Translation History
The word “translation” refers to the process of rendering written communication from one language into another. The history of translation is often a topic of debate among historians because its origins are generally unknown. However, as time has gone on, translation has become widely used and modernized. Read on as we journey through language translation’s past, present, and future.
Early Translations
When it comes to the history of translation, historians cannot pinpoint when it began exactly other than to predict that it began over 2,000 years ago. One of the more popular theories was that the first translation started with “The Epic of Gilgamesh,” a poem written in Sumerian and then translated into different Asian languages. The most significant translation history known today is the translation of the Bible into almost every language known to man.
Modernizing Translation
Languages were being documented through written texts, but it was the printing press that largely impacted the history of translation. With the printing press producing books faster and more accurately, reading and literacy increased, and so did the need for translation. During the Industrial Revolution, machines that could mass produce text made it easier for businesses to enter the foreign market. This created a demand for translation services to assist with trades, banking, education, and many other outlets.
Fast forward to the 20th century, when a new discipline was called “Translation Discipline.” This was also the start of translation becoming a part of academic institutions that can be studied. A paper written in 1972 by James S. Holmes, a poet and translator, called “The Name and Nature of Translation Studies” became the foundation of the new discipline. As this practice grew, the ability to translate languages became an international phenomenon. Conference interpreting, or conference translation, is a translation of one language to another in real-time. This has become the norm in all translations, such as legal translation, political, medical, business, education, finance, tourism, and so much more.
Future of Translation
With the help of famous translators worldwide, translation has improved efficiency and speed. Modern inventions like MT (machine translation) and CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools have increased in popularity as they offer quick and cost-effective results. The translation is now accessible at our fingertips with services like Google Translate, and the internet provides abundant resources for instant translations at any hour of the day.
But, while machine translations have come a long way in recent years, human translators are still more reliable and accurate. It is best to work with a professional translation company for business meetings and conference translations to avoid costly translation mistakes.
Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) is a newer technology in the translation industry. It is done through a cloud-based platform. This translation service eliminates the need for translators on-site and is a cost-effective solution to in-person simultaneous interpretation services.
Conclusion
With the rise of social media platforms, smart devices, and communication apps, the art of translation will continue to evolve and connect more people to each other. Atlas Language Services can help with your conference interpretation, legal translation, RSI, and translation equipment rental needs. Contact us today to learn more!
FAQs
What is the origin of translation?
The exact origin of translation is unknown, though historians believe it began over 2,000 years ago. One theory suggests that “The Epic of Gilgamesh” was among the first translated works.
How did the printing press impact translation history?
The printing press revolutionized translation by producing books faster and more accurately, increasing literacy and the demand for translations across various industries.
What is the “Translation Discipline”?
“Translation Discipline” refers to the academic study of translation, which began in the 20th century. It was formally established after James S. Holmes’ paper, “The Name and Nature of Translation Studies,” was published in 1972.
What are machine translation (MT) and computer-assisted translation (CAT)?
Machine translation (MT) refers to automatic translations done by software, while computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools involve human translators using software to improve speed and accuracy.
Why are human translators still important in translation?
Despite advancements in machine translation, human translators are essential for accuracy and reliability, especially for critical tasks like business meetings and conference translations.
What is Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI)?
Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) is a newer technology that allows real-time translation through a cloud-based platform. It eliminates the need for on-site translators and offers a cost-effective alternative to in-person interpretation.