Machine translation tools have improved to meet the diverse needs of users. However, humans still play a role in translation, and the translator-interpreter is still a crucial factor in determining the quality and accuracy of the texts. Luong Van Can Fund conducted a training session entitled “Translation is not just about using Google Translate” to meet the requirements of students whose major is linguistics and those who are interested in translating and interpreting.

The training session Translation is not just about using Google Translate took place on the Zoom platform on May 3, 2022, with professional support from speaker Lan Anh, currently a lecturer at VNU Hanoi-University of Languages and International Studies and a freelance translator-interpreter in Hanoi. Besides, she used to be the Editor/Reporter of the Department of Television for Foreign Service, Vietnam International Television (VTV4 channel).

Within the coverage, Ms Lan Anh systematically organised the presentation into two sections so that students could easily catch up and pay attention.

1. Understanding the source text clearly before translating 

At the beginning of this session, Ms Lan Anh had students do an exercise of translating the answer of Miss H’Hen Nie in the final round of Miss Universe 2018. Thanks to this example, Ms Lan Anh gave the first rule – translation involves understanding the original text. Understanding the source text depends on the translator’s perception and knowledge. Due to the lack of experience and vocabulary, translators who cannot express and grasp the idea of the source text are prone to misunderstanding and mistranslation Ms Lan Anh also pointed out that online translation tools such as ‘Google translate’ often make mistakes in expressions. If the translator did not have enough knowledge of comprehension and coherency, the translation process would be nonsense and machine-like. Furthermore, to avoid expression errors, the speaker reminded students to check syntax errors and search for collocations to maintain text coherence.

2. Ensuring expression in translation

After ensuring a deep understanding of content, grammar and vocabulary, students have to be aware of how to convey ideas naturally and suitably given the context. Students then practiced translation skills under Ms Lan Anh’s guidance. At the end of the program, the speaker answered some commonly asked questions  about translation and provided tips to enhance students’ translation skills.

Luong Van Can Fund would like to give special thanks to Ms Lan Anh for spending time to conduct the sharing. After the session, students gained some insight into translation and interpretation. Consequently, they may gain insights and confidence as they embark on their journey as translators and interpreters

Source: LVCF Media Team