Ill-Foundation on Medical Translation
The first translation I did after graduating was a medical thesis. At first, I thought I would have a difficult time due to harsh terminology; but to my surprise, there was no difficulty in that respect. Now, why was that the case?
It seems that our doctors, who have very advanced knowledge in their specific area, wanted to translate pioneering books in their field to Turkish; while doing so, it is apparent they decided it was okey to transfer the absent terminology to Turkish by transcribing the words as they sound in its source language. When I was translating the thesis, I just read the words, they were in English, in my mind and transcribed them into Turkish and everything went well, no terminology mistakes.
Where is the issue then? Here it is, my task did become easier as a translator; I am sure doctors got used to the terminology since they use it in a daily basis, but, how about common folk who do not know any foreign languages or not fluent in terminology? There is no doubt, like me, you also witness the chasm created by this synthetic terminology, abolishing the communication between doctors and common folk. I know English, I translate medical texts, so, I can understand what the doctor is saying when I am at the hospital. But how about the common folk? Is this fair for them?
I am sure that our doctors had the very best of intentions. There is no doubt their translations contributed to the field in Turkey immensely; but the act has downsides as well. I am sure that you are aware of this synthetic terminology operating in the medical jargon of our language, however, I wanted to make a reminder anyway, to bring the main issue to the spotlight.
Medical or Law it may be; dear professors, respected professionals; please leave translation to professionals. Please, be aware that you are damaging our language!