Översättningsminne

Översättningsminne, often abbreviated as TM, is a technology used in translation software to store previously translated text segments. It consists of pairs of source text and its corresponding translation. When a translator works on a new document, the translation memory system analyzes the source text and compares it with entries in the TM. If a match is found, the system suggests the stored translation, saving the translator time and ensuring consistency.

The effectiveness of a translation memory depends on the size and quality of its database. A larger and more comprehensive TM can lead to higher reuse rates, especially for repetitive or technical texts. Translation memories are a core component of computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, which provide translators with a range of functionalities to streamline the translation process.

Beyond simply storing translations, advanced TM systems can also handle fuzzy matches, where the source text is similar but not identical to a TM entry. In such cases, the system presents the closest match, allowing the translator to edit and adapt it, rather than starting from scratch. This significantly improves efficiency and reduces the cost of translation. Översättningsminne is a crucial tool for professional translators and translation agencies aiming for speed, accuracy, and uniformity in their work.