Serhiy Hrynkov
(Khmelnytsky National University)
Scientific adviser: N. Shkoliar, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences
TRANSLATING TECHNICAL MANUALS IN AUTOMOTIVE FIELD
Translation is a vital force in modern society, facilitating the flow of ideas, expertise, values, and other information between different cultures. Translation is aimed at conveying the meaning of one text in another language, keeping the same original intention of the author. Today, technical texts are attracting more attention as they convey the newest information about technical and scientific discoveries. In recent years, technical translation has gained increasing prominence, particularly within industries such as automotive, where precise communication is essential for safe and effective operation. In today’s globalized economy, Scientific and Technical Translation represents “the backbone of international trade and the scientific endeavour which fuels it” [2]. In fact, it has been estimated that Scientific and Technical Translation now accounts for some 90% of global translation output [3, p. 247]. Technical translation contains specialised terminology and deals with scientific subject matters. Technical texts tend to explain the application of the matter in detail, provide specific instructions and present auxiliary information, they are more concrete, simple, unambiguous and concise [1].
The automotive industry has undergone significant evolution, with automobiles becoming integral to modern economies, environments, and societies. Technical manuals play a crucial role in this industry, providing users with essential information on vehicle operation, maintenance, and repair. As production and distribution occur on a global scale, the need for accurate and accessible technical documentation in multiple languages has become increasingly important.
Technical translation in automotive field encompasses a diverse range of documents, including training manuals, user manuals, automotive catalogs, diagnostic manuals, service manuals, parts systems, engine specifications, warranty books, website information, marketing materials, database files, technical documents. These texts serve not only to instruct users on the proper operation of vehicles but also to ensure their safety and longevity. Translators working in this field must possess a deep understanding of automotive engineering principles and terminology to accurately convey complex technical information. Moreover, they must navigate linguistic nuances and cultural differences to ensure that translated manuals resonate with diverse audiences across global markets.
Each appliance, each device and machine needs a manual that ensures that the owner knows how to use, maintain, and repair it. In many instances, manuals have several hundred pages, and they are filled with technical terms. User manuals are identified among five types of automotive translation (design resources, manufacturing processes, safety documentation and marketing material) that play key roles across the entire manufacturing and sales process. Manuals ensure both the proper use of the given device and the safety of the person that operates it. In many instances, the health of workers (and even life) is at stake. In translating automotive manuals, strict rules are applied. Style, semantics, and logic are all essential as maintaining the text’s structure including that of the individual elements. There is no room for discrepancies and vagueness. Therefore, translating manuals requires 100% accuracy and also industry knowledge. The translator working on a specific document has to understand how the machine works and what its components are. That’s why technical knowledge is extremely helpful, if not indispensable.
Translating technical manuals for automotive industry presents a myriad of challenges, ranging from terminology discrepancies to cultural nuances. One of the primary challenges is maintaining accuracy and precision while ensuring clarity and coherence for users. Terminology plays an important role, as automotive engineering is an area where the differences between British and American English cannot be ignored [4, p. 110]. Since the industries have grown up independently in the countries concerned, attempts to achieve conformity in the terminologies have repeatedly been frustrated; in fact, many of the concepts have become general everyday vocabulary, such as engine/motor, boot/trunk, windscreen/windshield [4, p. 110]. Even subtle linguistic variations should be carefully navigated. Additionally, the impersonal style and structural requirements of technical texts demand meticulous attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.
The rapid evolution of automotive technology poses ongoing challenges for translators, who must stay abreast of new developments and terminology. In addition, translators must decipher abbreviations, adhere to national and international standards, and clarify ambiguous terms to ensure comprehension by users. Moreover, maintaining the appropriate style and punctuation in translated texts is essential for conveying information accurately and professionally. While technical translation may prioritize precision and clarity, it is also important to consider the stylistic elements that contribute to user engagement and comprehension.
Translating technical manuals in automotive field is a multifaceted endeavor that requires meticulous attention to detail, linguistic expertise, and cultural sensitivity. The quality of technical translation has far-reaching implications for user confidence, warranty costs, and safety in automotive restoration. A poorly translated manual can lead to misunderstandings, errors in vehicle maintenance, and potential risks to users. Therefore, the role of the translator in preserving the technical content and integrity of the original document is paramount. As technology continues to evolve and globalization accelerates, ongoing research and collaboration in the field of technical translation are essential to meet the growing demands of the automotive sector and ensure the safety and satisfaction of users worldwide.
REFERENCES
- Byrne, Jody. Technical Translation: Usability Strategies for Translating Technical Documentation. Springer-Verlag New York: 2006. 290 р.
- Byrne, Jody. Scientific and technical translation explained: a nuts and bolts guide for beginners. Manchester, 2012. 246 р.
- Kingscott, Geoffrey. Technical Translation and Related Disciplines. In Perspectives: Studies in Translatology, 10, Р. 247–255.
- Hann, Michael. The Key to Technical Translation. Vol. I. Amsterdam: John Benjamins Publishing Company. 1992. 248 р.