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BACK TRANSLATION METHOD FOR TRANSLATION RAILWAY
TERMINOLOGY AND COMPARING WITH OTHER METHODS
Umida Pardayeva
Senior doctoral student (PhD),
Tashkent State Transport University
Dinara Kengesbaeva
Student, Tashkent State Transport University
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15101609
Abstract:
The back translation method is essential for ensuring the accuracy and
consistency of railway terminology across languages. This process involves translating a text
into a target language and then translating it back into the original language by a different
translator. In the railway sector, where precision is critical for safety, back translation helps
verify translated terms, identify discrepancies, and enhance clarity. By maintaining
terminological consistency and addressing cultural nuances, this method supports effective
communication among international stakeholders, contributing to safer and more efficient
railway operations.
Key words:
back translation, railway terminology, linguistic quality, accuracy
verification, consistency check, error detection, dynamic equivalence.
The term “back translation” can seem nonsensical if it’s outside the context of a “forward
translation.” Technically, every translation is a “forward translation,” but if a forward
translation workflow also contains a process to translate the target document back into the
source language, then that part of the process is called a “back translation.” In other words, a
back translation only makes sense if it’s part of a forward translation process and, ideally, both
parts happen back-to-back in the same project. The back translation process is perhaps the
most valuable of all translation processes because it allows for unique benefits:
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it doubles the amount of linguistic quality control;
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it allows a monolingual source text author to personally validate translation quality;
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it includes additional robust documentation that can be used for compliance or legal
purposes;
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it even works to evaluate how word play, puns, or heavily connotative text has been
rendered in the forward translation.
For all these reasons, a back translation is one of the best ways to ensure the highest
quality translations. Furthermore, we can add that back translation method is good for
translating railway terminology. It helps translators to get good results and more
standardization translation. This technique is particularly useful in technical fields, such as
railway terminology, to ensure accuracy and consistency. Purpose of Back Translation.
1. Accuracy Verification: Ensures that the translated terms accurately reflect the original
meaning.
2. Consistency Check: Helps maintain uniformity in technical language across different
documents and languages.
3. Error Detection: Identifies potential misunderstandings or errors in translation. Here’s
more information on back translation in the context of railway terminology: Back translation is
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one of several methods used for translating specialized terminology, including railway
terminology. Here’s how it compares to other common translation methods:
1. Direct Translation
Description: This method involves translating text word-for-word from the source
language to the target language.
Comparison: While direct translation is straightforward, it can lead to inaccuracies,
especially with specialized terms that may not have direct equivalents. It lacks the validation
step that back translation provides.
2. Dynamic Equivalence
Description: This method focuses on conveying the meaning and intent of the original text
rather than adhering strictly to the form.
Comparison: Dynamic equivalence can be beneficial for general understanding but may
overlook specific technical nuances in railway terminology. Back translation offers a way to
verify that the intended meaning aligns closely with the original.
3. Transcreation
Description: This approach involves adapting the content creatively to resonate with the
target audience while retaining the original message.
Comparison: Transcreation is useful for marketing or literary texts but may not be
suitable for technical translations where precision is crucial. Back translation ensures technical
accuracy, which is vital in fields like railways.
4. Glossary-Based Translation
Description: This method uses a predefined glossary of terms to ensure consistency in
specialized language.
Comparison: While glossary-based translation enhances consistency, it may not address
contextual or nuanced meanings. Back translation can validate the use of glossary terms in
context. Therefore, we can give some examples:
Track Gauge: The distance between the inner sides of the rails.
Switch: A mechanical installation that enables trains to move from one track to another.
Signal: A device that conveys instructions to train operators.
Interlocking: A safety system that ensures signals and track switches are set correctly.
In conclusion, back translation is particularly effective for technical fields like railway
terminology because it offers a systematic way to verify accuracy and meaning. While other
methods have their strengths, back translation’s focus on checking for discrepancies makes it a
valuable tool in ensuring the precision necessary for specialized translations. Each method has
its place, and the best approach may involve a combination of techniques depending on the
context and requirements.
Foydalanilgan adabiyotlar/Используемая литература/References:
1.
Benefits of a Back Translation - BURG Translations
2.
Li, J. & Chen, W. (2020). “Applying Back Translation in the Localization of Technical
Documents”. International Journal of Language and Linguistics, 7(4), p. 213-220.
3.
González, A. C., & Sweeney, K. (2015). “The Role of Back Translation in the Context of
Technical Communication”. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication, 45(3), p. 345-
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360.
4.
Khan, M. & Roberts, R. (2021). “Ensuring Accuracy in Technical Translation: The Back
Translation Approach”. Journal of Engineering Communication, 14 (1), p. 32-45.
