Rule-based translation (RBMT) is a type of machine translation that uses a set of rules to translate text from one language to another.
These rules are typically based on the grammar and vocabulary of the two languages involved. RBMT systems are typically more accurate than statistical machine translation systems (SMT) for certain types of text, such as technical and legal documents. However, they can be slower and less flexible than SMT systems.
Types of rule-based translators
There are three main types of rule-based translators:
Direct translators : use a simple word-to-word translation method. This is the simplest type of RBMT system, but it is also the least accurate.
Transfer translators : use a more complex translation method that takes into account the grammar and syntax of the two languages involved. This type of RBMT system is more accurate than direct translators, but it is also more complex and time-consuming to develop.
Interlingual translators: use an abstract representation of meaning to translate between languages. This type of RBMT system is the most accurate, but it is also the most complex and time-consuming to develop.
Advantages of rule-based translation
Accuracy. RBMT systems can be more accurate than SMT systems for certain types of text, such as technical and legal documents.
Flexibility. RBMT systems can be more flexible than SMT systems in handling complex grammar and syntax.
Control. RBMT systems can be more easily controlled by human translators, which can help to ensure the quality of the translation.
Disadvantages of rule-based translation
Speed. RBMT systems can be slower than SMT systems.
Complexity. RBMT systems can be more complex to develop and maintain than SMT systems.
Data requirements. RBMT systems require large amounts of data, such as bilingual dictionaries and grammars.
When to use rule-based translation
RBMT systems are best suited for translating text that is:
Technical or legal. RBMT systems are often used to translate technical and legal documents, where accuracy is essential.
Grammatically complex. RBMT systems can handle complex grammar and syntax, which can be a problem for SMT systems.
Controlled. RBMT systems can be more easily controlled by human translators, which can help to ensure the quality of the translation.