Machine Translation vs. Human Translation: A Comparative Linguistic Analysis

Abstract

The rapid evolution of machine translation (MT) technology has posed significant challenges and opportunities in comparison to traditional human translation (HT). This paper presents a comprehensive linguistic analysis of both MT and HT, focusing on their respective strengths, limitations, and areas of application. The analysis examines factors such as accuracy, fluency, context comprehension, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability. While MT has made considerable advancements, particularly in processing speed and scalability, it struggles with idiomatic expressions, nuanced meanings, and cultural context, areas where human translators excel. This study aims to provide a balanced perspective, considering both the technological progress of MT systems and the irreplaceable qualities of human translation, ultimately exploring the synergy between the two in achieving optimal translation outcomes.