Just use Google Translate! MMMM…not so fast. Clearly, there’s no denying that computers are getting way too smart for our liking nowadays.
Although Google Translate is a great tool for when you’re traveling or stuck on a phrase in Italian class, strictly relying on them could leave you in a bit of a pickle.
Let’s see why.
WHY USING A HUMAN TRANSLATOR IS BETTER
The fact is, Machine Learning (ML) technology often has difficulties with complex sentences because of how literal the meaning is when trying to translate them from one language into another. Which means there can always be some errors even after rigorous testing and analysis.
Google Translate’s language database is continuously growing, it only has the ability to translate up to 103 languages right now. With at least 6,909 distinct languages in the world, this limits Google Translate’s ability.
Human translators have a much larger and more diverse database of languages from which they can choose. Furthermore, they are able to account for regional variations in a language that might be present on either side due to its expertise with cultural awareness throughout all regions across the globe!
For example, there are 34 dialects in Italy from the top to the tip of the boot. Saying a phrase like “let’s go” in Northern Italy is “andiamo” in the Southern Regions it’s “ammunninni”. Similar but not really and how you address people with certain phrases makes a difference. The last thing you want to do is insult someone in another language.
But this is not the only reason to use a humar translator. They also provide:
- More accuracy;
- A better understanding of idioms;
- Better selection of the words;
- Proper grammar;
- A wide variety of Languages
- Help maintain the correct formality and tone.
WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE TO USE AN ONLINE TRANSLATOR
It’s a quick and easy fix for when you need translation of a language on the spot.
Even though there are discrepancies in the translation, a lot of people are still turning to online translators instead of human translators.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found, people are more likely to trust an online translator than they are to trust a human translator.
Why?
Simply because there’s this perception that humans can get tired or that they’ll do things like change their translations for personal gain.
But remember, there’s simply no way to incorporate context, which is especially important for when words have multiple meanings.
Technology has made our lives easier in many ways, but there are still some things that can’t be translated by a machine.
It may seem like Google Translate is accurate and its errors go unnoticed, it does make a huge difference.
But the truth of reality is sometimes people feel misunderstood because their message was taken differently than intended when using this tool. As such it’s clear ML isn’t always the best option. Humans offer a much deeper understanding which translates into higher quality translations overall