Machine Translation Post Editing (MTPE) is a process that involves editing machine-generated translations to improve their quality and ensure accuracy. It combines the efficiency of machine translation with the expertise of human editors to deliver high-quality translations. MTPE is particularly useful in situations where speed and cost-effectiveness are important factors, but a human touch is still required to refine the output.
When compared to traditional human translation, MTPE offers a more economical solution for certain types of content. It is especially suitable for publicly displayed texts that consist of full sentences and have a relatively fixed structure. Examples of such content include reviews, product descriptions, website content, or social media posts meant to be display publicly and have clear paragraph structures. By utilizing machine translation as a starting point, the editing process becomes faster and less time-consuming, resulting in cost savings for clients.
However, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your translation project when choosing between human translation and MTPE. Human translation is still the preferred option for content that requires a nuanced understanding of context, cultural sensitivity, or specialized subject matter. Complex legal documents, medical texts, or creative writing pieces often require the expertise and cultural knowledge of a professional human translator to ensure accurate and natural-sounding translations. Additionally, if your text contains idiomatic expressions, technical terminology, or industry-specific jargon, human translation is more likely to provide the desired level of quality and precision.
In summary, when speed and cost-efficiency are crucial, machine translation post editing can be a viable option. It is particularly suitable for publicly displayed texts with straightforward sentence structures. However, for content that demands a higher level of accuracy, cultural adaptation, or specialized knowledge, opting for human translation services is still recommended. A careful assessment of your project requirements and consulting with language professionals can help you make the best choice for your translation needs.