Editing a translation

Editing of a translation is inherently a comparison of two texts – an original (source text) and its translation (target text) – in order to find out what has to be corrected and to make respective corrections.

The editor should first look at the translation to see if it is logical and understandable.

Parameters help editors to be objective. The basic parameters are:

• Accuracy. The meaning of the source text must not be mistranslated. Ambiguities, omissions, additions are unacceptable.


• Grammar, syntax, spelling must be correct.


• Style and register must be maintained.


• Cultural and functional adaptation. Idioms, proverbs and sayings, neologisms, figurative language, metaphors, units of measurement, ways of addressing people, dates, etc. must be adapted to the target audience and culture.

Upon completion of editing, the editor sends the edited text back to the translator who makes the final decision on whether or not to accept the proposed changes. Teamwork of the editor and translator enhances the quality of the final translation.