Ambiguity in translation can be a major issue when trying to convey the meaning of a text from one language to another. For example, the English terms “toes” and “fingers” can be translated to “dita” in Italian and “doigts” in French, which correspond to both toes and fingers. Without context, these translations could be misleading and cause medical mistakes.

This table illustrates that the Italian word “dita” can be translated to either “fingers” or “toes” in English, depending on the context.

One solution to this problem is to use the more specific term “digits” when referring to toes and fingers. This term is commonly used in anatomy and medicine and is less likely to be ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations. By using this more specific term, the translated text will be clearer for readers, reducing the chance of confusion.

In our industry, it is often not possible to contact the author of the source document. However, the optimal solution would be to do so.

It’s always important to remember how much context matters in translations. Be aware of the connotations and cultural references that might cause problems and consider all possible ambiguities. Having an expert translator or a language review can help avoid mistakes and ensure that the translated text conveys the intended meaning.

Ambiguity in translation can take several forms, and understanding these different types is crucial for effectively conveying meaning. The four main types of ambiguity in translation are lexical, syntactical, semantic, and pragmatic.

1. Lexical ambiguity occurs when a word or phrase has multiple meanings in the source language, making it difficult to choose an appropriate equivalent in the target language.
2. Syntactical ambiguity occurs when the structure of a sentence in the source language can be understood in multiple ways.
3. Semantic ambiguity occurs when certain phrases are open to multiple interpretations due to a lack of context or meaning, often related to idiomatic expressions or cultural references.
4. Pragmatic ambiguity occurs when the meaning of a text is influenced by the context in which it is used, such as the speaker’s tone of voice or the reader’s background knowledge.

It is essential for a translator to have a deep knowledge of both the source and target languages to avoid ambiguity.

How to avoid creating ambiguity into your target

To avoid introducing ambiguity into your target text, there are several steps you can take. One key strategy is to use specific words or phrases that convey a clear meaning. For instance, you can replace words like “while” with more precise alternatives such as “whereas” or “during.” Another important step is to be aware of the different meanings and connotations of target words or phrases in a given context. For example, the phrase “growing area” in agriculture might refer to an area that is increasing in size or an area used to grow living things.

It’s also important to use compound adjectives correctly, such as “more-urgent care” and “more-accessible facilities,” to indicate a higher degree of a particular quality, not a larger quantity. When translating, be mindful of grammar and sentence structure. This includes ensuring that adjectives modify the correct nouns, using numbering, punctuation, or lettering to split up lists for clarity, and considering how the overall sentence structure affects meaning.

Finally, think about how the translation will be understood by others. Consider whether the translation is too vague or might be difficult for someone else to understand the intended meaning. By being mindful of these issues and taking steps to avoid them, you can ensure that your translations are clear and accurate.