Translator or Interpreter, Which is the Difference?
For a company to be successful internationally it needs to break across the barriers of language. It must create messages that can be understood by audiences throughout the world without losing fluidity and the precise meaning in the original language. When looking for translation or interpretation services, it is normal to see them as aspects of the same service —in fact, both terms as often used as synonyms. However, interpreters and translators have distinct and specific abilities. When you understand their different functions, it becomes evident that they provide a distinct service. Thus, clients must be clear on the type of support they require.
Main Differences Between a Translator and an Interpreter?
Translation and interpretation are two professional areas that are closely linked. This is why they are often referred to indistinctly. Both need well-developed linguistic and cultural abilities. Also, to work as an interpreter or translator it is necessary to have the capacity to communicate ideas clearly and make the change from one language to the other in a quick and precise manner, while having full control of the subject area
Now, there are specific differences between translation and interpretation, with the main and most relevant being the mode of messaging each helps to convey. This is why at Servicio Lingüístico Empresarial we want to give you the information you need to hire the service that is adequate for your company.
Characteristics of an interpreter
- The interpreter orally tries to convey a message.
- It is a service that is provided immediately, on the spot.
- For an interpretation to occur there must be a live presenter or speaker.
- As the service takes place live, there is no support from scripts, dictionaries, or any other reference materials.
- This type of service is mainly requested for events such as conferences, meetings, medical appointments, judicial proceedings, sign language and audiovisual media programs.
Characteristics of a translator
- A translator has to convey a written message from one language to another
- A translator needs to have superior writing skills —excellent spelling and vocabulary— and, overall, a solid mastery of the language, including of technical terms and colloquial expressions.
- To support his work, he has the option of consulting glossaries, dictionaries, and style guides, to guarantee a high quality of the finished document.
- The majority of translators use computerized systems that permit them to work faster.
- A translation is a service focused on texts and documents. It could be the case that if you require the translation of a document of an official or legal nature, it will also require special certification.
- There is always the possibility of another linguist revising the translation. Also, on occasion the final text is re-converted to the initial language to ascertain that the translated document closely matches the original.
Clearly Understand your Objective to Hire the Adequate Service
As in every kind of service, it is ideal that you understand your needs clearly. Maybe you are interested in closing a deal abroad and need to send the charter of your company in English, or maybe you are organizing an event in which a speaker will give a presentation in English, and you want him understood by a Spanish-speaking audience, for which you need an interpreter. In any case, you will need someone to support you that acts with professionalism and ethics, and has full mastery of the language, to deliver quality work that conveys the desired message.
Now you know the differences between a translation and an interpretation. You can now make a decision based on the specific needs of your company. We must always have clearly in mind what we need. Do I want translated a document full of technical terms or a text on a general theme? It is necessary to count with the support of an experienced team that provides professional linguistic services with ability and confidence, giving you the assurance that you will receive the high-quality results you expect.
At Servicio Lingüístico Empresarial we provide the translation and interpretation services that your company needs. We always give the best quality service and focus on offering you the best experience. Get to know all of our services on this website. If you have questions or require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. At SLE we provide linguistic services tailored your specific needs.
