What Is Translation Myopia?

We’ve decided to call attention to the term translation myopia.

Translation myopia refers to the potential for translators to focus too closely on the source text, potentially leading to translations that are too literal or that miss the broader context and nuances of the original language. This can result in translations that sound awkward or unnatural in the target language.

The potential tendency highlights the importance of balancing attention to the source text with the need to convey meaning effectively in the target language, ensuring that the translation resonates with its intended audience.

Are computerized translation systems able to guard against translation myopia? How much does it matter for your organization if they’re not?