Unnatural assistance – There’s a new translation-adjacent profession in town: synthetic-text editing
Abstract
Michael Farrell introduces “synthetic-text editing,” a new profession emerging alongside translation. Unlike machine translation post-editing, this involves revising generative AI output, which often displays redundancy, flat rhythm, contradictions and English-influenced patterns in other languages. Experiments revealed that both professional translators and students struggled to distinguish AI from human writing, while some readers even preferred AI-generated texts. Still, linguistic expertise is essential to correct subtle errors and cultural blunders. Farrell argues that synthetic-text editing will be vital in high-stakes domains like law, medicine and marketing, where precision, authenticity and human tone remain indispensable despite AI’s growing role.
Published in
ITI Bulletin, October 2025; pp. 13-14.
Engaging copy translated literally into English, without taking account of differences in linguistic, semantic and cultural expressions, at best leaves much to be desired and at worst provokes hysterical laughter.
Thanks to my scientific background, I specialize in technical translations. Over the years I have acquired experience in transcreating advertising copy and press releases primarily for the promotion of technology products.
"I am very satisfied: Michael is extremely professional, serious, competent and precise. It is a pleasure to work with him."
