Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the proverbial sword of Damocles hanging over the translation profession since the mid-20th century, marked by early experiments with automatic translation systems initiated during the Cold War.

Since then, approximately every 5-10 years, the translation profession has been regularly sentenced to imminent death. Thus, translators have been struggling like gladiators in the arena of ancient Rome, awaiting a verdict from the emperor and the audience, determined by a simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down gesture.

Having specialized mainly in consecutive interpretation over the last decade, it seemed to me that discussions and debates on whether new technologies would replace translators were primarily focused on written translation.

Beyond Technology: Why the Future of Human Interpretation Remains Robust Despite AI Advances?

I am often asked if I worry that new technologies, enabling written and oral translations, will render my profession obsolete.

Indeed, nowadays, these technologies are becoming increasingly proficient in translating technical, legal, or other texts where terminology and phrases are repetitive and fairly standard. There are also technologies capable, with a few clicks, of speaking most languages worldwide.

However, no, I am not worried at all, and new technologies do not frighten me. Here’s why:

Firstly, the goal of interpretation is much broader than merely transmitting an orally produced message from one language into the words of another. The ultimate goal of interpretation is to ensure effective communication when interlocutors understand each other well and achieve their goals.

The message conveyed directly by words represents only a part of communication, its formal content. Although new technologies are competent enough to handle this part, they are not yet equipped with certain qualities to compete with a human in situations requiring interpretation.

The Complexity of Communication: The Crucial Importance of Non-Verbal Communication and Context for Quality Interpretation

During oral communication, much more is conveyed through nonverbal than verbal communication. A lot also depends on the context, defined as “the situation within which something exists or happens, and that can help explain it” (Cambridge Dictionary).

The meaning of a sentence results from the combination of verbal and non-verbal communication as well as the context. The same sentence, “Would you mind taking out the trash?” can have different meanings depending on the context and non-verbal elements.

Delivered with an aimable intonation and in the context of a good relationship between interlocutors, it can mean: “I would be very grateful if you helped me take out the trash.” On the other hand, a frustrated tone in the context of a bad relationship between interlocutors can change the meaning to: “I’ve told you several times to take out the trash; I’m fed up with having to remind you every time.”

Language and Culture: AI Cannot Yet Overcome Cultural Challenges for Performing Flawless Interpretation

Language is one of the elements that constitute the peculiarities of each nation’s culture. People speaking different languages often have different cultural codes: the same gesture does not have the same meaning for nationals of different countries.

A classic example: the thumbs-up gesture has positive meanings, indicating approval in the United States, but very negative meanings in some South American countries. Thus, when a U.S. president used this gesture during a visit to South America, a diplomatic conflict was narrowly avoided.

The culture of each country is not limited to gestures but encompasses several other aspects that can play a key role in understanding and interpreting the message expressed by words. Grasping and deciphering non-verbal messages as well as the context accompanying a verbal message are integral to the interpreter’s work. Artificial intelligence is not yet capable of performing this task.

Conclusion

In one of the articles on artificial intelligence that I’ve read recently, I’ve appreciated the following phrase: “Will people in certain professions soon be replaced by new technologies? No, these people will rather be replaced by others who master these technologies.” For me, artificial intelligence does not eliminate the interpreter’s profession but rather transforms it. Artificial intelligence also has the potential to become a tool that allows interpreters to progress professionally more quickly.

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L’article Artificial Intelligence: A Death Sentence for Interpreters? est apparu en premier sur Larina Translation.

Cannes, the jewel of the French Riviera, is set to host a plethora of captivating events throughout 2024. From prestigious gatherings to must-attend rendezvous, the city shines with diverse opportunities that attract professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.

January

The year kicks off with the International Private Equity Market (IPEM) from January 23 to 25 at the Palais. This event, dedicated to the international private equity market, provides an unparalleled platform for industry professionals.

February

Cannes comes alive in February with the Assises Face et Cou (from February 1 to 3) at the Palais des Festivals, showcasing the latest advances in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Continuing this vibrant period, the World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival (WAICF), from February 8 to 10, promises to be the global focal point for artificial intelligence, requiring the expertise of an interpreter for precise communication.

March

In March, the city transforms into an arena of negotiations and discoveries with the MIPIM (from March 12 to 15), attracting real estate professionals worldwide. It’s also the moment of Protection & Security Meetings (from March 20 to 21) and Hôtel & Restaurant Meetings (from March 20 to 21), offering unique business opportunities in security and hospitality, where the presence of an interpreter greatly facilitates mutual understanding.

April

April promises excitement with the MIPTV (from April 8 to 10), a flagship event for professionals in TV and digital content. In parallel, Canneseries (from April 5 to 10) celebrates its 7th edition, showcasing the best of international series creation. Moments where international collaboration takes center stage, emphasizing the crucial role of an interpreter in overcoming language barriers.

May

May sees the city adorned with glamour for the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival (from May 14 to 25). Spotlights turn to the most anticipated films, and celebrities from around the world grace the red carpet, highlighting the need for an interpreter in international interactions.

June

Cannes continues its momentum with the Datacloud Global Congress (from June 4 to 6), a key event for IT professionals. In June, creativity takes the stage with the Cannes Lions – International Festival of Creativity (from June 17 to 21), an event that inspires global innovation, underscoring the importance of an interpreter to convey ideas accurately.

September

The fall marks the return of the Cannes Yachting Festival (from September 10 to 15), kicking off the European nautical season. Customer Relationship & Marketing Meetings (from September 18 to 19) provide a dedicated platform for customer relations and digital marketing.

September ends on a high note with the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference (from September 30 to October 4), bringing together the duty-free and travel retail industry. An international event where the presence of an interpreter is essential to facilitate exchanges in a varied business context.

November

In November, Cannes transforms into a business hub with events such as Transports & Logistics Meetings (from November 6 to 7), Mare di Moda (from November 5 to 7) dedicated to beachwear fashion, and Environment Cleaning & Climate Meetings (from November 20 to 21) for environmental professionals. The month concludes with stimulating business meetings such as Workplace Meetings (from November 20 to 21) and Healthcare Meetings by Weyou (from November 20 to 21). In parallel, MIPCOM (from November 21 to 24) attracts major players in the audiovisual industry, emphasizing the need for an interpreter to ensure smooth exchanges in this highly specialized field.

The year 2024 promises to be an exceptional one for Cannes, where business, creativity, and glamour converge on the shores of the Mediterranean. The presence of an interpreter proves to be an invaluable asset for all participants, enabling smooth communication and facilitating international interactions. Stay tuned for updates to not miss out on these unforgettable events.

Source of the Schedule : https://en.palaisdesfestivals.com/agenda/

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L’article A Overview of Major Events in Cannes in 2024 est apparu en premier sur Larina Translation.

During an international conference on religious diversity, an interpreter had a little misunderstanding while interpreting a speech on the celebration of Easter in different cultures.

The speaker had started by explaining that in the Christian culture, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion. However, the interpreter interpreted the word “resurrection” as “reincarnation”, which had the effect of confusing the conference participants, especially those who practiced religions that do not believe in reincarnation.

The speaker quickly realized the misunderstanding and tried to correct the error by explaining that in Christian culture, resurrection is different from reincarnation. Fortunately, the incident was quickly resolved thanks to the speaker’s clarification, but it still elicited some smiles and reflections on the difficulty of interpretation when it comes to delicate religious concepts.

Here’s another one from another international conference on religions, where an interpreter was tasked with translating the words of a Catholic priest discussing the meaning of Easter in the Christian religion.

The priest explained that the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Easter was a symbol of eternal life, and that in celebrating this feast, Christians commemorate his death and resurrection.

The interpreter, believing that he had understood correctly, translated these words by saying that Easter was a feast where Christians celebrated the death of Jesus. The people present, especially those belonging to other religions, were shocked by this interpretation and began to wonder why Christians celebrated the death of their messiah.

The priest, realizing the translation error, immediately corrected the misunderstanding by explaining that the celebration of Easter was actually a feast of resurrection and not of the death of Jesus.

This example illustrates the importance of accurate translation, especially when it comes to sensitive and symbolic subjects. Translation errors can not only lead to misunderstandings, but also offend and create tensions between people belonging to different religions or cultures.

Larina Translation wishes you a Happy Easter!

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