6 Common Technical Translation Problems and How to Solve Them
Technical translation is more complex than general translation because it requires high accuracy, technical knowledge, and consistent wording. These documents are often used in situations involving machines, equipment, safety rules, or software. If the translation is unclear, it can cause confusion, safety issues, legal trouble, or financial loss, which is why it needs careful handling.
Technical translation is needed in fields like engineering, medicine, software, manufacturing, and science. It includes manuals, safety instructions, product specifications, installation guides, and software text, which is why many organisations rely on precise translations for healthcare content to ensure accuracy and safety. Incorrect translation can lead to improper product use or a misunderstanding of important information.
Below are six common problems that occur in technical translation and simple ways to solve them.
1. Terminology Inconsistency
The Problem
Technical documents use many industry-specific terms, acronyms, and labels. These terms must be translated the same way each time. When terms are translated differently across documents, it confuses readers and reduces the professional quality of the text.
How to Solve It
To avoid this, it is helpful to create a glossary that lists key terms along with their approved translations. The glossary should include acronyms, symbols, and special words related to the field.
2. Lack of Context
The Problem
Technical translators sometimes receive short text sections without context. For example, software text like “Apply,” “Close,” or “Back” might appear without showing where they are used.
How to Solve It
Translators should request screenshots, reference documents, or product samples when needed. If something is unclear, asking questions is better than guessing.
3. Untranslatable Elements
The Problem
Some parts of technical documents should not be translated, such as product codes, software commands, formulas, units of measurement, chemical symbols, and serial numbers.
How to Solve It
Translators should follow instructions about what must remain in the original language. Tools can also lock these elements to prevent errors.
4. Cultural and Regional Differences
The Problem
Different countries use different standards. For example, they may use different measurement systems, date formats, voltage standards, or safety regulations.
How to Solve It
Instead of only translating, the content should be adapted for the target region. This may include changing measurement units, adjusting date formats, or updating safety information.
5. Poor Source Text Quality
The Problem
Sometimes the original document is unclear, incomplete, or contains mistakes. This makes translation difficult and increases the chance of errors.
How to Solve It
Translators should ask for clarification whenever possible. If allowed, they can correct the source text before translating.
6. Layout and Formatting Issues
The Problem
Technical documents often include diagrams, tables, and charts. After translation, the text may become longer or shorter, which can break the layout and make the document look messy.
How to Solve It
Documents should be designed with flexible spacing to allow text expansion. Translators and designers should work together to avoid layout problems.
Final Thoughts
Technical translation is not only about language. It requires technical understanding, precise terminology, cultural awareness, and careful formatting. By preparing well and focusing on consistency, context, and layout, translators can avoid many common problems and produce accurate, safe, and useful documents.