Instruction manual translation with AI – where real risks arise
Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in instruction manual translation due to its speed and lower costs. In technical documentation, however, these advantages can conceal serious risks. Instruction manuals are not ordinary informational texts: they guide the end user, support product compliance, and may be examined in the event of incidents or complaints.
The difference between a text that merely “sounds right” and one that is clear, safe and compliant is critical.
Concrete examples of frequent errors in automated translation
Translations produced exclusively by AI often contain wording that appears acceptable but is dangerous in practice:
Example 1
“Turn off the power before servicing”
❌ “Turn off the power before service.”
✔️ “Disconnect the power supply before carrying out servicing operations.”
➡️ AI translates literally but fails to indicate the actual safety action.
Example 2
“Do not tamper with the device”
❌ “Do not manipulate the device.”
✔️ “Do not interfere with or modify the device.”
➡️ “Manipulate” is ambiguous; manuals require a clear prohibition.
Example 3
“Use only approved accessories”
❌ “Use only approved accessories.”
✔️ “Use only accessories approved by the manufacturer.”
➡️ The lack of clarification creates confusion and misuse risk.
These differences may seem minor, but in technical manual translation they directly affect safety and legal responsibility.
Why human expertise makes the difference
A specialised translator does not translate words, but procedures, risks and obligations. They know when wording must be standardised, when a term must remain consistent throughout the document, and when a sentence must be simplified to prevent misinterpretation.
At Verba Expert, AI is used as a support tool, but final decisions belong to specialised translators and reviewers.
In instruction manual translation, technology supports the process – human expertise protects the product and the user.