CAT Tools
Computer-Assisted Translation tools assist translators by increasing speed, accuracy, and consistency through specialised software that segments text, stores previous translations in a memory database, and manages terminology.
Our specific capability: We at Semantics Trans are adept at converting any CAT file format into another CAT tool format, and vice versa, without altering the tags - which is a very important consideration in keeping the original file formatting intact.
How CAT Tools Assist in Translation
Translation Memory (TM)
The core feature of any CAT tool. A database that stores every sentence (segment) being translated. When the same or similar text appears again, the tool suggests the previously saved translation - eliminating re-translation, boosting efficiency and maintaining quality. This can save 10–50% of translation time.
Terminology Management (Termbases)
Integrated glossaries that ensure specific brand names, technical terms, or industry-specific jargon are used consistently throughout a document and across subsequent projects from the same client or subject area.
Segmentation and Workflow
The software breaks a document into smaller, manageable segments with a side-by-side view of source and target text. This eliminates the need to flip between files or overwrite text while referencing the original, saving significant time.
Quality Assurance (QA)
Built-in QA features automatically detect errors such as missing punctuation, formatting issues, inconsistent translations of the same term, or inconsistent terminology use before the final file is exported.
File Format Handling
CAT tools can import various file types (PDF, HTML, MS Office, Adobe Suite, QuarkXPress, and many more) and allow translation without altering the original layout or formatting. The translated text can be exported directly into the original format.
Machine Translation Integration
Many tools integrate with AI/MT engines to provide suggestions that a human translator can then refine and edit, speeding up the process while maintaining human quality control.
Popular CAT Tools We Use
Each tool has specific advantages and shortcomings depending on compatibility with different file formats. The most common features across all are TM build-up and QA.
Trados Studio
The industry standard with the largest market share
Ideal for working with major file formats, with the highest functionality and flexibility.
MemoQ
Highly regarded for its user-friendly interface
Ideal for freelancers and teams requiring collaborative, versatile features.
SmartCat
Free-to-use, cloud-based collaborative platform
Ideal for distributed teams and users looking for a free-to-start, collaborative platform.
Phrase (formerly Memsource)
Often used by large tech companies for high-volume projects
Ideal for SaaS, software localisation, and high-volume multilingual projects.
Wordfast
Flexible tool available for offline and online use
A cost-effective alternative to Trados that can handle multiple file formats.
General Drawbacks of CAT Tools
While CAT tools significantly improve efficiency and consistency, they are not without limitations. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations for projects.
High Costs
Commercial CAT tools can be expensive ($500–$900 for licenses), challenging for freelancers. Licenses are usually annually renewable - if a license expires mid-assignment, work is blocked until renewal.
Contextual Errors
By segmenting text into small, isolated segments, CAT tools can obstruct the translator's ability to understand the overall context, leading to unnatural or inaccurate translations - especially in creative or literary work.
Learning Curve & Technical Issues
Significant time required to learn, and software bugs or crashes can interrupt the translation process.
Over-Dependence on TM
If previous translations in the TM are incorrect, the tool will consistently suggest those errors. Translators must be diligent in catching and correcting these - which may require flagging issues from client-provided TMs.
Design & Compatibility Issues
CAT tools may struggle with heavily formatted documents (PowerPoint, InDesign) where text is in images or separated. Formatting is not visible in the CAT environment, requiring translators to reference the original file simultaneously.
Inappropriate for Certain Content
Generally ineffective for marketing or literary content that requires a high degree of creative, cultural, and stylistic flair rather than just efficiency.
Repetition Errors
Automatic replication of repeated segments may have different context or be fragments of other sentences. Automatic repetition matching should never be taken for granted.
Questions About Our Translation Process?
We select the right tools and translators for each project based on language, subject and file format. Tell us about your project and we will recommend the best approach.