Translation Ethics and Professional Standards Flashcards

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

Answer: Remaining loyal to the meaning and intent of the source text

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

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

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

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

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

Answer: Declining projects outside one's language pairs or specialization

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

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

Answer: To legally bind the translator to maintain client confidentiality

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

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

Answer: Transparency about methods used is required by professional standards

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

Which scenario best illustrates impartiality in legal translation?

Answer: Rendering the document accurately regardless of which party it may benefit

Impartiality requires the translator to produce an accurate rendering without favoring any party involved in legal proceedings.