I researched various CAT tools for my translation courses at MIIS in order to improve the speed and quality of my translations. One of the programs I looked into was a Japanese IME (input method) called ATOK, or Advanced Technology of Kana-Kanji Transfer. The name refers to the program’s ability to predict the user’s intended meaning (and associated kanji) as they type in kana. I downloaded the trial version to explore the features and was so impressed I ended up purchasing the program.
Suggestions for “おどろく”
While ATOK functions similarly to Google’s IME or other free input methods, the features go much deeper and are useful for both native English speakers and Japanese speakers alike. Using an English keyboard, ATOK provides suggestions based on what was typed, displaying in a drop-down list different kanji, vocabulary, and even English translations or emojis.
ATOK’s Dictionary
What separates ATOK from other IMEs is its access to dictionaries ranging from general Japanese-English dictionaries to legal, medical, slang, and other specialized databases. ATOK provides the user with the exact definition of the word they are using, allowing a translator to confirm the nuance, usage, and register of each vocabulary choice. Going further, ATOK shows synonyms for each word. This is essential to a translator in order to quickly and efficiently chose the most appropriate word for a given text. Rather than combing an online dictionary or a physical dictionary, ATOK gives the user access to this information instantly.
ATOK is not restricted to word-by-word usage. It can also analyze sentences and suggest kanji for any kana within the sentence. This can help a translator move quickly through their work and only double back to confirm kanji once a sentence is written, instead of having to pause at each word and break their flow.
ATOK is able to parse long sentences.
Another feature of ATOK that is particularly useful to any translator using Japanese is its predictive abilities and suggestions for set phrases. When typing an email to a client, it will suggest more formal versions of typed phrases (敬語). This is an indispensable tool for nonnative speakers who are engaging in business with Japanese clients, allowing them to easily confirm they are using the correct formalities in their communications.
Suggestions for set phrases and higher registers
ATOK also offers some smaller features that are worth mentioning. Typing in Japanese vocabulary can yield English translation suggestions (for single words). Typing in “today” or “tomorrow” gives you the option to automatically fill in the date. Also, ATOK tracks your stats hourly as you use the program. This gives you information on your typos, total keystrokes, and total work time. You can see in real time by checking the stats how ATOK reduced the amount of times you need to backspace or fix a mistake.
Usage Statistics
As a budding translator, ATOK has helped me complete translations more quickly and more accurately. Access to ATOK’s dictionaries in particular make the price of the software more than worth the investment. I would recommend the program to any translator dealing with Japanese, regardless of their native language. To read more about ATOK on their official site, click here.
