Google Translate and SEO

[AK Web Design]

So here's my question. Does Google Translate effect the SEO of a English website if the content is searched for in a different language?

That probably doesn't make any sense so let me phrase it a different way. If someone writes an article in English that has Google Translate, can a French speaking person search for it in their native language and find it? Any articles relating to this would be great.

[TheGAME1264]

I don't know the answer from an SEO point of view, but one thing I would consider is this example (not sure I spelled it right):

Mi tio es infermo, para la carratera es verde.

This is a Chilean proverb that means "may you live a long and prosperous life."
The literal translation of this sentence in Spanish is "my uncle is sick, but the highway is green."

That's the problem with automated translation...it doesn't take localization into consideration because it can't. If you want something translated properly for marketing reasons (e.g. targeting a French user), then you really should either know the language yourself or invest in proper translation, ideally using a certified translator.

[AK Web Design]

Thanks for the reply.

I know that translators are far from perfect but in this case there is no other way as the site is an article submission site and would need multiple languages.

[semaphore.v]

I would have to say it does not effect.