Airui Translation

Several search techniques that translators need to master include the following

First, we need to learn how to use Google. We can search for words that start or end with a certain prefix, or words that contain a specific root. Secondly, we need to learn how to use Google to search for professional terms and parallel texts. For example, when translating an article about insurance and reinsurance from Chinese to English and being unfamiliar with the terminology, one can rely on Google. By entering both English and Chinese keywords and searching all web pages, you may find bilingual terms or relevant explanations. This way, we not only find words but also acquire professional knowledge and learn that many expressions are synonymous.

 

In addition, slang and colloquial expressions not found in dictionaries can also be searched on Google. Even if an explanation cannot be found, numerous contexts can help infer their meanings. A characteristic of Google is that the more keywords you enter, the fewer results you get, but they become more targeted. Keywords are not limited to words that appear in the text but can also include words from the broader context. For instance, even if the word "China" is not explicitly mentioned in an article, it can be used as a keyword because the content pertains to China.

 

We also need to learn how to use Google to search for proper nouns such as names of people and places. If unsure about which Chinese characters to use, you can input the English name into Google, search for Chinese websites, and responsible translators will provide the Chinese name followed by the original name in parentheses. The translation you are looking for is usually before the annotated name. If multiple translation options are found, choose an authoritative or commonly used one. However, the most common option may not always be the best, so personal judgment is necessary. This method can also be used to search for newly introduced or uncertain professional terms in Chinese, as translators often annotate the original term behind their uncertain translations. This approach works for both Chinese-English and English-Chinese searches.