Accurate Translation

faithful translation

source: Translation: Getting it right by American Translators Association

ata-gettingitright

pic2 A faithful translation is one which conveys the message as the author intended it. For example, a literal word-for-word translation of ‘it was raining cats and dogs’ would be nonsensical and would not faithfully convey the original as the author intended it. The translator would have to find an equivalent idiom in the target language in order to convey the meaning of the original.

I acknowledge that this level of excellence requires:

  • mastery of the target language equivalent to that of an educated native speaker;
  • up-to-date knowledge of the subject material and its terminology in both languages;
  • access to information resources and reference materials, and knowledge of the tools of my profession;
  • continuing efforts to improve, broaden, and deepen my skills and knowledge.

Code of Professional Conduct and Business Practices

source: ATA
This commentary is intended to be a living document, providing in-depth explanation and examples that reflect our common experiences. We envision a framework where members will contribute examples over time of the code in practice to enable a deeper understanding of the effects of our behavior on ourselves, each other, and the industry as a whole.　
We the members of the American Translators Association accept as our ethical and professional duty
  1. to convey meaning between people and cultures faithfully, accurately, and impartially;
  2. to hold in confidence any privileged and/or confidential information entrusted to us in the course of our work;
  3. to represent our qualifications, capabilities and responsibilities honestly and to work always within them;
  4. to enhance those capabilities at every opportunity by continuing education in language, subject field, and professional practice;
  5. to act collegially by sharing knowledge and experience;
  6. to define in advance by mutual agreement, and to abide by, the terms of all business transactions among ourselves and with others;
  7. to ask for and offer due recognition of our work, and compensation commensurate with our abilities;
  8. to endeavor in good faith to resolve among ourselves any dispute that arises from our professional interactions;

mindful that failure to abide by these principles may harm ourselves, our fellow members, the Association, or those we serve.