IP translation
Description
Intellectual property must be protected globally, which means IP documents must be translated into the official languages of every jurisdiction where protection is sought. IP translation is high-stakes; a single mistranslated technical term or ambiguous legal phrase can limit the scope of a patent or lead to its rejection.
This discipline covers various document types, including patent specifications, claims, office actions, prior art and legal briefs. Translators must be experts in the relevant technical field (e.g., biochemistry, engineering, software) as well as the specific legal formatting required by patent offices like the EPO, JPO or CNIPA. Accuracy and consistency are paramount to ensuring the enforceability of rights across borders. RWS leverages Human + Technology workflows, using translation memory (TM) and machine translation (MT) tools alongside expert linguists to deliver high-quality IP translations efficiently.
Example use cases
- Filing: Translating patent applications for foreign filing via PCT or Paris Convention routes.
- Litigation: Providing certified translations for court proceedings and disputes.
- Validation: Translating claims or full specifications for European patent validation.
- Information: Translating prior art or competitor patents for R&D analysis.
- Office actions: Translating official correspondence from patent offices to enable response.
Key benefits
RWS perspective
RWS is the world’s leading provider of patent translation services. We understand that patent translation is not just about language; it is about protecting the value of innovation.
Our approach combines the expertise of PhD-level linguists and subject-matter experts with advanced translation technology. We use specialized machine translation engines trained on patent data, refined by human experts to ensure accuracy. Whether enabling a global filing strategy or supporting high-stakes litigation, RWS delivers translations that stand up to scrutiny in any jurisdiction.