AI in Translation: Where We Use It, Where We Don't

Clients ask us this question constantly: do you use AI? The honest answer is yes, but probably not where you think — and definitely not where you would not want us to.

Where we use AI

Terminology research. When a translator encounters an unfamiliar industry term, AI tools can suggest candidate translations faster than a manual search. The translator still verifies against authoritative sources.

Quality assurance checks. Automated tools flag inconsistencies, missing translations, and number/date mismatches at the end of every project.

Subtitling time-codes. AI-generated initial timings save 30-40% of subtitler effort. Humans still adjust every cue.

Bulk technical content. For very high-volume technical documentation where the source is repetitive, we sometimes propose MT + post-editing. Always disclosed, always priced differently.

Where we refuse to use AI

Sworn translations and legal documents. Liability, accuracy requirements, and the personal certification of the translator make this off-limits.

Medical records. The cost of a hallucinated drug name is not a cost we will impose on a patient.

Marketing and creative content. AI flattens voice. If you came to us for tone, we will not give you generic.

Confidential client material. We do not send client documents to third-party AI services. Period.

The bottom line

AI is a tool. Like any tool, it is useful in some hands and harmful in others. We treat it like a junior assistant — useful for grunt work, never trusted to make final decisions.