Check online translations
Compare names, numbers, negation and specialist terms with the original text.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
A fluent translation can still change meaning. Keeping the original is particularly useful where dates, amounts or qualifications influence the interpretation.
Use machine translation as a reading aid, then inspect sensitive passages. Check data-handling and reuse conditions before submitting or publishing material.
Examples to adapt
Compare the negative words and surrounding paragraph with the original.
Consult a specialist glossary and retain the original term where useful.
Follow the method
- 1Choose suitable input
Remove unnecessary personal details and check the service’s conditions for confidential documents. Use a targeted authorised passage where possible.
- 2Confirm the languages
Check detected and target languages. Provide enough context to distinguish ambiguous words.
- 3Inspect sensitive points
Compare names, dates, units, amounts and negative statements. Keep surrounding text to avoid misreading an isolated sentence.
- 4Retain both versions
Save the original link or file. Label an automatic or personal translation when quoting it and check attribution and reuse rights before publication.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Input | Necessary authorised text | Remove unrelated data |
| Language | Detection and context | Confirm before translating |
| Meaning | Numbers, terms and negation | Compare with the original |
| Reuse | Attribution and rights | Check before publication |
Read the checklist directly in the table.
What to check
Fluency does not establish fidelity.
Do not submit confidential content without checking conditions.
Keep the original and translated version identifiable.
Common questions
Should I translate the entire page?
A targeted passage can be easier to check, while retaining enough context.
Can I publish a translated document?
Check fidelity, attribution and the rights applying to the original material.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.