I read an interesting article about how Google Translate works (thanks again, Gisele, for the retweet). It was eye-opening to read that their software aggregates and mechanically interprets the translations already present on the Internet in order to come up with its translation to those foreign words that you entered. Now of course, the technology is only as accurate as what we put into translations already available. If there is no available word combination like those that you entered, then you’re probably going to get back nonsense. After all, a machine is providing the translation from those already completed by humans (or worse translating each word individually and mashing together a translation). Like I said, interesting approach for a divisive practice.
Many critics in the comment section of this article complained about how useless it really is, because of the many times generated nonsensical translations. But I think that many people are missing the point: language is practically a living and breathing entity, because it is an active representation of our thoughts put into word form so that we can communicate. Think of all of those people out there, coming from different cultures, upbringing, ethnicity and gender, and how they communicate with one another. It’s pretty much a hit-or-miss practice, even when you’re using human translators. Language is entangled with individual experiences and perceptions. Translators do not translate verbatim like machines do. They listen to the previous conversation, watch the participants, and use discretion when providing a translation so that the conversation can stay on track and not be interrupted with potential emotional conflicts.
Writers know better than anyone that words can create, and words can destroy. The intent lies with the writer as to their ultimate actions. But sometimes even innocuous words can take on an ugly life of their own, when someone ties a bad experience to that particular combination of words that are out there. So, how can we expect a machine to get it right, when we ourselves have a tough enough time of maintaining order while using words? After all, words also can have many meanings, and some are even hidden.
Google Translate is simply a tool, much like a thesaurus. It’s not some know-it-all method of making your translation job easier. It’s simply one tool to help create a path so that you learn a language, while also remembering to bring the origins, experiences, and people who are part of that language. There is no one-stop shopping for learning a language. There’s only hard work, understanding, and personal effort. And the best way to do that is to immerse yourself into the learning process. No shortcuts allowed.
I’m so glad you were inspired by that article in such a good way! When you mentioned what people were commenting and I went back to read what they were saying, I just thought of this “never enough” way of living. It’s incredible how nothing is good enough for all those already-looking-forward-for-the-next-thing consumers. I’m happy you took it to another level, and I totally agree with what you’re saying. Learning languages for me was the key to becoming who I am today, so it is VERY personal to m
Language has literally expanded my world in so many ways, and makes me want to understand those who are conversing in a language that might be unfamiliar to me. Must be the cat in me that is always curious (though I consider myself more of a little monster – think Pixar – which is also furry)? Language in its intricate rhythms and appearance is simply another art that requires immersion to appreciate and learn, so that our senses can take in the wonders on offer in all of those amazing lands that soon feel like extended homes. And it allows us to extend a hand in friendship to one another!
Carolyn,
Lile what you are saying here. I wonder how many of the people who commented actually know another language. I gew up with two; English and German. In public school we learned French and now that I am in my 40’s (yikes) I really wished I had paid closer attention (full disclosure: I love the romantic langiuages). At any rate, I have a business partner in Montreal QC and they are very gracious in using English when we communicate (verbally & written). I once used Google Translate to send them a thank you note in French for a particularly difficult job that they completed for me. The response was overwhelming! Through that simple act, trying their way, the relationship has evolved just that little bit more. I agree that language is personal but thanks you to Google Translate for helping me. I think it is a viable tool when limitations are understood and used in moderation. Like anything in life. Did I say I love your writing?
Hi Ralph! It’s good to see you here! I’m feeling your shock, since I’m also in my 40’s @_@ – we have tons in common. ; ) I grew up with Japanese and English, though I also picked up a little French and Russian. I just want to keep learning more languages, so I’ve started down that road (aiming at Arabic and Italian next, while brushing up on what I know – then on to others). I passed the JLPT 3 (before they added another level) exam a few years ago, and am trying to make time for JLPT 2. It’s always awesome when you extend a hand by learning another’s language. The reaction is always positive and feels great to know that your effort was appreciated, which it always is. I also use Google Translate in a similar manner, and it’s been a godsend in helping me get started – along with Babylon and Babblefish, and whatever else I can find.
Thanks for the compliment. And right back at you about writing – I follow your blog and your writing on Urban Times. Keep up the great work! It’s awesome to love what you do – though I’m still just starting down that new road with this career transition. Stay in touch! : )