In a recent article for the American Translators Association’s ATA Chronicle,
“Creating New Terminology: Do Translators Really Do This?,” MS in
Translation & Interpreting (MSTI) instructor Barbara Inge Karsch
identifies situations in which translators might develop terminology to
represent new concepts. Karsch, who teaches Theory & Practice of
Terminology and Terminology Management, is one of the language experts
convened by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to
create standards and frameworks to anchor the process of term
formation.
“One of the primary goals of technical material is to pass on information to a user. A large component of technical texts are terms and names (designations). Indeed, terms and names are the main carriers of information, as they’re the representations of concepts covered by the text.
If we invent terms and names randomly, chances are nobody will understand the concepts behind them. Communication will be inhibited or not occur. If we form terminology with a systematic approach, a larger percentage of readers will grasp the concept, and grasp it faster. […]
Companies that are serious about their linguistic presentation and professional image put work into naming their products, features, departments, job titles, and most of all the company itself. As their extended representatives, translators must put equal care into the coining of new terms and names. ISO 704 provides us with seven term formation principles to guide us in this endeavor.”
Read the full text for a description of the seven principles and the significance of the committee’s work.
***********
A translation and interpreting degree can help you to take charge of your career, whether you are new to the field or already working in the language professions. Apply for CALA’s M.S. in Translation & Interpreting, a fully online, 36-credit graduate degree.