Is machine translation gisting translation?

Abstract

This article explores the question of whether machine translation (MT) is translation by analyzing the processes involved in a translator-led ‘traditional’ process against those involved in receiver-led MT gisting. Backed by evidence from recent research on the use of MT, the analysis demonstrates that certain tasks and responsibilities that are normally carried by the professional translator in traditional processes are, in the case of MT gisting, taken on by the receiver of the translation. Therefore, MT gisting can and should be considered translation. The final section of the article presents three reasons why the inclusion of MT gisting in our discipline of Translation Studies enriches rather than impoverishes it.