Common English Mistakes in Engineering Specifications by Italian Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Italian speakers from Italy when writing a Engineering Specification in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of passive voice

The new hydraulic system is designed to improve efficiency in the production line. TWe assembled the componentsare assembled with precision to ensure optimal performance. It is recommended that rRegular maintenance checks are prerfcormmended to prevent any potential issues. The system's specifications are outlined in the attached document, and it is advised thatall guidelines arshould be followed closely.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I changed some of the passive voice sentences to the active voice and made a few other stylistic changes. "

The new hydraulic system is designed to improve efficiency in the production line. We assembled the components with precision to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance checks are recommended to prevent any potential issues. The system's specifications are outlined in the attached document, and all guidelines should be followed closely.

The new hydraulic system is designed to improve efficiency in the production line. The components are assembled with precision to ensure optimal performance. It is recommended that regular maintenance checks are performed to prevent any potential issues. The system's specifications are outlined in the attached document, and it is advised that all guidelines are followed closely.

Mistake Example #2

Using direct translations from Italian (e.g., 'We see us tomorrow' instead of 'See you tomorrow')

The device will be delivered to the client within the next week, and we will see yous at the site for the installation. The machine must be connected to the power supply beforethat the testing phase can begin. Please ensure that all components are checked and verified according to the specifications that we havediscussed last time.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Good work overall. I just made some adjustments so the English would sound more natural."

The device will be delivered to the client within the next week, and we will see you at the site for the installation. The machine must be connected to the power supply before the testing phase can begin. Please ensure that all components are checked and verified according to the specifications that we discussed last time.

The device will be delivered to the client in the next week, and we will see us at the site for the installation. The machine must be connected to the power supply before that the testing phase can begin. Please ensure that all components are checked and verified according to the specifications that we have discussed last time.

Mistake Example #3

Confusing singular and plural nouns

The specification outline for the new hydraulic system includes several components that are crucial for its operation. Each valve and pump areis designed to withstand pressures up to 300 bar, ensuring the system's reliability. The assembly instructions detail how each part fits together, providing clear guidance for the technician.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for proper usage of singular vs. plural nouns."

The specification outline for the new hydraulic system includes several components that are crucial for its operation. Each valve and pump is designed to withstand pressures up to 300 bar, ensuring the system's reliability. The assembly instructions detail how each part fits together, providing clear guidance for the technician.

The specification outline for the new hydraulic system include several component that are crucial for its operation. Each valve and pump are designed to withstand pressure up to 300 bar, ensuring the system's reliability. The assembly instruction detail how each part fit together, providing clear guidance for the technician.