Abstract:

This article describes a different approach to machine translation (the Translator Aid System) which uses the computer toassist the translator in his work rather than to try to replace him.The system described is a three-level system. Each level incorporates successively more sophisticated translation aids, all ofwhich are under the control of the translator. Level three includes a full-blown machine translator.The utility of the system lies in the fact that it can be put into production much sooner than a conventional post-edit system.The successive levels can be added as the need increases.Although there has been much serious research in machine translation (MT) since the early 1950's, it has had little effect onhuman translators. They still use pencil and paper or a typewriter or a tape recorder. Very few deal with computers in any way. Thisis about to change. Rapidly increasing numbers of translators will use word processing equipment. And many, especially students inuniversity training programs, will use sophisticated translator work stations featuring an integrated set of translation aids.

Author: Alan K. Melby