Translation VS Interpretation

Summary

The video discusses the differences between translation and interpretation, emphasizing key concepts for a translation class. It explains that translation involves converting written text from one language to another, while interpretation deals with oral or sign language. The speaker highlights that translators focus on written materials, requiring cultural understanding and time for revisions. Interpreters, on the other hand, work in real-time, relying on strong listening and public speaking skills. The lesson outlines seven main distinctions between the two roles and focuses on helping students become proficient translators.

Takeaways

• 😀 Translation involves converting written text from a source language to a target language.
• 🗣️ Interpretation is oral translation, focusing on real-time speech or sign language.
• ✍️ Translators focus on written materials and have time to refine and revise their translations.
• ⏳ Interpreters work in real-time, often without the ability to use external references.
• 📖 Translators must understand the culture behind the source language to accurately convey meaning.
• 🎤 Interpreters need strong listening and public speaking skills to convey messages accurately and clearly.
• 🔄 Translation is typically one-way, while interpretation involves two-way communication and interaction.
• 💡 Translators work with written materials, whereas interpreters handle spoken words or signs.
• 🕰️ Translation allows for more time to ensure accuracy, while interpretation demands instant accuracy in real-time scenarios.
• 🌍 Interpreters often need to maintain the correct tone, inflection, and vocal quality, which adds complexity to their work.

Q & A

What is the main difference between translation and interpretation?

The main difference is that translation involves converting written text from one language to another, while interpretation deals with translating spoken or sign language in real-time.

Why is it important for a translator to understand the culture of the source language?

Understanding the culture is essential because language is deeply connected to culture. Without understanding cultural nuances, it would be difficult to accurately convey meaning in the target language.

What is meant by 'real-time' in interpretation?

Real-time in interpretation means the interpreter translates spoken language or signs immediately, without delay, during a conversation or presentation.

How does the process of translation provide more time compared to interpretation?

In translation, the translator has the luxury of time to review, revise, and edit the text before delivering it, whereas interpreters must translate on the spot without the opportunity for revision.

What skill is essential for an interpreter but not necessarily for a translator?

An interpreter needs excellent public speaking skills to convey information clearly and accurately in real-time. This is not as critical for a translator, whose work is primarily text-based.

What are some challenges an interpreter faces that a translator does not?

An interpreter faces the challenge of working in real-time, without the ability to reference materials or pause for extended thought, and must often handle live exchanges between speakers in both directions.

What is the advantage of having time in translation compared to interpretation?

The advantage in translation is that the translator can take the time to ensure accuracy, refine language choices, and make sure the final product is polished and clear, which is not possible in interpretation.

What is the importance of voice tone and inflection in interpretation?

Voice tone, inflection, and other vocal qualities are important in interpretation because they help convey meaning, emotion, and emphasis in spoken communication, which can significantly impact how the message is received.

What does 'delayed process' mean in the context of translation?

'Delayed process' refers to the fact that translation allows time for revision and refinement, as the text is not produced in real-time, unlike interpretation where responses must be immediate.

Why is it harder for an interpreter to achieve accuracy compared to a translator?

It is harder for an interpreter to achieve accuracy because they must work quickly, translating in real-time without the opportunity to pause, review, or edit their translations as a translator can.