Tõlkimismälu

Tõlkimismälu, or Translation Memory (TM), is a technology used in computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools. It stores previously translated segments of text, such as sentences or phrases, and their corresponding translations. When a translator works on a new document, the TM system analyzes the source text and searches for identical or similar segments in its database. If a match is found, the system presents the stored translation to the user, who can then either accept it as is or edit it to fit the new context. This process aims to improve translation consistency, speed up the translation workflow, and reduce costs.

The core principle behind Tõlkimismälu is the concept of reusability. Instead of translating the same phrases repeatedly, translators can leverage existing translations. This is particularly beneficial for large projects or for organizations that frequently translate similar types of content, like legal documents, technical manuals, or marketing materials. The effectiveness of a Tõlkimismälu relies on the quality and size of the stored data. A well-maintained and comprehensive translation memory can significantly enhance productivity.

Tõlkimismälu systems typically consist of a database where translation units (TUs), comprising a source segment and its target translation, are stored. Advanced TM tools offer features like fuzzy matching, which identifies segments that are similar but not identical to existing entries, providing a percentage of similarity and allowing translators to adapt rather than re-translate from scratch. The use of Tõlkimismälu is a common practice in the professional translation industry, contributing to more efficient and consistent multilingual communication.