How to recognize it in the interface
01
The translated text drops a warning, limit or fee that the original states.
Not this pattern: adjusting the politeness a language needs while keeping the meaning, demands and numbers.
Same moment, different copy (illustrative example)
Before
“Refunds may be limited.” (original: non-refundable)
Shows the pattern
After
“This booking is non-refundable.”
The fair alternative
Design guideline
Translates warnings, limits and prices exactly and shows the original on request.
Do
Translates warnings, limits and prices exactly and shows the original on request.
Don’t
Don’t soften warnings, fees or refusals in translation.
Sources
01
European Union, 2005. Unfair Commercial Practices Directive 2005/29/EC, Article 6 (misleading actions). eur-lex.europa.eu ↗
02
European Union, 2024. AI Act, Regulation (EU) 2024/1689, Article 5(1)(a) (manipulative or deceptive techniques). eur-lex.europa.eu ↗
03
OECD, 2022. Dark commercial patterns. OECD Digital Economy Papers No. 336. doi.org ↗
04
Steinert and Kazenwadel, 2024. How user language affects conflict fatality estimates in ChatGPT. Journal of Peace Research. doi.org ↗