7 Differences Between Translators And Interpreters Revealed
Translator or interpreter? Are you looking for the right one? I have encountered many clients who are looking for an interpreter, but instead of looking for an interpreter, they look for a translator. Some don’t even know what an interpreter is. Many people think that as long as it involves translation, a translator can do it.
But there’s a difference between a translator and an interpreter. A translator focuses on written documents, while a translator focuses on oral translation. When you are looking for someone to help you with your translation, you need to understand what requirements you need.
These two fields may look similar but there are some differences you need to understand before you hire one. In this article, we will bring you to find out the differences between a translator and an interpreter. By the end of the article, you may understand the difference and hire the one that you need.
Difference Between Translator And Interpreter
1. The Way They Translate
Although both involve in translating from one language to another language, but the way they translate will be different. A translator works on written works, such as translating documents, websites, marketing materials, and many more.
For an interpreter, they translate orally. For example, a meeting involves people who have no common language, an international conference in courts for people involved who don’t use the languages that are used in courts.
You can see how different the way they translate. If you are looking for someone to help you translate, take note if you need to translate a document or if someone else can do it orally. It can be a huge difference.
2. Time
Since translators are doing written translation, they may have more time to prepare as they don’t have to translate on the spot. Of course, it depends on their client’s deadline. They are able to do some checking or use a dictionary when they face problems translating.
For interpreters, it will be more about translating on the spot, and the message given out should have the same meaning as the original speech. Interpreters will need to be familiar with the terms related to the event that they are attending. This helps them to translate more accurately.
The projects that translators take on can last hours, days, or even months. It depends on the complexity of the project. Interpreters have to do it on the spot, but they need to familiarize themselves with the event beforehand.
3. Tools
Translators and interpreters use tools to help them during translation. The tools used for both roles are completely different. They use tools to help them translate better.
The common tools that translators use are usually CAT tools (Computer Aided Translation), computers, and dictionaries. Different translators have their own ways of translating, and the tools they use may differ.
4. Single Direction Vs Bi-Directional Service
Translators usually work in a single direction. This means that they translate from the source language to the target language, which is usually their mother tongue. They only translate text in one direction.
But for interpreter, they will be providing bi-directional service. They may need to translate conversations back and forth between individuals. Interpreters will need to be fluent in both languages that they are translating.
5. Accuracy
Accuracy is important for both translators and interpreters. A translator will need to be more accurate in the words they use as they have been given enough time to do their work. They will use a dictionary, references given by clients for specific terms, and other methods to ensure their accuracy.
This doesn’t mean interpreters don’t need to be accurate when translating. They focus more on the meaning. This is because the interpreter will need to translate on the spot. They translate based on their knowledge and quick thinking.
6. Work Environment
The working environment for translators and interpreters can be completely different. An in-house translator will be working in an office while a freelancer will be working at home, in a café or in a co-working space.
An interpreter will need to work on the spot. The place they work depends on where their client needs them. It can be a conference room or an event hall, or you may even need to go overseas to fulfill the job requirements.
7. Culture And Context
Translation isn’t easy. You will need to understand the culture and context. For translators, it will be easier as they can easily check the context. Translating what they are supposed to mean with technical terms usually has a lesser impact on the culture and context.
For interpreters, they will need to understand the culture beforehand to translate accurately. They will need to understand what are the person saying. Every language has sayings and metaphors which you can’t translate word for word.
Now you have seen the differences between a translator and an interpreter. You should know how to choose for your next project. Choose the right one to increase the accuracy of your project.
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