Knowledge · Definitions
What is a revision in translation?
A second qualified review in accordance with ISO 17100 (four-eyes principle)
Revision is the bilingual review of a translation by a second qualified person, who compares the target text with the source text to ensure accuracy, completeness, correct terminology and suitability for the agreed purpose. Under ISO 17100, revision is a mandatory step in every standard-compliant specialised translation.
The person carrying out the revision must not be the same as the translator and must hold at least the same level of subject-matter qualification. This catches errors, omissions and inconsistencies that would be missed in a single translation.
Revision, editing and proofreading: What's the difference?
The key distinction is between bilingual and monolingual: only revision includes a comparison against the source text.
Revision
Comparison of target and source text by a second specialised translator to check accuracy, completeness, terminology and fitness for purpose. Mandatory step per ISO 17100.
Editing
Review in the target language only, focusing on style, language and clarity, with more substantial intervention in the text where necessary Without comparison against the source text.
Proofreading
Purely formal review in the target language: spelling, grammar, typography and consistent spelling conventions. It does not change the content.
What gets checked in revision?
- Accuracy and completeness against the source text
- Terminology consistency (Glossary und translation memory)
- Style and register fit for purpose and target audience
- Suitability for the agreed purpose (e.g. specialist audience or publication)
- Formal correctness and compliance with the project specifications
Why is revision mandatory under ISO 17100?
ISO 17100 sets out the requirements for a quality-assured translation process. A core component of this process is revision by a second qualified person. This is not an optional extra, but a binding step. This means that the translation is not the work of a single person, but the result of a documented four-eyes process.
COMLOGOS carries out revision as standard practice and is certified under ISO 17100, ISO 18587 and ISO 9001. For machine draft translation, full human post-editing in accordance with ISO 18587 replaces classical revision..
Further information
What is ISO 17100?
The standard behind the four-eyes principle: process, roles, and requirements.
Proofreading & Review
Revision, editing and proofreading as standalone services, including for translations from other providers.
Technical Translation
Specialised translation with revision according to ISO 17100 as the standard.
Frequently asked questions on revision
What is revision in a translation?
Revision is the bilingual review of a translation by a second qualified person, who compares the target text with the source text to ensure accuracy, completeness, correct terminology and suitability for the agreed purpose. Under ISO 17100, revision is a mandatory step in every standard-compliant specialised translation.
What is the difference between revision, editing and proofreading?
The crucial difference is whether the review is bilingual or monolingual. Revision under ISO 17100 compares target and source text. Editing and proofreading work only in the target language. proofreading checks formal aspects such as spelling, grammar and typography. Editing additionally looks at style and clarity.
Is revision under ISO 17100 an obligation?
Yes. ISO 17100 requires every translation to be revised by a second qualified person, in line with the four-eyes principle. The person carrying out the revision must not be the same as the translator and must hold at least the same level of subject-matter qualification.
Who is authorised to carry out a revision?
A second specialised translator who holds at least the same qualifications and subject-matter expertise as the original translator, and who is not the same person.
What gets checked in revision?
The revision must ensure accuracy and completeness against the source text, consistent terminology, style and register, fitness for the agreed purpose and target audience, and formal correctness.
Translation with revision per ISO 17100
Do you need a standards-compliant specialised translation or the revision of an existing translation? Talk to us about the scope, terminology and your intended purpose.
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