Interpreting vs Translating - [What Is Interpreting?]

Summary

In this video, the difference between interpreting and translating is explored. Translators work with written text, converting it from one language to another with time to refer to resources. Interpreters, however, handle spoken language, delivering real-time translations in either consecutive or simultaneous forms. The video focuses on interpreting, especially in healthcare settings, emphasizing the use of first-person speech to maintain the speaker's voice. The video also highlights the complexities and skill sets involved in both professions and encourages viewers to share their experiences with interpreters.

Takeaways

• 😀 Interpreting is the conversion of spoken language in real time, while translating involves written text.
• 😀 Translators work with written content, like books, and use resources such as glossaries and dictionaries to ensure accuracy.
• 😀 Interpreters work live, converting spoken messages instantly between languages, which requires a different skill set.
• 😀 Both interpreting and translating are linguistically complex, but they differ in setting and purpose.
• 😀 Interpreters typically use first-person language, saying 'I went to the store,' to maintain neutrality and focus on the speaker.
• 😀 Some interpreters start with third-person language for comfort but shift to first-person for clarity and accuracy in real-time interpretation.
• 😀 Simultaneous interpreting occurs in real time, such as in conferences, where interpreters translate while the speaker is talking.
• 😀 Consecutive interpreting is more common in healthcare settings, where interpreters wait for the speaker to finish before translating.
• 😀 Both consecutive and simultaneous interpreting are challenging, but consecutive interpreting tends to be more effective in bidirectional conversations.
• 😀 In healthcare, consecutive interpreting helps maintain clear communication between patients and providers, especially in small, intimate settings.
• 😀 When seeking language services, it's important to specify whether you need a translator for written work or an interpreter for live conversations.

Q & A

What is the main difference between interpreting and translating?

The main difference is that interpreting deals with spoken language, while translating involves written language. Interpreters convert spoken messages in real-time, while translators work with written texts.

What are some common settings where interpreting is used?

Interpreting is commonly used in healthcare settings, telephone calls, video conferences, and in-person meetings where real-time communication is needed.

What are the roles of a translator compared to an interpreter?

Translators work with written texts, converting a message from one language to another, often using tools like glossaries and dictionaries. Interpreters work with spoken language, converting messages in real-time during live interactions.

Why do interpreters often use first-person speech when interpreting?

Interpreters use first-person speech to maintain the dynamic between the speaker and the listener. This helps the interpreter blend into the background, allowing the focus to remain on the patient or speaker.

What does the use of third-person speech in interpreting imply?

Third-person speech is sometimes used by novice interpreters because it feels less awkward. For example, when a patient says something in Spanish, the interpreter might say, 'She said she went to the grocery store.'

What is the goal of interpreting in terms of voice and message delivery?

The goal is for the interpreter to become the voice of the speaker, delivering the message as if it were the speaker's own words, in the target language.

What is the difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpreting?

Simultaneous interpreting happens in real-time, with interpreters speaking while the speaker is talking, such as in international conferences. Consecutive interpreting involves the speaker talking in segments, with the interpreter translating after each segment.

In which settings is consecutive interpreting typically used, and why?

Consecutive interpreting is commonly used in healthcare settings because it allows for clear, bidirectional communication. It is more effective in smaller settings where conversations happen back and forth.

Why is simultaneous interpreting less common in healthcare settings?

Simultaneous interpreting can be disruptive in healthcare settings, especially when lengthy messages are being communicated. The constant flow of translation might interfere with the conversation's natural rhythm, making consecutive interpreting more effective.

What are the challenges faced by interpreters in healthcare settings?

Interpreters in healthcare settings must accurately convey medical information while maintaining the emotional and cultural nuances of the conversation. This can be difficult due to the sensitive nature of healthcare communication.