DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRANSLATOR AND AN INTERPRETER

by Bhanvi Kumari All in one business management software

For an ordinary person, there appears no difference between a translator and an interpreter. But, both these professionals have marked differences in their work.

While both professionals deal with language, their job roles are different, and their objectives are different. In this globalized world, the importance of these two professionals is increasing. With their help, businesses are being able to expand to new markets. Thus, businesses need the services of both, and hiring a translation agency in India that has both these professionals on its roll call will be beneficial.

But, before using the services of an agency, one needs to understand the difference between a translator and an interpreter to use them judiciously.

1. Written and Spoken Word

Both the translator and the interpreter convert words from one language into another. But, the mode of this conversion differs for both.

While the translator converts a written word, the interpreter converts the spoken word. The translator translates a written text into another language. The interpreter translates a speaker’s words into another language. Therefore, the skills required to perform these tasks are different.

2. Live Physical Presence

While doing their respective jobs, the physical presence of an interpreter is always necessary. But, this is not the case with a translator. Delivering the work on time, whether done from an office desk, or a remote location is the only concern of a translator.

As interpretation is the task of translating at a live event in front of a live audience, it necessitates the physical presence of an interpreter. On the other hand, a translator will receive a source text to translate, and this job can be done any time and from anywhere, thus live physical presence is not necessary.

3. Differences in Output

There is a huge difference in the way a translator and an interpreter delivers their output. While the translator has time to his/her advantage, he/she could use source materials like dictionaries, style guides, etc., to complete the task. The interpreter does not have the luxury of time.

The interpreter needs to deliver the output almost immediately. He/she must translate the words of the speaker, spoken 5-10 seconds ago, with exact cultural references into the target language almost instantaneously.

4. Two-Way Translation

The ability for two-way translation is with the interpreters. During a liaison interpretation, they can translate to and fro into both the target and source languages. But, this is not the case with translators.

Most translators can translate the text-only into their mother tongue. Thus almost all translators are native language speakers.

5. Use of Tools

While the translator uses computer-aided tools, books, references, dictionaries, etc., to translate, the interpreter uses headphones and a microphone. An interpreter predominantly relies on her/his memory and proficient language speaking ability.

6. Payment Method

An interpreter is paid by the day or by hourly-basis. A translator is paid per word or per-page basis.

Conclusion

Thus, a translator and an interpreter appear to be similar, their job roles, work conditions, and skills are entirely different.