As freelance medical translators and writers, we frequently encounter unfamiliar terms, particularly in specialized fields like clinical research where terminology is continuously evolving. Mastering these terms is a critical part of delivering high-quality work. Doing your due diligence when faced with an unknown term is essential, and leveraging the right strategies can make all the difference in ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
1. Consult reliable terminology databases
Specialized dictionaries and glossaries tailored to the medical and pharmaceutical fields are invaluable resources. These industry-specific tools often provide the most accurate and standardized terms, helping you avoid any guesswork, save you time and ensure that your content meets industry standards.
Don’t limit yourself to just one source. Cross-referencing multiple databases can help confirm the accuracy of a term and may offer variations or additional context that one source alone might not provide.
2. Conduct a contextual search
If you have a solid understanding of the term’s context, conducting a search within that specific context can yield more precise results. Look for the term in similar documents. Seeing how the term is used in real-world applications can provide clarity and guide you toward the correct usage.
Take note of how the term is used across different sources – this can reveal key nuances in meaning or usage. Contextual understanding is often the key to unlocking the most accurate interpretation.
3. Ask the client directly
Don’t hesitate to reach out to the client for clarification. Asking for their preferred terminology or specific context can save you time and ensure that your work aligns perfectly with their expectations. Engaging the client in this way not only ensures accuracy but also fosters stronger collaboration and trust.
Frame your inquiry as part of your commitment to delivering high-quality work. Clients appreciate when you take the initiative to ensure precision, and this can enhance your professional relationship by demonstrating your attention to detail.
4. Check with colleagues
The medical writing and translation community is a rich resource. Fellow translators or writers may have encountered the term before and can shed some light about unknown or ambiguous terminology. Asking colleagues can be a quick and effective way to find the right translation, definition, or usage.
Join specialized online forums or groups where professionals in your field share insights and resources. Remember, collaboration doesn’t diminish your expertise – it enhances it.
5. Reach out to SMEs
If the term is highly specialized, subject matter experts (SMEs) can offer invaluable assistance. SMEs can provide the correct term or guide you toward the right resources. Building relationships with experts in specific fields adds a layer of reliability and quality assurance to your workflow, ensuring that your work is not just accurate but also credible.
Develop a network of SMEs in various areas. These connections can offer ongoing support and insight, especially when dealing with niche or emerging terminology.
6. Try searching in different languages
If the term remains elusive in your target language, try searching for it in other languages. This approach can uncover translations, definitions, or similar concepts that could lead you to the correct term. It’s especially useful in fields where terminology may not yet be fully standardized across languages.
Explore how a term is used in different languages. Being aware of cultural or regional variations can be crucial for content intended for specific markets or audiences.
7. Consider using the source term
In cases where no clear translation or equivalent exists, retaining the source term with an accompanying explanation in the target language may be the best approach. This ensures clarity, particularly when dealing with unique or highly specialized terminology.
Make sure your make sure your explanation is clear and concise. While not always ideal, this method preserves the term's original meaning and context.
8. Create your own translation
If an existing translation or explanation isn’t available, you may need to create one. When doing so, it’s crucial to consult with the client or SMEs to confirm its accuracy and appropriateness. Crafting a new translation or explanation is an opportunity to contribute to the field, but it comes with the responsibility of ensuring that it fits the context and adheres to industry standards.
Document your process when creating new translations or explanations. This not only provides a reference for future projects but also adds transparency to your work, which can be valuable if you need to justify your choices.
Next time you come across a challenging term, remember that you have a wealth of strategies and resources at your disposal. Doing your due diligence pays off, not only in the accuracy of your work but in the confidence you build as a professional.
Think of each unfamiliar term as a learning opportunity – a chance to deepen your expertise. Every unfamiliar term or complex phrase you encounter is an opportunity to sharpen your skills and expand your knowledge. The more you learn, the more value you bring to your clients and the healthcare community as a whole.
Sign up for the EMWA Seminar on Translation!
It’s a must-attend event for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the translation processes for the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
This seminar is designed for all professionals engaged or interested in medical translation, including both providers and recipients of translation services. It offers an in-depth overview of the translation process, equipping attendees with insights into the complexities of medical translation. Participants will explore topics such as the pre-translation stage, the specific needs of the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, and workflow management.
Explore the full programme HERE.
For more details, check out the dedicated pages for the:
Morning (presentations) sessions: Foundations and best practices
Afternoon (breakout rooms) sessions: Key translation topics
You must register for the full conference (6–8 November) to attend the seminar.
If you're looking for tailored guidance to boost your medical translation career, I'd love to support you on your journey.
Perfect for those who value flexibility and a personalized approach, the Individual Mentoring packages allow you to focus on specific areas of development –whether you're just starting, refining your skills, or aiming to expand your business and client base. With options for one, three, or five sessions, you can choose the level of support that best fits your needs.
For those who thrive in collaborative settings, the Group Mentoring program offers an opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, build meaningful relationships, and enhance your marketing, networking, and business skills in a supportive group environment. While the program is currently not accepting registrations, and I'm unsure when the next edition will run, a waiting list is available if you'd like to join the next round.
Plus, don't forget that subscribers of the Perspectives on Medical Translation & Writing newsletter enjoy a 20% discount on both mentoring settings!
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