Whether you’re a business looking to expand into new markets or a healthcare provider needing to serve a diverse patient population, language services are essential. But do you know the difference between translation and interpretation? Even though these terms are often used interchangeably, and they both involve transferring information from one language to another, they are distinct disciplines with unique challenges and processes. Let’s dive in!
What is translation?
Translation involves converting written content from one language to another. Translators work with various materials, from legal documents and contracts to websites and software. Because translation is based on written content, the accuracy of the language is paramount.
How does translation differ from interpretation?
Unlike interpreters, translators have the advantage of time to analyze the source text, research terminology, and to refine their work through multiple revisions. They can also leverage computer-assisted translation tools, specialized dictionaries, and other resources to accurately convey the original meaning of the source text.
While accuracy is paramount in both fields, the nature of the translation task requires to delve deeper into the intricacies of language and culture. Every word and nuance must be conveyed precisely. For this reason, the translation process often has more phases than interpretation. After the initial translation, the document undergoes a rigorous editing and proofreading process to ensure that the original meaning is faithfully preserved and the style is consistent.
Here are a few examples of the wide range of texts that translators work with:
Legal documents, such as contracts, agreements, and terms and conditions.
Official documents, such as college diplomas, transcripts; birth, death and marriage certificates; etc.
Marketing copy, such as product descriptions, web pages and social media posts (which often involve localization and transcreation of the source material).
Technical documentation, such as user guides and instruction manuals.
Literary works, such as novels, short stories, and poetry.
What is interpretation?Interpretation, on the other hand, is the dynamic process of converting one spoken language into another in real time. An interpreter listens to what a speaker says and reproduces it in another language.
Imagine a bustling international conference where speakers and attendees communicate across different languages. This is the realm of interpretation. Interpreters possess an extraordinary ability to listen, comprehend, and convey meaning instantaneously, often under immense pressure. They must not only be linguistically proficient but also culturally sensitive to accurately capture the nuances of the original speech.
How does interpretation differ from translation?
Unlike a translator, who works with written texts and has time to reflect upon and revise their work, an interpreter must process information on the spot and produce an accurate rendition of the original message and context instantly. This task requires not only a perfect command of both languages but also a high level of concentration, memory, and adaptability.
Some types of interpretation include simultaneous, where the interpreter speaks at the same time as the original speaker; consecutive, where the interpreter speaks after the original speaker has finished a segment; and whispered, where the interpreter whispers the translation into the ear of one or two people.
Here are a few examples of the different settings where interpreters work:
Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, mental health facilities, and rehabilitation centres.
Legal: Courts, police stations, immigration offices, and legal aid societies.
Education: Schools, universities, and vocational training centres.
Conferences and Exhibitions: International trade shows, business meetings, and seminars.
International Organizations: United Nations, EU, NATO, and other diplomatic bodies.
Religious Institutions: Church services, religious ceremonies, and counseling.
Remote Interpreting: Video conferencing, and telephone interpreting.
So, do you need interpretation or translation services?
If you need to translate written content, you’ll need a translator. If you need to facilitate communication at live events, you’ll need an interpreter.
At AZ World, we provide both translation and interpretation services tailored to your specific needs.
Need help choosing the right language services for your project? Contact us today at info@a-zworld.ca or visit https://www.a-zworld.ca.