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Differences and similarities between interpreting services and translation services

Simply put, interpretation services are used to facilitate communication between two people speaking different languages ​​trying to carry on a conversation, while translation services are used to take a document and rewrite it as clearly and precisely as possible. to another language. This may not seem like a big difference, but in practice it is.

While translation services often occur in private for a significant period of time, interpretation services occur on the spot, in real time, as the conversation occurs. Translation services do not require an especially fast thinker to perform them, and in fact translation often benefits from a slower and more meticulous writer. Because it allows so much more time, translation services often revolve as much about getting the taste of text right as it is about accurately writing the direct meaning of work.

Interpretation services, on the other hand, are more concerned with simply moving information as smoothly as possible. Certainly, interpreters must have a good idea of ​​how tone, inflection and flavor find their way into an individual’s speech, as well as the different unspoken assumptions embedded in different people’s language and culture to those who are interpreting. But at the end of the day there is simply not enough time at the time of interpretation to approach it with the same care with which a translator approaches his work. An interpreter is not a perfectionist, it just facilitates conversation and the exchange of vital information and that’s it.

Because of this, an interpreter must be able to quickly and easily think on their feet. They cannot be nervous in the moment. They should be good at working with people and great at reading people to make sure their true intent is conveyed. Interpretation services are social; They move quickly and require diplomatic and mediation skills very often.

Take all of this into account when hiring someone to take over your interpreting services. Even if you have a great translator that you have been working with for many years, DO NOT assume that you will naturally be a great interpreter. Look for someone with a proven track record of working in this specialized field and who understands the details of your job. And above all, when you find an interpreter to use, you should communicate with them about your needs and desires within the conversation that they will interpret. Remember that you will be working closely with your interpreter and you will not just drop off some materials that you will collect a week later, so be sure to hire someone you can actually work with.

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