Maintaining linguistic accuracy

Linguistic accuracy is how correct learners’ use of the language system is, including how they use grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary. Accuracy is often compared to fluency when we are talking about a learner’s level of speaking or writing. There is nothing more important than maintaining linguistic accuracy when it comes to translated documents that are shared with others, whether these are businesses or public organizations. This ensures that mutual understanding takes place.

Consistency and coherence

Consistency and coherence determine whether translated content is meaningful, can be understood, and is useful. The translator uses cohesion by using different techniques like repeated words/ideas, reference words, transition signals, and substitution which makes it easy to read.

Contextual understanding and cultural sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity is having the knowledge of the existence of many different cultures and their different attitudes and views of the world and accepting these differences. This is very important when translating documents for use by other cultures.

Quality assurance and error detection

Proofreading is all about quality control and error detection. 

Proofreading confirms that the translated content is the following:

• correct;
• complete;
• meets the requirements of the client; 
• provides the assurance that the content is good enough to ‘go live.’

The proofreading ensures that nothing has been changed or missed.

Proofreaders don’t alter the content but will query issues such as:

• content that isn’t the same as the master copy, including alterations made introduced mistakes, and missing content;
• missing or wrongly placed features like links, table headings, page numbers, and captions;
• design features such as typefaces, heading styles, page breaks, and spacing;
• obvious mistakes in grammar or spelling.

There could be a few rounds of proofreading until no mistakes remain. Every time proofing corrections are made, the proofreader is expected to check the content over again. 

Enhancing professionalism and credibility

Strong writing skills may help gain instant credibility. Correct punctuation, logical structuring, and good grammar show that professionalism and attention to detail have taken place.

As proofreading is the last stage of content production, it offers the chance for an experienced proofreader to give a piece of content a last look and make any final revisions. The organization that has produced the translated content can now release it, knowing that the translation has been proofread and confirms the following:

• that it reads well as there are minimal errors and it is both easy and a pleasure to read;
• that it has been localized accurately as the proofreader plays a role in reviewing the translation for both grammar and contextual accuracy for the targeted audience;
• that it offers the best impression of the organization as the translated content is free of mistakes and correctly formatted so that it offers the smoothest reading experience, but also enhances the reader’s perception of the organization’s professionalism. Readers should be more likely to engage with the content that the organization as a whole provides. 

The following are some of the most well-known and accepted proofreading strategies.

• Read the paper aloud because sometimes writing sounds different in your head than on paper.
• Make a list of mistakes that are commonly made and look out for them.
• Read the text backward.
• Proofread for only one type of mistake at a time.
• Double-check the document as well.
• Read carefully and slowly.

Conclusion

One of the keys to providing a successful but effective translation is to hire professionals that prioritize thorough proofreading to deliver impeccable linguistic projects. This ensures all parties are satisfied with the outcome and the translation becomes an effective source for communication.