TECHNICAL TRANSLATIONS

Technical translation is a type of specialized translation involving the translation of documents produced by technical writers (owner's manuals, user guides, etc.), or more specifically, texts which relate to technological subject areas or texts which deal with the practical application of scientific and technological information. While the presence of specialized terminology is a feature of technical texts, specialized terminology alone is not sufficient for classifying a text as "technical" since numerous disciplines and subjects which are not "technical" possess what can be regarded as specialized terminology.Technical translation covers the translation of many kinds of specialized texts and requires a high level of subject knowledge and mastery of the relevant terminology and writing conventions.

The importance of consistent terminology in technical translation, for example in patents, as well as the highly formulaic and repetitive nature of technical writing makes computer-assisted translation using translation memories and terminology databases especially appropriate. In his book Technical Translation Jody Byrne argues that technical translation is closely related to technical communication and that it can benefit from research in this and other areas such as usability and cognitive psychology.

In addition to making texts with technical jargon accessible for a wider ranging audience, technical translation also involves linguistic features of translating technological texts from one language to another.

Translation as a whole is a balance of art and science influenced by both theory and practice. Having knowledge of both the linguistic features as well as the aesthetic features of translation applies directly to the field of technical translation.

For example, mining and natural resources is a highly international industry. Most companies have a transnational presence with multiple offices around the world and regularly import and export products, services and equipment. The global presence of the mining industry relies on translation and interpreter services. 

The mining sector is highly complex, not only in the physical aspects of the industry, but also in its terminology. This is why at Idiomatic Translations UK, we do not trust your documents in the hands of just anyone. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified translation provider, we supply you with native speakers who are specialists in the industry, particularly in understanding industry-specific terminology.