checks the spelling of words in a text, usually by comparison with a stored list of words. In other words, it checks if the word you have written exists and if it is spelled correctly, however it does not show if the words are used appropriately. For example, “We except your offer”, is a sentence approved by the spell checker because all the words exist and are spelled correctly, however the word except incorrectly used instead of the word accept.

So while the spell checker is a good tool to use to correct spelling errors while you write and/or translate, it should not be used as a single tool in correcting all the spelling mistakes. error of the translated text.

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So how to be a professional proofreader?

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The proofreader is a professional translator who provides one more service – proofreading the translation once it is completed. To do the best job, proofreaders should:

  • Has the same language combination as the original translator of the text
  • Have expertise in the same field of translation – document translation, diploma or certificate translation (link to the article How to translate diplomas and certificates), literary translation, technical translation, etc.
  • Accessible to both source and target text
  • Preferably a native speaker of the target language
  • Attention to detail in the text
  • Have a good knowledge of linguistic aspects and cultural nuances of both languages ​​ngôn

Final proofreaders should be experienced which is also a plus and especially knowledge of the latest CAT tools is a must. The editor's job is to ensure that the final version of the translated text does not contain any typos, grammar, and typographical errors. The meaning and tone of the target text should be the same as the source text. There should be no contradiction or ambiguity.

Proofreading is an essential part of the complete translation service provided by translation agencies. If a translated text is proofread, it means that the quality is much higher and the possibility of errors is reduced to a minimum. You may end up paying a little extra for this service, but the investment is well worth it as your documents are now defect free and you won't be embarrassed in front of colleagues, partners or customer.

Contact us today for the fastest service quote and consultation.

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