Common English Mistakes in Engineering Specifications by Korean Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Korean speakers from South Korea when writing a Engineering Specification in English.

Mistake Example #1

Incorrect word order in complex sentences

The device, which weas designed to improve energy efficiency,it requires testing under various conditions to ensure optimalperformanceoptimal. In the initial phase, the components should be assembled carefully, and whenthe system, when it is activated,it must be monitored closely for any irregularities. TAfter the results, after they are collected,they will be analyzed to determine ifany modifications are necessary to meet the outlinedspecificationsoutlined.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I fixed the word order to reflect proper English usage and adjusted some of the phrasing for fluidity and readability."

The device, which was designed to improve energy efficiency, requires testing under various conditions to ensure optimal performance. In the initial phase, the components should be assembled carefully, and when the system is activated, it must be monitored closely for any irregularities. After the results are collected, they will be analyzed to determine if any modifications are necessary to meet the outlined specifications.

The device, which we designed to improve energy efficiency, it requires testing under various conditions to ensure performance optimal. In the initial phase, the components should be assembled carefully, and the system, when it is activated, must be monitored closely for any irregularities. The results, after they are collected, will be analyzed to determine if modifications are necessary to meet the specifications outlined.

Mistake Example #2

Omitting articles ('a', 'an', 'the')

The device must be installed in accordance with thespecifications outlined in themanual. Ensure thatthe sensor is placed at thecorrect height toaccurately detect changes in theenvironmentaccurately. During installation,the technician should verify that all connections are secure and thesystem is calibrated properly to avoid malfunction.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to add missing articles ("the," "an," etc.)."

The device must be installed in accordance with the specifications outlined in the manual. Ensure that the sensor is placed at the correct height to accurately detect changes in the environment. During installation, the technician should verify that all connections are secure and the system is calibrated properly to avoid malfunction.

The device must be installed in accordance with specifications outlined in manual. Ensure that sensor is placed at correct height to detect changes in environment accurately. During installation, technician should verify that all connections are secure and system is calibrated properly to avoid malfunction.

Mistake Example #3

Confusion with prepositions ('in', 'on', 'at')

The new design specifications for the hydraulic pump are detailed in the document. The pump should operate efficiently in high-pressure environments and must be tested ounder various conditions. The testing will be conducted atin the laboratorylocated on the third floor, and results should be documented inby thereport by end of the week.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"A few prepositions needed to be fixed. Otherwise, very nice job! "

The new design specifications for the hydraulic pump are detailed in the document. The pump should operate efficiently in high-pressure environments and must be tested under various conditions. The testing will be conducted in the laboratory on the third floor, and results should be documented by the end of the week.

The new design specifications for the hydraulic pump are detailed in the document. The pump should operate efficiently in high pressure environments and must be tested on various conditions. The testing will be conducted at the laboratory located on the third floor, and results should be documented in the report by end of the week.