Translation and interpretation are often confused as two different terms having the same qualities. However, both have differences more than one. Companies that are planning to expand their business horizons often feel the need to avail professional interpretation and translation services, but many are not aware of their distinct features.
Although both the services require intensive knowledge of the cultural and linguistic practices of the languages concerned, the plan of action is entirely different.
The major difference between the two lies in the line of service. A translator works on a written document and converts it from one language to another while an interpreter needs to listen to a spoken language orally or from other audio sources like seminars, webinars, conferences, client meetings, medical appointments, legal hearings, live TV coverage, sign language and then translate it to another language.
- There was a time when the translators used to translate word-for-word translation in a written document. However, this practice has changed over the past few years, and now the professional translators depend on technological tools to get their work done. Online tools might serve the purpose for short phrases, but ultimately it’s the responsibility of a professional to translate the phrases correctly. Interpreters, on the other hand, pay attention to intricate details like paraphrasing and transposing while keeping the actual context of the text intact.
- Immediacy in producing the final delivery is one of the main concerns of professional interpreters. They need to meticulously follow the source content and write down the interpreted content without enlisting help from any other references. Translators don’t need to work on quick reflexes like the interpreters. They get enough time to leverage the tech tools and use reference materials to develop quality deliverables.
- While translators need to have sharp cognitive abilities, good memory, and excellent communication skills, the translators should have dab hands in writing skills. However, both should strictly adhere to the tone and style of the source content and maintain that flavor and accuracy on their deliverables.
- The interpreters need to pay more heed to the use of figure of speech, idioms, and inferences while translators may or not necessarily need to focus on that. However, both should be well read and have a knowledge of all these and work per the client requirements.
- Given to the immediacy of delivering the final content, the interpreters might not be too keen on meticulous accuracy. Translators get an extended span of time to maintain accurate and high-quality content.
Now that you know the significant differences between the two, you can now avail translator and interpreter services accordingly. Multilanguage Services has a proven track record of delivering high-quality content near Michigan and its surrounding areas. Contact us now for a free quote.