To benefit from globalization and succeed globally, your business needs to communicate with an international audience. In order to make your content resonate with the market in its native language, you may need interpretation services and translation services. People often get confused between them or use them interchangeably. So in this blog, we have simplified the differences between interpretation and translation services.
Although interpreters and translators have similarities, both require a different kind of skill set. Interpreters mediate languages orally in real-time, while the translators work with written documents. Translators need to have solid reading comprehension, transfer, and target production skills. Interpreters need to optimize their memory to render content much more quickly without the support of any external resource. However, both require deep cultural and linguist understanding, knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to communicate clearly.
Interpretation
Interpretation is the service that takes place right at the moment. It is delivered simultaneously or immediately after the original speech. It takes place without the help of scripts, dictionaries, or any other reference material. Professional interpreters need to transpose the source language while preserving the original meaning but rephrasing the idioms, colloquial words, and other culturally specific references in a way that the audience can understand. Their only resources are experience, good memory, and quick reflexes.
Translation
Probably, the greatest difference between translation services and interpretation services is that most professional translators use computer-aided tools for their work. It includes converting the source content into a file that’s easy to work with. As they go through each section they may refer to glossaries along with the translation styles guide. It ensures the quality of the translated document. Lastly, they pass their work to another linguist to proofread and then convert the final document to its original format to ensure the best possible match.
5 Major differences between interpretation and translation
1. Format
Interpretation deals with spoken communication in real-time, whereas in translation services, everything is about written documents.
2. Delivery
Interpretation takes place right away (in person and over the phone). The translation services can happen long after the source was created. It gives the translator plenty of time to utilize tools and technology to ensure high-quality service.
3. Accuracy
When we compare both, the interpretation requires a lower level of accuracy than the translation. Although the interpreters aim for perfection, it is not possible to be 100% accurate in a live setting.
4. Direction
Interpreters must be fluent in both; source as well as target language as they are required to translate in both directions quickly without any help. However, the translators only work in one direction.
5. Tones
Describing metaphors, analogies, and idioms that resonate with the target audience is a real challenge that both interpreters and translators face. However, interpreters need to capture the tone, inflections, voice quality, and other elements of the spoken word.
To wrap up
We hope that by now you have understood the difference between translation and interpretation services. Are you looking for professional interpreting services? You can count on Semantics. Semantics interpretation services are known for dedication and quality. So no need to wait any longer! Connect now to get a quote today.
