Translation Translation Ethics and Professional Standards 2

Question 1

What does 'fidelity' mean in the context of translation ethics?

Accepted Answer

Remaining loyal to the meaning and intent of the source text

Answer

Fidelity refers to faithfulness to the meaning, tone, and intent of the source text, not necessarily word-for-word literalism.

Question 2

A client asks a translator to 'improve' the source text by removing negative product reviews. What should the translator do?

Accepted Answer

Refuse, as altering source content violates the translator's neutrality

Answer

Translators must render the source text faithfully and should not alter, censor, or embellish content at a client's request.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of professional competence in translation?

Accepted Answer

Declining projects outside one's language pairs or specialization

Answer

Professional competence requires translators to decline work that exceeds their language abilities or subject-matter expertise.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) in translation work?

Accepted Answer

To legally bind the translator to maintain client confidentiality

Answer

An NDA legally formalizes the translator's obligation to keep client information and materials confidential.

Question 5

Why should translators disclose the use of machine translation (MT) to clients?

Accepted Answer

Transparency about methods used is required by professional standards

Answer

Professional ethics require transparency about the tools and methods used in a translation, including the use of machine translation.

Translation Practice Test