What is human translation?
Human translation is the process of converting content from one language to another using a qualified human translator, as distinct from machine translation (MT) produced by automated software. It offers higher accuracy, cultural sensitivity and contextual understanding.
Detailed description
Human translation is the process of converting content from one language to another using a qualified human translator, as distinct from machine translation (MT) produced by automated software. Human translation leverages the translator's linguistic expertise, cultural knowledge, subject-matter understanding, and creative judgment to produce translations that accurately convey meaning, tone, intent, and cultural context.
Human translation excels in areas where machine translation consistently falls short: cultural nuance and adaptation, creative and persuasive writing, context-dependent meaning, idiomatic expressions, humour, emotional tone, complex or ambiguous source text, and content requiring domain-specific expertise. These are precisely the qualities that matter most in professional communications.
The human translation process typically involves analysis of the source text to understand context and intent, translation by a qualified linguist working into their native language, revision by a second linguist who checks accuracy against the source, and editing to polish the final output for fluency and style.
Human translation is not mutually exclusive with technology. Professional translators routinely use Translation Memory tools, terminology databases, and increasingly machine translation as a productivity aid, reviewing and refining machine output rather than translating from scratch. This hybrid approach combines human quality with technology-assisted efficiency.
LEXIGO's default approach is human translation with technology assistance, ensuring every piece of content benefits from human judgment, cultural expertise, and creative skill while leveraging technology to improve consistency and efficiency.
Why it matters
The choice between human translation and machine translation should be driven by content type and risk tolerance. For internal, low-stakes content where speed matters more than polish, machine translation with light post-editing may be appropriate. For anything customer-facing, legally binding, culturally sensitive, or brand-critical, human translation remains the standard that delivers reliable quality.
Understanding when human translation is necessary versus when machine translation is acceptable helps organisations allocate their translation budget effectively: investing in human quality where it matters most while using technology where speed and cost are the priority.
Related questions about human translation
Is human translation better than AI translation?
Yes, for anything official, published or high-risk. A professional translator understands context, audience and purpose, and can catch errors that read fluently in machine output. AI can suit lower-risk, high-volume content when a linguist reviews it.
Does LEXIGO offer fully human translation?
Yes. LEXIGO offers different options for different use cases, from fully human NAATI certified translation to options with AI built into our secure translation technology plus linguist review. Certified, legal and clinical content is always human translated.
How much does a human translator cost?
It depends on the document, language and turnaround. LEXIGO's NAATI certified translation of standard documents starts from $69.90 + GST, and larger projects are quoted on word count.
What does a human translation process involve?
Under ISO 17100, your content is translated by a qualified translator and then revised by a second linguist who checks it against the source. Terminology, formatting and any client review are handled before delivery.
Do official documents need human translation in Australia?
Yes. For visa and citizenship applications, Home Affairs requires translators in Australia to be accredited by NAATI, so your documents need a NAATI certified translator.