Checking and Editing

Checking and editing is a two-stage review process used in professional translation to ensure the final output is accurate, fluent, and fit for purpose. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they represent distinct quality assurance functions.

Checking (also called revision or bilingual review) involves comparing the translation against the source text to verify accuracy. The checker confirms that the translation faithfully conveys the meaning, tone, and intent of the original, with no omissions, additions, or misinterpretations. This is a bilingual task requiring expertise in both the source and target languages.

Editing (also called monolingual review or target-language review) focuses on the quality of the translated text as a standalone document. The editor reads the translation without reference to the source, assessing it for grammar, spelling, punctuation, style, readability, and natural flow. This is a monolingual task focused on the target language only.

ISO 17100 — the international standard for translation service providers — requires that every translation undergoes at least one revision (checking) by a qualified second linguist before delivery. This ensures a minimum of two pairs of eyes review every translation.

LEXIGO's quality process goes beyond ISO 17100 minimum requirements, incorporating both checking and editing stages alongside automated quality assurance checks that verify terminology consistency, formatting, completeness, and adherence to client style guides.

A translation that is accurate but poorly written fails to communicate effectively. Conversely, a fluent translation that departs from the source meaning creates compliance and accuracy risks. The checking and editing process addresses both dimensions — ensuring the translation is both faithful to the source and excellent in the target language.

Understanding this two-stage process helps clients appreciate why professional translation costs more than a simple word-for-word conversion. The investment in structured review is what separates reliable, publication-ready translations from first-draft output.