Translation vs. Interpreting
What are the key differences?
Interpretation and translation are very closely related, and at Language Link UK it’s not uncommon for us to be asked for one service, when what’s actually needed is the other (or possibly both!). The good news is that we offer expertise in both translation services and interpreting services, with professional linguists in hundreds of different languages and many specialist fields.
Our customer service team is also experienced, friendly and approachable, and completely used to guiding clients towards the most appropriate service. So, if you’re not sure what you need – professional interpreters or professional translators – you can be sure of a helpful, listening ear and a service tailored to your specific needs.
In the meantime, though, if you’d like to understand more about the different ways that translation and interpreting services can help you to bridge a language barrier, here’s our guide.
What is translation?
The translation process converts written text from one language (the source language) into another (the target language). The translator needs to have a deep understanding of both the source and target languages to make sure they convey the exact meaning of the original writing.
Top-quality translation not only translates the content accurately, but also allows for cultural differences and nuances (known as localisation), ensuring that no meaning is lost or misunderstood.
As well as a high level of proficiency in multiple languages, translators also need to have excellent attention to detail to ensure precision and consistency, good research skills and, potentially, expertise in a specific subject or sector – such as medical, legal or financial.
Where is translation typically used?
Translation is important for all types of written communication, including:
- Legal Documents, like contracts, wills, court documents and personal documents (e.g. passports, birth certificates and marriage certificates)
- Technical manuals, such as instruction guides and product manuals for engineering, aviation, medical, IT, telecoms and defence systems and products
- Medical Records, including patient histories, accident forms and medical reports.
- Insurance documents, such as policies and claims forms
- Business communications, including emails, reports, and marketing materials but also financial documents, patents, contracts, proposals, and regulatory or compliance documents
- Literary, including books, poetry, and other written forms of art.
What is interpreting?
Interpreting, on the other hand, refers to oral translation of spoken words from one language into another in real-time, to allow you to carry on a conversation, or to understand events as they happen. Interpreting speech is a highly specialised skill, demanding not only a high level of proficiency in both languages but also quick thinking and superb listening skills to ensure accurate consecutive and simultaneous interpretation.
Interpreters also need to be good public speakers, with the skills to ensure confidence and clarity when delivering their spoken interpretations (especially if whispering interpreting, or chuchotage, is being used, as speaking clearly but quietly is a skill in itself.)
Where is interpreting typically used?
Interpreting is used in situations where immediate verbal communication and understanding are needed, such as:
- Conferences and Meetings: facilitating communication between speakers of different languages in business meetings, diplomatic gatherings and at business conferences
- Healthcare: ensuring that patients and medical practitioners can communicate clearly, especially in an emergency where quick action might be needed
- Legal Settings: Allowing proceedings to continue smoothly in courtrooms and other legal settings where clear communication between an individual, and legal professional or law enforcement officer is vital.
What are the different types of interpreting, and when are they most useful?
While translation can be specialised for particular industries or sectors, the process of translation is much the same across the board.
Interpreting, though, is rather different, as there are several different methods and techniques, each with different applications and usefulness.
The different methods of interpreting can be broadly categorised as:
- Simultaneous interpreting: where the interpreter translates the speaker’s words in real- time while the speaker continues to talk. Simultaneous interpreting is often used in conferences, where the priority is to avoid disrupting the speaker’s flow, whilst ensuring understanding for the audience.
- Consecutive interpreting: The speaker pauses after a few sentences to allow the interpreter to translate. Consecutive interpreting is commonly used in meetings, medical and legal appointments where the objective is to allow free conversation and to ensure that each person involved fully understands the other.
- Whispered Interpreting: Also known as chuchotage, the interpreter whispers the translation to a small group or individual. This technique is typically used in quiet settings where it’s important not to disturb the speaker or other listeners.
- Remote Interpreting: As its name suggests, remote interpreting is done via phone or video call, allowing for effective interpretation across distances.
Contact Language Link for all of your translation and interpreting needs
Now you know more about the difference between translation and interpreting, we hope you’ll feel more confident next time you need to give us a call to enquire about our language services.
Even if you’re not sure what you need, though, we’ll talk you through your options and recommend a bespoke package to meet your specific translation or interpreting requirements.
At Language Link UK we have over 5,000 expert translators and interpreters with mother-tongue skills in over 200 languages and dialects, along with sector-specific expertise.
If you need a top-quality, reliable and confidential translation or interpreting service, Language Link UK is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us at our offices in Orpington on 01689 283 777, Piccadilly on 0207 484 0999 or City on 0207 830 9330.