Last week, we looked at the three quality aspects that it is important to consider when editing a translation. Now, let’s talk about various quality levels for translations, based on their use and their content. We will discuss Levels A, B and C and identify the best translation/editing process for each quality level.
- Level A: At this level are documents that provide information, but in everyday language. Three basic types are urgent documents, temporary documents (often electronic), and reference documents. The best translation/editing process for Level A documents involves three steps:
- Translation;
- Bilingual revision (comparing each sentence of the translation to the original document);
- Formatting/proofreading.
- Level B: This level includes permanent documents written in non-academic language: for example, booklets, and conversational style books. Also included in this category are documents that use a lot of idioms, allusions or colloquialisms; these require special treatment. The best translation/editing process for Level B documents involves FOUR steps:
- Translation;
- Bilingual revision;
- STYLISTIC REVISION (making sure the translation is pleasant to read for a native speaker)
- Formatting/proofreading .
- Level C: This top level involves documents written in formal or academic language: textbooks, specialized training books, doctrinal and research-type books. Also included in this category is promotional material that is designed to make a good impression, including websites. The best translation/editing process for Level B documents involves FOUR steps with additional criteria:
- Translation BY AN EXPERIENCED TRANSLATOR;
- Bilingual revision;
- Stylistic revision BY AN EXPERIENCED REVISER;
- Formatting/proofreading .
Next week, we will look more closely at bilingual revision and how it is crucial to the quality aspect of Fidelity (Faithfulness) in your translations. Stay tuned!
Have a great day!
Liane 🙂
