Evaluating Artificial Intelligence Tools In Identifying Translation Techniques In Literary Texts

Abstract

Backround - The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in translation studies has transformed how literary texts are processed, shifting from literal word-for-word transfer to more contextually nuanced approaches. Literary fables demand particular sensitivity to personification, onomatopoeia, and moral messaging. Urgency of Research - Despite the proliferation of AI translation tools, previous studies have predominantly focused on macro-level quality evaluation (e.g., fluency and accuracy) rather than examining the micro-linguistic strategies AI employs. There remains a significant gap in understanding how different AI models identify and apply established translation techniques within Molina and Albir's comprehensive framework of 18 translation techniques. Research Objectives - This study aims to evaluate and compare the performance of four AI tools—ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and DeepL—in identifying and applying translation techniques in the literary fable "The Clever Rabbit," specifically examining how each model utilizes Molina and Albir's 18 translation techniques to achieve dynamic equivalence. Research Method - Adopting a qualitative descriptive approach, this study employs purposive sampling to select translation units demonstrating specific techniques. Data were collected through comparative textual analysis of one English source text and four Indonesian target texts, validated through theoretical triangulation and source triangulation. Research Findings - The findings reveal a clear strategic polarization: generative AI models (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude) demonstrate dominance in complex transformation techniques such as Modulation (20-23%), Equivalence (12-13%), and Explicitation, reflecting deeper contextual understanding. In contrast, DeepL shows extreme reliance on Literal Translation (>65%) with minimal cultural or stylistic adaptation. ChatGPT excels in local adaptation through generalization and particularization; Gemini stands out in narrative vitality through expressive lexical variation; and Claude offers structural efficiency through precise grammatical reduction. Research Conclusion & Novelty - This study concludes that while all AI tools can transfer denotative meaning, generative models (LLMs) are superior in applying high-level translation techniques necessary for maintaining emotional nuance, discourse cohesion, and literary appeal. The novelty lies in its micro-linguistic analysis using Molina and Albir's comprehensive taxonomy across four distinct AI platforms, providing unprecedented insight into the "black box" of AI translation strategies. The findings offer practical guidance for educators, researchers, and translators in selecting appropriate AI tools, emphasizing that critical human post-editing remains indispensable for achieving true literary equivalence.