Translation quality: gaps between novice and experienced translators

ENExperienced translators should know how to produce translations that are accurate and error-free. However, it is hard to define what an experienced translator is and what determines high-quality translations. A number of previous translation research studies have focused on the comparison of novice and experienced translators (Dimitrova 2005, Jaaskelainen 2010). They have found out the insufficiency of such comparisons in determining what causes high translation quality and translator professionalism (Riccardi 2002). Therefore, other categories have been proposed for analysis, such as specialists (degree in translation or linguistics) or experienced translators non-specialists (degree in other sciences). The study analyses texts translated by various translators working as freelancers at translation agencies in Lithuania. The major attention is on the comparison of errors produced by novice translators (master's level translation students) and experienced translators. The educational background of translators is taken into consideration and comparisons are made thereof. The study employs descriptive and qualitative methods. The translated texts are analysed in terms of produced translation quality and focus on language errors (grammar, syntax, style, punctuation, etc.) and mistranslations. Studying these issues may provide helpful theoretical as well as pedagogical implications on possible translator trainers’ foci in translation and language classes.