Translation Quality Assessments: Translators Perspectives

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive overview of Translation Quality Assessments (TQA) from the perspective of professional translators. Utilizing a descriptive research method, data were gathered through questionnaires distributed to professional translators with at least two years of practical experience and formal education in translation studies. These translators, all native Indonesian speakers, provided valuable insights into the criteria they believe are essential for producing high-quality translations. The study reveals that accuracy and consistency are commonly recognized as vital components of quality translation. However, additional factors such as language proficiency, cultural understanding, vocabulary selection, creativity, and thorough revision are also deemed important by the respondents. A significant majority of translators highlight the crucial role of accuracy in ensuring a faithful representation of the original text, while an understanding of the cultural context and fluency in the target language are also key considerations for quality outcomes. The survey findings indicate that poor translation results often stem from a lack of subject matter expertise and insufficient cultural context, both of which are crucial to accurate translation. Moreover, the quality of the source language itself is emphasized as the foundation for successful translation, with target language proficiency playing a critical role in conveying meaning effectively. The use of machine translation software to enhance translation quality was met with mixed opinions, with some respondents acknowledging its benefits and others pointing out its limitations.