Machine translation (MT) is slower and less accurate than human translation and there is no immediate or predictable likelihood of machines taking over this role from humans.
Do you agree or disagree.
In an attempt to cross communication barriers, technological advancements have created a number of tools such as machine translation devices. Owing to its lack of speed and accuracy, this essay agrees why the role of humans in interpretation will always be superior.
One reason why automated translation will not take over the role of humans is that it cannot accurately translate culture. Obviously, the world is filled with highly diversified culture. Arabic language, for instance has many words with variable definitions and ideas which depend on the context and situation a person is in. The Arabic word, “yalla,” which generally means, “Let’s go,” can also mean, “OK,” in certain situations. Hence, machine translator cannot exactly translate languages from different cultures.
Another factor why humans are superior translators is the fact that automated translation device is highly unreliable in dealing with international affairs. A mere text to text, or text to speech interpretation of foreign events could lead to international disputes and misconception. Alan Cayetano, the Foreign Affairs Secretary of the Philippines, has successfully deflected numerous criticisms to the government’s effort against drug and corruption in a highly logical and complex manner. This is due to the fact that the secretary is not only an expert in international language, but he also has first-hand experience of the events taking place in the Philippines. Therefore, depending international matters to a translation device is utterly absurd.
To conclude, automated translation device is a promising technology. However, due to its unreliability in translating cultures and dealing with international affairs, I agree that humans will always take hold the role of translation.