Translating, editing and proofreading: the process for a ‘good’ translation

Translating, editing and proofreading: the process for a ‘good’ translation

Have you ever wondered if translating a text was as easy as just translating it? Well, as it turns out, many professionals argue that that is just not enough. As a matter of fact, there are three steps in the process of translating a text that need to be followed in order to achieve a high-quality translation: translating, editing – or copyediting – and proofreading. So, if you are ready, let’s talk about this ‘simple’ process.

§  Translating: the obvious first step

The first and most obvious step is translating. However, this is a complex process that needs some effort and time in order to properly do it. At its core, it can be basically defined as carrying a message from one language – the source language – into a target language. Many theorists have argued this idea for centuries and the discussion is still going on through the several waves of translation studies that keep evolving.  However, many come together and share the common belief that the translated text should seem as natural as possible, which means that any and every translator should aspire to be invisible.

So, overall, translators can be seen as the first line of defense or as the first responders. Their work is crucial and that is the reason why it is the most well-known step out of the three. They have to produce a translated version which usually follows certain criteria pre-established by the client or the project manager. Nevertheless, translators are human beings and, even if they are professionals, they can still miss tiny details. In this case, a second line of defense could be helpful, and some would go as far as to say that it is necessary. 

§  Copyediting: the often forgotten second step

Thankfully, translation companies have taken this into consideration and have come up with a solution that is supposed to make sure that none of those small and pesky details are ever overlooked: translators adopt a second responsibility and become copyeditors.

Once a translation is completed, the editing phase begins. Usually, the copyeditor is the same translator who carried out the previous step as they have a better understanding of the source text. Nonetheless, having a fresh pair of eyes take a look at what has been done can be even more beneficial since they are not biased.

Even though copyediting is a lesser-known task, it is, in my opinion, the most important one. But what is it exactly? Well, copyediting can be defined as the phase in which the translation is examined in depth, making sure that there are no issues regarding flow, consistency, semantics, jargon, syntax, and terminology. To cut it short, it is thee phase in which the translation is revised to ensure consistency, cohesiveness and accuracy throughout the whole document. Once the editor is satisfied with the quality of the translation, then it is passed on to the next person who will finish the quality assessment.

§  Proofreading: the underrated final step

We have finally made it to the last stage of this process and many wonder about the actual need for it after an extensive in-depth analysis of the translated text. Well, according to translation professionals and translation agencies who have years of experience, this is an essential part of delivering a high-quality document.

This part is controversial due to its similarity with copyediting. However, a proofreader will not be correcting the same elements as they will not be looking at the same details. Their job is particularly important if a translation has been carried out by different translators or if it has been edited a few times. A proofreader’s job is divided into three main assignments. First of all, they have to make sure that the translation is understandable and reads well. Second of all, they check the text to make sure that there are no punctuation, grammar and/or spelling errors left. Last but not least, they make sure that the document is formatted correctly and follows the guidelines established by the client or the project manager.

If any translation is done by following these three steps, then you can be certain of the quality of the work. Although it may seem like a long and hard process, translation agencies and freelance translators choose to respect these steps as they do work well in the end.

José C.

Sources:

https://www.daytranslations.com/blog/copyediting-proofreading-translation/

https://www.aceproof.com/translation-quality/translation-editing-proofreading-tep/

https://www.capitatranslationinterpreting.com/editing-vs-proofreading-whats-the-difference/

https://www.onehourtranslation.com/translation/blog/are-you-invisible-translator

https://www.onehourtranslation.com/translation/blog/true-meaning-translation