How May We Help? Translation vs. Interpretation

Oftentimes, the word “translator” is used as the umbrella term for anything you might need that involves carrying a message from one language to another. In our profession, however, there is a distinction in how the result of the process is delivered.

Translation is always in writing, while interpretation is oral.  So, if someone asked you to get a translator for a conference, he or she in fact needs an interpreter.

Translation and interpretation are really two separate fields, requiring different talents and skills. More often than not, a professional translator will not be comfortable interpreting and vice versa.

While both assume brilliant bilingual skills, here are the most significant differences between the two disciplines:

• While interpreting requires good public speaking skills and being comfortable working in the spotlight, translators are happy to work at home and alone.
• Interpreting dictates that one thinks fast and relies predominantly on short term memory; a translator can take all day figuring out the exact perfect word to use.
• In interpreting, getting a message across accurately is more important than the beauty of the language. After all, chances are no one will remember later what exactly was said. Translators deliver messages that are not only accurate, but should also be elegantly crafted, using idiomatic language and appropriate style. Written word will be easy to track and recover, even a 100 years from now.
• Interpreters must be equally versed in both directions of interpreting (from their native language to the target foreign language and the other way around). Professional translators usually work in one direction only: into their mother tongue.

Both translation and interpreting require not only linguistic expertise, but also knowledge of subject matter. Since neither translators nor interpreters are walking encyclopedias, a fair amount of knowledge acquisition must occur. By the way, continuous learning is the one characteristic of their job that translators and interpreters enjoy the most. For a translator, learning and research may occur as he/she is working on the given assignment. On the other hand, an interpreter must learn all required terminology and context beforehand.

In both cases, you as the customer can be of major help: when asked, work with your translator/interpreter and provide any information that might be relevant to your business or the project on hand. Brochures, web info and marketing materials usually contain a wealth of information on your organization, products and the language you use. Be available for consultations, if need be. Your vendor will be grateful and the results you will receive will be of much higher quality.

And what if the idea to hire a professional linguist comes a bit too late? Watch here for what happens when an in-house employee volunteers to save the day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNKn5ykP9PU

Much love,
Hana