Google Translate is free, which might make it seem like a great way to save on translation services. So, why not just use Google Translate? There are several significant flaws that can put your business at risk, especially when dealing with legal documents, policies, and procedures. Here are some key issues with Google Translate:

Literal Translations: Common expressions and technical terms may be translated too literally or missed altogether, as Google Translate does not always capture idiomatic meanings or

Contextual Errors: Google Translate often fails to provide accurate context for translations, leading to awkward or incorrect results. These errors can be humorous but become problematic when critical information is mishandled.

Grammatical Issues: The tool struggles with grammar, including differentiating between informal (tú) and formal (usted) tones in languages like Spanish. Using the wrong tone can appear unprofessional or even insulting.

Lack of Error Correction: Google Translate lacks a system for reporting and correcting translation errors. There is no way to ensure that sentences are translated correctly without someone fluent in both languages reviewing them.

Professional Limitations: The tool often makes poor word choices and lacks the critical thinking skills required for business contexts. It struggles with complex grammatical concepts and can produce nonsensical results.

The errors that Google makes can be embarrassing for a business at the least and can cause serious liability issues at the most.

When to Use Google Translate?:

Google translate can be very useful for someone who is fluent in both languages.  If they can’t think of a specific word or how to communicate a certain sentence, they can use it and then check it against their own knowledge in the language.  Never use Google Translate blindly.