This document discusses the differences between prescriptivism and descriptivism in IP translations and which approach is best. Prescriptivism emphasizes strict grammar rules while descriptivism is more fluid. Using only prescriptivism can increase costs and time on translations. A balance of both approaches is ideal, with prescriptivism for accurate language and descriptivism to convey meaning when strict grammar is not required to save resources. The best translation services can balance these approaches and manage the entire IP application process.

1. PRESCRIPTIVISM
VS .
DESCRIPTIVISM
How both
can affect IP
translations.

2. TRANSLATION
 IP translation ser vices rely on the ability of the translator to
understand the language and translate words correctly.
 Grammar and structure play a large part in the translation process.
Which method should be employed to ensure a
successful patent translation?

3. EMPHASIZING PRESCRIPTIVISM
 Extremely correct grammar and usage
 Budget effects
 Time spent on translation & deadlines

4. CORRECT GRAMMAR & USAGE
 Prescriptivism really emphasizes correct grammar and usage.
 This can be a benefit to improving the quality of a patent or IP
translation.
 The clearer the translation, the better the patent will do in foreign
markets.

5. TIME SPENT ON TRANSLATION
 The more prescriptive the approach, the more time will be spent on a
translation.
 Most IP translation projects are on a deadline.
 Spending too much time on one translation project could prevent
other projects from getting completed.

6. BUDGET EFFECTS
 How prescriptive a translation can be depends on the budget.
 Budget funds might get used up more quickly if prescriptivism is
emphasized too much, because of the time it takes to edit and
critique the translation.
 If you go over budget for IP translation, it can cause shortages for
other projects later on.

7. ADDING DESCRIPTIVISM TO THE MIX
 Descriptivism is much more fluid and leaves more up to open
interpretation.
 Sometimes translators will have decide between the two approaches.
 Some translations will be incorrect by prescriptive standards, but still
communicate the correct meaning.

8. FINDING A BALANCE BETWEEN
PRESCRIPTIVISM AND DESCRIPTIVISM
 Both prescriptivism and descriptivism should be applied to
translations.
 Prescriptive helps to keep correct language in translations.
 Descriptive helps to convey meaning in a less conventional way and
save resources.

9. AFTER YOU FIND THE BALANCE…
 IP translations are just one part of a long IP application process.
 Look for a company with a centralized model that will be able to
manage the application from translation to submission.