Easy language: understandable communication for all Heidelberger

Easy language: understandable communication for all Heidelberger

Heidelberg shows how important intelligibility is in our immediate and informative world. Often the texts we read in everyday life are anything but clear. Whether it is official letters, instructions or legal texts - many people find it difficult to understand such formulations. Therefore, the idea of the "light language" has established itself. This method helps to formulate texts so that they are easier to understand.

According to the barrier-free information technology regulation, authorities have been obliged to offer information in easy language since 2011. These texts are created by specialized translators that transfer "normal" texts into an easily understandable form. Steffen Schwab, an experienced translator in the "Office for Easy Language" of Lebenshilfe Heidelberg, explains that he follows specific rules when translating. A central rule requires to put the most important thing at the beginning and avoid ambiguities. Words must be clear and clear so that they cannot be misunderstood.

The challenges of translation

This translation is not an easy task. Many terms need additional explanations, and Schwab often has to work with test readers to ensure that the texts are really understandable. For example, when an explanation of volunteering, it was found that the original text was too abstract. The clarification that "people are not paid for it" was necessary to avoid misunderstandings. Schwab emphasizes that it is important to take the feedback seriously and to find solutions together. "You have to understand," he says, "that it is about finding my mistakes." This is an essential part of the translation process that contributes to the quality of the texts.

With regard to linguistic clarity, it is important that the same terms are used for the same object. Schwab has also had his own experiences, which showed him that a clear and constant choice of words is crucial. "I'm a big fan of repetitions," he says. This procedure facilitates the flow of reading and understanding the texts.

Christiane Maaß, professor of media linguistics, emphasizes the importance of the light language. Such simplicity can be decisive, especially in specialist areas where complex language hits lay people. In hospitals, for example, it is important that patients understand instructions and information, since this can have an immediate impact on their health.

light language as communication science

Maaß and your team in Hildesheim continuously examine how light language can be made even more understandable. Their research shows that words such as "real estate transfer tax" are difficult to understand for many. It suggests writing such terms differently in order to improve readability. Recent suggestions such as the use of the mediopuncture could help decipher complex words and increase the comprehensibility.

The application of light language is not only used in administration, but also increasingly in science, culture and media. Maaß observes a steady growth of interest in various areas, which shows that the discussion about accessibility and intelligibility is gaining importance. In Germany, however, compared to Northern Europe, which is already much further developed in this regard, you are not yet at your destination. Reading and teaching materials in easy language have been gang and existing for decades.

Another aspect that is often overlooked is the resistance of the public towards a slight language. Although the texts are clearer and easier, some people sometimes feel insulted because they are assumed that they could not understand complex content. Schwab and Maass are aware of the sensitivity of this topic and are actively working on raising awareness of the importance of easy language in order to achieve a greater acceptance level.

Despite the progressive use of technologies such as artificial intelligence for text processing, the human translator remains irreplaceable. Both experts agree that the technology can be used as support, but the interpersonal interaction, understanding and personal contact are decisive for the quality of the translations. Schwab mainly uses AI-based tools for the first text generation, while the actual translation process with the test readers remains, which cannot be replaced by the technology.

The discussion of rules and standards for the light language continues to be fueled and remains an important part of the public debate. Schwab and Maaß hope that acceptance in society is growing steadily so that more people can benefit from better, more understandable information. A guide to the Easy Language network provides practical instructions on how texts should be designed in order to optimally achieve this target group. This includes the use of simple expressions, avoiding abbreviations and the use of clear and short sentences.

More on the challenges and development of the light language in Germany can be found in a detailed analysis at www.rnz.de .