@reallynicestamps wrote:
Use Google Translate or BabelFish. And note too that you are using a translator and do not actually speak or read Chinese.
This is one of the best pieces of advice I've seen anywhere on these discussion boards. Thank you for mentioning it.
I was originally trained as a linguist and worked for years as a translator. I've tried a few "experiments" with online translators in languages I speak and I can't begin to tell you how much ludicrous nonsense, shockingly brusque language or just plain meaningless babble can sometimes result. They don't possess the two key qualities for accurate translation: context and judgment.
So you're absolutely right -- much misunderstanding can be avoided if the recipient of a message is made aware that the sender is using an online translator and doesn't speak or read the language.
To the OP: I would even suggest you put that disclaimer as the very first line of your message (please, not in capital letters though). Be very polite when you compose it -- "please" and "thank you" in relevant places are well advised, as computerized translators will at least transmit these words correctly. Although we've become used to terse communication in English, politeness in messaging is absolutely essential in many cultures. Even if the computer gets your meaning wrong, at least the recipient will know you've attempted to be courteous.
Here are a couple of additional hints that might help:
When using an online translator to transmit a message, avoid contractions, use ordinary words in place of jargon, and avoid colloquial English (words or phrases that are specific to one region or country and not in general use across the English-speaking world). Stick to plain, everyday words with clear meanings, and write in short but complete sentences, with verbs, not in point form. Computerized translators are programmed to recognize normal syntax and grammar, and without those elements, they can really get muddled.
Being aware that you are using an online translator will give the recipient an opportunity to write back and ask for clarification, rather than assuming he or she is communicating with a very rude (or stupid) person.
I think many people assume that if a message is translated by a computer, it will be comprehensible at the other end -- that's not necessarily the case!
