Translator or interpreter? What is the difference?

While a translator transforms text written in one language into text written in another, an interpreter transforms words spoken in one language into words spoken in another. There are different types of interpretation. Simultaneous interpretation involves the interpreter sitting in a booth listening to a speaker with the aid of headphones. The interpreter translates the speaker’s words simultaneously. Conference participants requiring a translation are able to listen to the interpreter over headphones. A sub-category of simultaneous interpretation is called chuchotage, or “whispered interpretation”. This is used when there are no interpretation booths available and only one person present requires a translation. The interpreter sits next to the client and whispers the translation into the client’s ear. Consecutive interpreting usually requires the interpreter to sit close to the speaker. The interpreter listens as the speaker is talking, while at the same time taking notes using a specially developed technique. At intervals of 5 to 10 minutes, (taking advantage of when the speaker pauses or stops), the interpreter then repeats the speaker’s words in a different language. Business interpretation often requires the interpreter to be present at discussions involving two or more parties. The interpreter translates back and forth between two languages as required.

If we all understand English, why do we need qualified interpreters? English has replaced French as the language of diplomacy and is now widely regarded as a lingua franca, a common language in Europe. The majority of conferences these days, in particular medical and technical conferences, are held almost exclusively in English. Although most people’s knowledge of English enables them to make casual conversation, when it comes to important business or political matters, people prefer to use their mother tongue, as this gives them the confidence of knowing they are correctly expressing themselves. An experienced professional conference interpreter has acquired linguistic skills and specialist vocabulary over a number of years and is thus best placed to enable people speaking different languages to communicate with each other.