What is Computer-assisted Translation?

For some texts, translators use CAT tools (computer-assisted translation), which are translation programs for computer-assisted translation from one language to another. CAT tools are run with translation memories, which form the core of translation technology. A translation memory stores translations in a database so that repeated terms and expressions in the text can be translated consistently. In addition, CAT tools have integrated term databases in which terms are stored across projects. There is a wide variety of CAT software currently used by professional translators. Each program has its own specific features and interface, but the overall functionality is always the same.