The Limitations of Some AI Applications in Translating Legal Texts into Arabic
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25130/jfa.conf.10.1.21Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, Legal Translation, Machine Translation, Skopos Theory, Terminological ErrorsAbstract
This research investigates the limitations inherent in Artificial Intelligence (AI) translation tools specifically Google Translate, DeepL, and ChatGPT when applied to the translation of legal texts from English into Arabic. Although AI technologies have advanced significantly, their capacity remains inadequate for navigating the complex requirements of legal language, especially between English common law systems and Arabic-speaking civil law jurisdictions. This research employs Christiane Nord’s Functionalist Translation Theory (Skopos Theory) as the sole theoretical foundation to analyze how AI tools fail to meet the functional, legal, and stylistic standards required in Arabic legal contexts. Through an analytical approach including literature review, theoretical framework, case study, and key findings, this paper highlights the persistent deficiencies in AI-driven legal translation and concludes with recommendations underscoring the necessity of human post-editing and oversight.
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