Translation vs. Interpretation
The key difference between translation and interpretation lies within the choice of communication channel. Simply put, translation deals with written communication, while interpreting is all about the spoken word
Translators work on written documents, including books, essays, legal documents, medical records, websites, instruction manuals, subtitles for film or TV, or any other form of information in written form. Interpreters, on the other hand, are involved in projects that require live translation; for example conferences and business meetings, medical appointments and legal proceedings
Both translators and interpreters have a deep linguistic and cultural knowledge of their working languages, as well as the ability to communicate clearly and succinctly. It is, however, important to highlight the distinctive features of these two professions
Translators generally work from their home computers, and tend to specialize in a particular field. Good translators have excellent written skills and are usually perfectionists by nature, paying particular attention to the style of the source documents, as well as the accuracy and significance of the terms used within their translations
Unlike translators, interpreters do not provide a word-for-word translation; instead, they transpose spoken messages from one language into another, instantly and accurately. Interpreters work in real-time situations, in direct contact with both the speaker and the audience. They rely primarily on their linguistic expertise acquired through training and experience - a sentence in one language may be rendered an entirely different way in another. Good interpreters are endowed with very quick reflexes, as well as a good memory and speaking voice. An interpreter is often more than an on-demand translator, however - they also act as a facilitator between speaker and listener, both linguistically and diplomatically
Testimonials
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I am the creator and host of a radio show entailed The J-Pop Exchange which airs on WVCR 88.3 FM in the US. I have been using Translation Central for nearly all my Translation needs (and would use them for all my needs if I could). I keep coming back to them because of the very high quality translations that I receive along with their professional and efficient service. I believe that I owe a significant portion of my success to Translation Central's efforts in breaking down language barriers. Thanks to their translation expertise, many well respected Japanese composers and artists (Michiru Oshima, Yusaku Kiyama, Shinji Miyazaki, Kokia, Kenji Kawai, Kazunori Maruyama, and more) all consented to exclusive interviews with me for my radio program. Thank you so much! I hope the level of quality and service from Translation Central never change!
Sean Robbins, Loudonville, Nueva York - USA