Watch a Phrase introduction video for translators and editors here

Working with Phrase TMS at Cochrane.mp4


Why we use Phrase at Cochrane

At Cochrane, we use Phrase, a Translation Management System (TMS), to support both the translation process and the overall management of large translation projects. Phrase brings together different tools in one place, making it easier for translators and project managers to work efficiently and consistently.

Below is a short explanation of the main components you will encounter in Phrase.


Translation Management System (TMS)

A Translation Management System (TMS) is software that helps organise and manage translation work. It is used to:

  • create and manage translation projects
  • assign tasks to translators
  • track progress and deadlines
  • store and manage files

You can think of a TMS as the central coordination tool for the entire translation process.


Computer‑Assisted Translation (CAT) tool (Editor)

The Computer‑Assisted Translation (CAT) tool is the part of Phrase where translators do their actual translation work. In Phrase, this is usually called the Editor.

The CAT tool / Editor supports translators by:

  • reusing previous translations
  • suggesting consistent wording
  • checking terminology

The CAT tool does not translate automatically. Translations are always created and reviewed by humans. In Phrase, the Editor also includes machine translation (MT) suggestions and glossaries, which can help translators work more efficiently.


Translation Memory (TM)

A Translation Memory (TM) is a database that stores sentences (also called segments) that have already been translated. When the same or a similar sentence appears again, the system suggests the previous translation. This helps to:

  • save time
  • keep wording consistent across documents

When working in the Editor, each new sentence is compared with the Translation Memory. The tool shows a percentage score to indicate how similar the new sentence is to an existing translation. Higher percentages mean the sentences are more similar and the previous translation can be reused with little or no editing.