Thursday, May 26, 2011

Understanding the Differences Between Translation and Interpretation

Role of the translators is to convert written materials from one language into another language. Translators require distinct set of skills and aptitudes because, the documents that they translate must be as flawless as possible. Translators must have deep knowledge of languages which they are translating as well as the ability to communicate clearly. The translator needs to understand all the nuances and idioms that are present in the original language and translate them into the other language while retaining the original meaning intact. Some industries also requires specialized translators like banking, finance, economics, engineering, administration and policy, information technology etc.

Interpretation is the process of converting one spoken language into another language. Process of interpretation demands strong research and analytical skills, mental dexterity, and an exceptional memory. There are two types of interpretations, one is simultaneous interpretation which requires interpreters to listen and speak at the same time and the other is the consecutive interpretation that begins only after the speaker has verbalized a group of words or sentences. Interpreters work in real time situations and they will be in direct contact with the speaker and the listener. They rely primarily on their linguistic expertise acquired through training and experience. Interpreters also act as a facilitator between speaker and listener, both linguistically and diplomatically.

Main difference between the translation and the interpretation lies with the nature of the communication channel. Translation deals with the written communications, whereas the interpretation deals with the oral communication. Translators work on written documents, whether they are books, essays, legal documents etc. while the interpreters are involved in circumstances that require live translation.


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