Communication builds strong relationships! You can only become a successful global brand if you communicate effectively with your target audience. However, you might need interpretation or translation services to overcome language barriers.
It is quite easy to confuse interpretation with translation. Many people believe that translators and interpreters have the same job because they both help convey your message in another language.
This is true to some extent, as both roles share quite a few similarities, but they also have significant differences. Before moving on to these similarities and differences, let’s explore the roles of translators and interpreters in detail!
What Does An Interpreter Do?
Interpreters translate the language orally, or in simple terms, they speak on behalf of others. Since they provide real-time translation of spoken or sign language into another language, interpreters are usually proficient in at least two languages.
However, unlike translators, an interpreter does not have to translate word-for-word, as his primary goal is to convey the actual message’s tone, intent, and meaning as accurately and naturally as possible. Hence, they are highly aware of the cultural differences, adapting expressions and references to make the message more relevant rather than offering literal translations.
What Does A Translator Do?
In contrast, a translator translates written material, such as texts, articles, and books, into another language. The main job of translators is to produce a highly accurate translated document that maintains the style and tone of the original text. They are highly proficient in at least one language and have excellent written and research skills.
Unlike interpreters, translators have deadlines. They also specialize in preserving the cultural nuances, meaning, and context of the source material and often proofread their work to ensure consistency. Moreover, translators are subject matter experts, using appropriate jargon and working across various industries.
Key Differences Between a Translator and an Interpreter
While both interpreters and translators break language barriers, they operate quite differently, using different tools and charging distinct rates. Where interpreters offer live translation of spoken dialogue or sign language in courts and meetings, translators make written content more accessible, often translating books, articles, and more.
Both of these roles demand a unique set of skills. For example, translators should have exceptional research and writing skills, and interpreters should be excellent listeners. They also have different working environments. The following table highlights some of the main differences between interpreters and translators.
| Feature | Translator | Interpreter |
| Medium | Written | Oral |
| Delivery | Delayed | Instant |
| Service Direction | Single direction | Bi-directional |
| Translation | Highly accurate | Focuses on delivering the intent and meaning |
| Required Skills | Research skills | Cultural knowledge |
| Subject matter expertise | Quick thinking | |
| Writing skills | Listening skills | |
| Reading comprehension | Public speaking | |
| Rates | Vary by language (per word, per hour, or per page) | By the length of the job |
| Setting | Corporate offices, publishing houses, advertising agencies. | Medical appointments, conferences, court proceedings |
| Types | Legal | Simultaneous |
| Medical | Consecutive | |
| Technical | Whispered | |
| Finance | Relay |
Medium
Both interpreters and translators convert from one language to another, but they have different mediums. Interpreters deal with spoken dialogues and sign languages on the spot, and translators focus on written content. Hence, they both have different working conditions, rates, and skills.
Delivery
Another major difference is their time of delivery. Written translations take considerable time, days, weeks, or even years. Translators set deadlines based on the amount of work and the availability of resources, such as computer-assisted translation tools, dictionaries, and more.
They often conduct multiple quality checks and edits before delivering the final result to the client. In contrast, interpreters offer quick translations of the speaker’s words, typically in person, over a call, or via video.
Service Direction
You can be proficient in multiple languages as a translator. However, most translators focus on one language. They work in a single direction, and by that, we mean that they translate the original text to their target language.
On the other hand, interpreters translate conversations and exchanges between two or a group of people, which requires them to be fluent in both source and target languages.
Translation Accuracy
Both interpreters and translators provide highly accurate translations. But where the former adapts cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and references to deliver the message more naturally, the latter preserves the original style and tone of the text.
Interpreters focus more on delivering the original intent and tone of the message, often opting out for word-for-word translations. Meanwhile, translators use specialized terms to convey the purpose and tone of the source material.
Required Skills
Both translators and interpreters require a unique set of skills. Translators are usually excellent writers with exceptional technical and research skills, producing accurate and error-free content. They are experts in their fields and have an extensive vocabulary, which allows them to maintain the original intent of the source material.
Meanwhile, interpreters are usually quick thinkers and impressive public speakers. They translate conversations, court proceedings, and conferences on the spot without omitting important details.
Rates
Both interpreters and translators also have a different way of charging money. Translators set their rates based on the language and workload, generally charging by the hour or number of words. In contrast, interpreters usually charge by the length of their job, often setting hourly rates. You can contact various translators or interpreters to get an estimate before choosing either option.
Setting
Both translators and interpreters operate in different environments. Interpreters work in high-pressure and real-time settings such as conferences, healthcare facilities, and court proceedings. Therefore, they are often quick thinkers with excellent listening and interpersonal skills.
In comparison, translators work in a more laid-back environment, such as corporate offices and publishing or translation agencies. Since most of them work independently, they don’t face as much pressure as interpreters, leaving more room for multiple reviews and edits.
Types
Translators and interpreters both cater to different communication requirements, providing various services. However, translators have a broader range of career options than interpreters, translating literary, legal, financial, and medical content. You can even find localization specialists in this field.
In comparison, interpreters have limited prospects! They play a prominent part in healthcare, tourism, legal firms, and government positions. You can find a variety of interpreters, including simultaneous, relay, consecutive, whisper, liaison, and more.
Similarities Between a Translation & Interpretation Service
Translation and interpretation may have different types and modes of operation, but they are quite alike in a few aspects. Both services act as a bridge between people of various countries, regions, and more, facilitating cross-cultural communication.
Moreover, they both require highly experienced individuals with an expert level of language proficiency and a deep understanding of various cultures, including all the nuances, idiomatic expressions, and social practices. Furthermore, both services focus on providing accurate translations, requiring highly skilled professionals with unique skills to convey messages across different cultures and languages.
Bottom Line
Both translation and interpretation are essential for connecting with a global audience. Highly skilled translators and interpreters can help you impress your international customers/audience. Understand the differences between these roles and choose the most suitable service for your business. And, if you are looking to localize your content, connect with a reliable professional translation service provider and speak to the heart of your target audience.
