People are using a lot of online language translation apps.
Are there more advantages than disadvantages to such services?
Sample Answer:
Translation applications on the Internet are in widespread use these days. While there are some downsides to this trend, I believe its upsides are more significant.
Admittedly, online translation apps are not without their shortcomings. The most significant one is inaccuracies in interpretation. Because human languages are complex in nature, both from cultural and technical aspects, online translation tools often fail to account for cultural and linguistic nuances such as slang terms, jargon, and other similar culture-specific expressions. As a result, users many experience misunderstandings and possibly cause offence. Another negative implication is overdependence among language learners. Instant access to online translation applications such as Google Translate tempts the language learner to over-rely on them for learning purposes. This, in turn, creates a sense of complacency, creating a generation of incompetent language learners.
Despite the possible issues with frequent use of online translation apps, I share the view that these tools are beneficial. Convenience is the most immediate benefit of translation apps seeing as they save the user time and money. Google Translate, for instance, allows people to translate into over hundred languages instantly and at no cost. Thanks to this interpretation tool, people from all walks of life are more productive in their day-to-day business. From a cultural standpoint, translation apps on the web help overcome language barriers. Gone are the days when people avoided interaction with foreigners when travelling or at conferences for fear and embarrassment of poor language skills. Eliminating language barriers, translation apps enabled greater mutual understanding among people of different language backgrounds. Finally, translation apps can serve as a useful educational tool when used wisely. They can provide instant aid to foreign language learners, allowing them to develop better language skills.
In conclusion, the demerits of using online translation apps pale in comparison to their advantages such as convenience, a heightened sense of mutual understanding among people, and an educational help to the language learner.
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