‘Being human helps’: despite rise of AI is there still hope for Europe’s translators? | AI (artificial intelligence)
Publish Date: 2026-05-08 00:00:00
Source Domain: www.theguardian.com
- In February 2022, translator Yoann Gentric experimented with AI translation using the DeepL engine to translate a short sentence from Dana Spiotta’s novel Wayward. Though initially unconvincing, subsequent tests in 2026 showed improvements in AI’s use of descriptive language.
- AI translation, powered by large language models, is dramatically affecting the translation industry, especially in Europe, where some translators believe AI poses a threat to their job security. Surveys indicate a significant concern among professionals about possible replacement by AI.
- translators are seeing their work nature shift, with many receiving fewer job offers and an increasing proportion of their work involving “post-editing,” which involves correcting machine-generated translations.
- Post-editing is less fulfilling and typically lower-paid, often at unattractive rates considering the work involved. Income levels have also dropped for regular technical translations and literary translators.
- Despite the increasing integration of AI in translation services, AI-generated translations often struggle with context and creative aspects, highlighting a continued need for human translators’ skills in nuanced areas like dialogue and cultural context.
- Literary translations seem to benefit more from human touch, as evidenced by ongoing projects and increased contractual agreements among authors and publishers to avoid using AI in the translation process.
- Professional perspectives emphasize that while AI can improve and assist, there remain tasks, like maintaining specific word counts or capturing unique emotional expressions, where human translators excel.
