A better job title for the human translator

The word “translator” has become a misnomer. It no longer is appropriate to convey what a human translator does.

This is not as far-fetched as you might think: machine translation providers have hogged the word “translator” to refer to computer programmes that output raw machine translation. Human translators therefore are in need of a job title that better describes what they do. 

Human translators are in need of a job title that better describes what they do

The word “translator” on its own is misleading! I therefore feel that using a better, more specific job title for the human translator should be the next logical step on the way towards changing the public’s perception of the translating profession.


Examples of a better job title:

Language professional

Language consultant

Technical translator

Patent translator

Marketing translator

Transcreator

Translator and editor

Post-editor


It is confusing that nowadays both human translators and translating computers are referred to as translators. In light of the encroachment of translating computers, a better job title is therefore needed for (human) translators.


A German translation of this blog entry is available here.