In today’s interconnected world, translation services play a crucial role in global communication, helping businesses and individuals bridge language gaps. However, not all translations are the same. Depending on the subject matter, a translation may fall into different categories, each requiring a distinct set of skills. Two of the most common types are Technical Translation and General Translation.
Understanding the differences between these two types of translation is essential, especially for businesses that require accurate and industry-specific translations. In this article, we will explore what technical and general translation are, how they differ, and why technical translation is so important in today’s specialised industries.
What Is General Translation?
General translation refers to the translation of non-specialised content—text that does not require deep industry knowledge or familiarity with specific terminology. These translations are typically straightforward and accessible, meaning that most professional translators can handle them without extensive subject-matter expertise.
Examples of General Translation:
✔ Articles, blogs, and website content
✔ Business emails and informal correspondence
✔ Tourist brochures and travel guides
✔ Personal letters and general administrative documents
Key Characteristics of General Translation:
- Uses everyday language that is easy to understand.
- Focuses on clarity and readability rather than technical accuracy.
- Does not require specialised terminology or industry knowledge.
- Can be carried out by any qualified translator with strong linguistic skills.
Since general translations do not contain complex terminology, linguistic accuracy and cultural adaptation are the main priorities. The translator ensures that the message is clear, natural, and culturally appropriate for the target audience.
What Is Technical Translation?
Technical translation, on the other hand, deals with highly specialised content that requires industry-specific knowledge. It involves the translation of texts containing technical terminology, diagrams, or structured data, which must be accurately conveyed in another language.
Examples of Technical Translation:
✔ Engineering and manufacturing manuals
✔ Software localisation and IT documentation
✔ Scientific research papers
✔ Financial and legal contracts
✔ Patents and regulatory documents
Key Characteristics of Technical Translation:
- Requires in-depth subject-matter expertise in addition to language skills.
- Must ensure accuracy and consistency in terminology.
- Often follows strict industry regulations and standards.
- Errors can have serious consequences, such as legal issues or safety risks.
Technical translation goes beyond simply converting words from one language to another—it involves a deep understanding of technical jargon, formatting requirements, and regulatory compliance.
Key Differences Between General and Technical Translation
|
Feature |
General Translation |
Technical Translation |
|
Complexity |
Simple, everyday language |
Specialised, industry-specific terminology |
|
Required Skills |
General linguistic expertise |
Subject-matter expertise + linguistic skills |
|
Examples |
Blogs, emails, travel guides |
Technical manuals, military documentation, engineering, and IT-related applications and documents |
|
Accuracy Needs |
Focuses on readability and style |
Requires precision, consistency, and compliance |
|
Impact of Errors |
Minor misunderstandings |
Critical errors can lead to legal, financial, or safety risks |
Why Technical Translation Matters
In highly regulated and specialised industries, technical translation is not just important—it is essential. Here is why:
1. Ensures Accuracy and Compliance
Industries such as telecommunications, defence, finance, and engineering have strict regulations. An inaccurate translation could invalidate military contracts or cause technical failures. Professional technical translators ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
2. Reduces Risk and Liability
A small mistranslation in an instruction manual for heavy machinery could have dangerous consequences. Technical translation minimises risk by providing precise, legally sound, and industry-approved translations.
3. Improves Communication in Global Markets
For companies expanding internationally, clear and consistent technical documentation helps employees, partners, and customers understand and correctly use products and services. This ensures smooth global operations and customer satisfaction.
4. Protects Intellectual Property
Patent translations, legal contracts, and regulatory filings require accurate and legally binding translations. An error could invalidate a patent application and/or lead to financial disputes.
5. Saves Time and Resources
Using professional technical translators who understand industry jargon prevents costly misunderstandings and delays. Instead of fixing errors later, businesses can get it right the first time.
Choosing the Right Translator for Your Needs
If your content involves highly specialised terminology, industry regulations, or technical processes, it is crucial to work with a qualified technical translator. Here is what to look for:
✔ Relevant Industry Experience – Choose a translator with expertise in your specific field (e.g., legal, IT).
✔ Technical Training & Certifications – Ensure the translator has professional qualifications in both language and industry knowledge.
✔ Terminology Management – A skilled technical translator uses translation memory tools and glossaries to maintain accuracy and consistency.
✔ Compliance with Industry Standards – Verify that the translator follows ISO-certified quality assurance processes.
For general translation needs, you can rely on experienced linguists who focus on readability and cultural adaptation. However, for technical content, investing in a specialised translator or translation agency ensures precision, compliance, and reliability.
Both technical and general translation are important in the world of global business, but they serve very different purposes.
- General translation is ideal for everyday content, focusing on clarity and accessibility.
- Technical translation is essential for high-risk, specialised fields, requiring deep expertise and attention to detail.
Choosing the right type of translation service is crucial for ensuring accuracy, professionalism, and legal compliance in international markets. If your business requires high-quality, industry-specific translations, working with a trusted technical translation provider will save time, reduce risks, and help you succeed in a multilingual world.
📩 Need expert technical translation services? Contact us today to discuss your project!
