Similar, but fundamentally different: Translation and Interpreting services
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(Last Updated On: May 13, 2015)
If you are wondering about the difference between interpreting services and translation services, here’s a basic explanation. Interpreting services are used when two people that speak different languages are attempting to communicate, while translation services are used when a document needs to be translated into a different language. You may not think that the difference is significant, but in practice, it is.
The first difference is that translation services are done in private, and they have a deadline. Interpreting services happen in real time, as the conversation is flowing. That’s why when you need to have a document translated, you need somebody who is meticulous, good with words and a thinker. When translating a document the style is equally important to the information, and the flavor of the translated text should not be very different from the one of the original text.
When we’re talking about interpreting services, the information plays the significant role. The whole point is to deliver that information as smooth as possible. Of course, an interpreter needs to know how to cross the language and cultural barriers in order to interpret as accurately as possible. They also need to have a certain knowledge on the topic. But since there is not enough time for an interpreter to have the same meticulously as a translator, it is more important for the information to get to the right place. An interpreter is a practical and active person, one that thinks fast and reacts even faster.
An interpreter also needs to be a people person, one that doesn’t get flustered at the moment. Interpreting services often require somebody who moves quickly, has diplomatic skills and can successfully mediate between two people. One can say that if a translator is a perfectionist hermit, an interpreter is a social butterfly with fast thinking skills.
You should keep all those differences in mind when you are thinking about using interpreting services. Your favorite translator whom you’ve known for years, may not be a great interpreter at all. It’s better to seek somebody who has experience and specialization in this field, as well as understanding of the topic you will communicate. Also, it is vital to communicate your expectations and needs to your interpreter in order to make sure you get the most out of this experience. After all, having a conversation interpreted is not like sending a document to be translated and receiving it back after some time. It takes a lot of open communication and mutual understanding.
Interpreting services happen in real time
If you are wondering about the difference between interpreting services and translation services, here’s a basic explanation. Interpreting services are used when two people that speak different languages are attempting to communicate, while translation services are used when a document needs to be translated into a different language. You may not think that the difference is significant, but in practice, it is.
The first difference is that translation services are done in private, and they have a deadline. Interpreting services happen in real time, as the conversation is flowing. That’s why when you need to have a document translated, you need somebody who is meticulous, good with words and a thinker. When translating a document the style is equally important to the information, and the flavor of the translated text should not be very different from the one of the original text.
When we’re talking about interpreting services, the information plays the significant role. The whole point is to deliver that information as smooth as possible. Of course, an interpreter needs to know how to cross the language and cultural barriers in order to interpret as accurately as possible. They also need to have a certain knowledge on the topic. But since there is not enough time for an interpreter to have the same meticulously as a translator, it is more important for the information to get to the right place. An interpreter is a practical and active person, one that thinks fast and reacts even faster.
An interpreter also needs to be a people person, one that doesn’t get flustered at the moment. Interpreting services often require somebody who moves quickly, has diplomatic skills and can successfully mediate between two people. One can say that if a translator is a perfectionist hermit, an interpreter is a social butterfly with fast thinking skills.
You should keep all those differences in mind when you are thinking about using interpreting services. Your favorite translator whom you’ve known for years, may not be a great interpreter at all. It’s better to seek somebody who has experience and specialization in this field, as well as understanding of the topic you will communicate. Also, it is vital to communicate your expectations and needs to your interpreter in order to make sure you get the most out of this experience. After all, having a conversation interpreted is not like sending a document to be translated and receiving it back after some time. It takes a lot of open communication and mutual understanding.