Technical translation fulfils an important need in a variety of industries and disciplines around the world: the accurate and efficient translation of specialised technical texts. In this article, we will examine what technical translation is, how it works and why it is so critical with examples from the field.

What is Technical Translation?

Technical translation is the process of professionally translating technical texts from one language into another. These texts are used in different fields such as engineering, medicine, science, informatics and industrial sectors. Technical translators must understand the technical terminology in the source language and express it correctly in the target language.

How does it work?

Technical translators start by analysing the source text. They then translate this text into the target language, but try to preserve not only the words but also the technical meaning and context of the original text. This process requires a careful knowledge of grammar and terminology.

Why is Technical Translation Necessary?

Technical translation is a critical requirement in many fields:

1. Engineering: If you are conducting an international construction project, accurate translation of technical documents is critical to the success of the project. For example, when a car manufacturer wants to promote the technical specifications of a new model worldwide, it needs technical translation services.
2. Medicine: Pharmaceutical manufacturing, clinical trials and medical devices require accurate and precise translations. A pharmaceutical company needs technical translation services when presenting the side effects and instructions for use of a new drug to international markets.
3. Science and Research: Scientific articles, research results and scientific data must be read by scientists worldwide. Accurate translation of these texts facilitates the sharing of scientific progress.

Technical Translation Examples

– An energy company is planning to build a new solar power plant. The project documents are translated by technical translators in the target country in accordance with the requirements of the business.

– A pharmaceutical company submits clinical trials of a new drug to an international drug regulatory organisation. The reports containing the results of these studies are translated accurately and precisely by technical translators.

– A scientific research institution wants to communicate the findings of a new discovery to other scientists around the world. The details of this discovery are presented to the worldwide scientific community through technical translation services.

Conclusion

Technical translation provides accurate translations of texts that require specialisation in different industries. It is used in every field from engineering to medicine and science and facilitates global co-operation. Technical translation services are of great importance in areas such as business, science and healthcare and facilitate international communication.