Google Translate is reportedly developing a new feature called "Show alternatives" that allows users to see several translation alternatives for one sentence.
As the name suggests, this feature will display translation options with subtle differences in meaning or different levels of formality. Although the feature seems ready to be launched, it is not clear when Google will officially release it.
Google has recently added an artificial intelligence touch to the Translate application. Previously, the company was known to be working on a new button that could provide additional contextual information about translation results. Even before the feature was released, Google apparently had another improvement ready that allows users to choose a translation alternative.
Three Alternatives to Translation
This feature is available in Google Translate version 10.0.36.855137688.3 for Android. However, the feature has not been directly visible in the application interface. By forcing the application to display the "Understand" and "Ask" buttons, which are still in the development stage, the "Show alternatives" option appears just below the translation results.
When the button is pressed, the app displays three translation alternatives with slightly different emphasis on meaning. The difference can be seen, for example, in the way business divisions or certain terms are called in different contexts. Although ideally the app is able to handle nuances like this automatically, the presence of translation alternatives gives users the space to play a more active role, especially when the meaning of the sentence is not completely clear.
Ready to Release, But Not Yet Seen
Each translation alternative can be expanded to display a more detailed usage context. One of the challenges in many languages, especially those less familiar to users, is the difference in formality levels.
In a number of languages, the choice of words changes depending on the relationship between the speaker and the interlocutor. The "Show alternatives" feature is said to help users determine the most appropriate choice in this type of situation.
The addition of this feature has the potential to be one of Google Translate's biggest improvements in recent times. Although it seems ready to use, there is no certainty when Google will launch it. This feature will likely be released simultaneously with the "Understand" and "Ask" buttons, which are also still in the development stage
The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by the AI. So there may still be inaccuracies in translating, please always see Indonesian as our main language. (system supported by DigitalSiber.id)
