In the world of translation, terminology management is more than just a tool—it’s a critical component that enhances the quality and consistency of translated content. Gabriel Fairman dives deep into why it should be a key feature in any Translation Management System (TMS), especially in the evolving landscape shaped by artificial intelligence.
What is Terminology Management?
Terminology management refers to the process of organizing and controlling the terms used in translation. It ensures that terms are:
- Consistent across languages
- Approved and maintained by relevant stakeholders
- Properly managed within the translation workflow
"Terminology is a structural block of language,"
Gabriel explains. It ensures that terms are used correctly in different contexts, keeping translations accurate and aligned with the brand’s message.
Pre-AI vs. Post-AI Terminology Management
Before AI, terminology management was already crucial for translation quality. Translators relied on term bases and glossaries to maintain consistency. However, they were responsible for remembering and applying the correct terms manually.
"In the pre-AI world, terminology was essentially the human’s responsibility to implement, remember, and follow," Gabriel says.
With AI integration, terminology management has become even more vital. AI can now "tokenize and vectorize terms," allowing for more advanced linguistic inferences.
This means that not only do terms need to be managed, but they also carry additional meaning in different contexts, adding a layer of complexity to the process.
Why Terminology Matters in AI-driven Translation
AI-driven translation systems analyze terms in ways humans may not, recognizing context and even the tone of language. For example, AI can identify whether a term is more formal or informal based on the surrounding content. This ability to infer language style makes terminology management a pivotal part of the translation process.
As Gabriel explains,
"Terminology carries a lot more linguistic weight than just text. It acts as a textual anchor."
The Role of Terminology in Brand Management
In large organizations, terminology management isn’t just about translation quality—it also impacts brand consistency. Certain terms may be specific to the brand, or they may carry cultural significance. Managing these terms properly helps ensure that a company’s message remains intact across multiple languages.
"Terminology management is a central, pivotal aspect of knowledge management when it comes to language," Gabriel emphasizes.
Key Takeaways
- Terminology management is essential for maintaining consistency and accuracy in translations.
- In the AI era, terminology management is more important than ever due to its role in linguistic inference.
- Proper management of terms strengthens brand consistency across languages and regions.
By integrating effective terminology management into your TMS, you ensure better translation quality and more consistent communication across global markets.
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