How to Use a Translator and Get Grammatically Accurate Results

Machine Translators Shouldn’t Replace a Bilingual Dictionary

When you need to translate a single word, it is best to avoid machine translators and opt for a dictionary, such as SpanishDict.com. Machine translators will not know the part of speech you are trying to translate. For example, the word advance can be used as a noun, verb, or adjective. Also, machine translators do not take regional differences into account.

Simplifying Grammar and Vocabulary

When using a machine translator, it is important to keep the text as simple as possible. The more abstract the text, the more errors you'll see. You should avoid idiomatic expressions, use basic grammar, and use words that don’t have multiple meanings. In other words, simplify your sentence as much as possible before typing it into the translator.

Providing Necessary Context

You should always remember that machine translators are not familiar with real-world context. They do not know things like who we are talking to or what type of situation we are in, unless we specify them. If you type a question into a machine translator, you are likely to get a translation using the informal singular form of the verb. But what if you are talking to someone formally or to a group of people? Just add context, and you are more likely to get a more accurate translation. For example, instead of just entering Can you give me directions?, try Can you give me directions, sir? This simple one-word addition may be enough to generate a translation that is more appropriate when addressing someone you don't know. Machine translations should always be viewed as a rough draft that you potentially have to modify to make sure it makes sense in the real-world context the text applies to.

Using Correct Grammar and Punctuation

Simply put, if the original text has incorrect grammar and punctuation, it is likely that the translation will also have incorrect grammar and punctuation.

Revising your Translations

When you use machine translators, you shouldn't automatically assume that the translation given is correct. Double-checking the translation is a great habit to adopt. You can double-check the accuracy by breaking the sentence down into chunks and verifying the vocabulary and grammar with other sources. In addition to proofreading the grammar and vocabulary, you need to make sure the translation makes sense. As previously mentioned, machine translations should always be viewed as a rough draft.

Adding a Human Touch

Machine translators are useful, but they cannot replace human translators. If you are using a machine translator to communicate, try to add a personal touch. Let’s say you are posting on your Chilean friend’s Facebook wall. Do some research on common Chilean phrases/slang and try to incorporate some.

Not All Translators are Created Equal

Some translators are better than others. Do your research, especially if using a translator for business purposes. When translating serious documents, such as medical records or legal documentation, a professional translation service would be the best choice.