Translation Ethics and Professional Standards Flashcards

Which professional organization publishes the Code of Ethics and Professional Practice for translators in the US?

Answer: American Translators Association (ATA)

The American Translators Association (ATA) publishes its own Code of Ethics and Professional Practice that guides US-based translators.

What does the ethical principle of confidentiality require a translator to do?

Answer: Protect all information received from clients from unauthorized disclosure

Confidentiality requires translators to protect all client information and documents from unauthorized disclosure or use.

A translator realizes mid-project that the source text promotes harmful misinformation. What is the most ethical course of action?

Answer: Notify the client and consider withdrawing if the issue is not resolved

Translators should inform clients of ethical concerns and may withdraw from a project if the content violates professional standards.

What is a conflict of interest in translation?

Answer: Accepting a project where personal interests may compromise professional judgment

A conflict of interest arises when personal relationships, financial stakes, or biases may impair a translator's objective professional performance.

Why must a translator accurately represent their language competencies to clients?

Answer: To avoid liability for poor-quality work resulting from overstated skills

Misrepresenting language competencies is unethical and can result in poor translations, client harm, and professional liability.

Which practice violates professional translation ethics?

Answer: Subcontracting work without the client's knowledge or consent

Subcontracting without client consent violates confidentiality and transparency obligations central to professional ethics.