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Article published In:
The Role of ISO/TC 37 Standards for Translators, Interpreters, Terminologists and Beyond
Edited by Hendrik J. Kockaert
[Digital Translation 10:2] 2023
► pp. 156–179

Terminology standards and their relevance for legal interpreters and translators

Results of an exploratory study in Austria and Italy

ORCID logo | Eurac Research
ORCID logo | University of Vienna
ORCID logo | Austrian Academy of Sciences
Legal interpreters and translators (LITs) play a crucial role in ensuring equitable treatment within the EU and facilitating international mobility. These professionals actively engage in terminology work, similar to other translators and interpreters. This exploratory study examines the degree of familiarity LITs have with terminology principles and standards, based on an online survey conducted among LIT associations in Austria and Italy. A significant portion of respondents reported engaging in terminology work, underlining its professional relevance. The prevalent usage of traditional tools like word processors and paper is evident, whereas the adoption of advanced systems remains limited. Despite more than half of the participants demonstrating awareness of terminology standards, access to specific standards was infrequent. A considerable number of respondents did not perceive terminology standards as essential for their practical undertakings. Only a minority were familiar with either national or ISO terminology standards. The study uncovered a lack of comprehensive understanding and implementation of terminology management principles. While terminology remains indispensable for LITs, its effective management is often overlooked. It is crucial to improve the dissemination of information and encourage collaborative efforts with relevant organizations to enhance awareness and foster proficient utilization of terminology.
Keywords: legal interpreters and translators, terminology management, legal translation, legal interpreting, standards
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Legal interpreters and translators
  • 3.Terminology standards
  • 4.Method
  • 5.Results
  • 6.Discussion
  • 7.Conclusions
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 15 December 2023
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/dt.00006.chi
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