Just as writing and speaking are not the same, translating and interpreting are not synonymous. The two shouldn’t be used interchangeably. Each discipline is used to fulfill different needs on various occasions. We will explore these differences here.

Let’s start with the basics, translating is the process of taking a written document in a source language and converting the same text to the intended language (aka target language). Translating is always executed in written form. Interpreting, on the other hand, is expressing the original message in the target language orally. There are various modes of interpretation, most of them performed in real time. The message can be conveyed in chunks (what we call consecutive interpretation), simultaneously, or by having the interpreter read a document in the original language and then interpreting it in the target language.

A translation endures over time, whereas interpreting is fleeting (provided it’s not being recorded). Translations are usually required for legal documents, instruction manuals, business plans, academic records, or any other written documents. The skilled translator will make sure that the language, formatting, and content is rendered exactly the same as the original document, but using the target language.

Interpreting is recommended for conferences, work meetings, guided tours, and other international events. The interpreter has to be quick with words and not only convey the message in its entirety, but also reiterate the tone and register (language use) of the original speaker. Sometimes, the interpreter has to be quick to turn a phrase or even paraphrase if there is no equivalent in the target language, but the meaning must remain intact.

Translators must have excellent research skills and must be familiar with the technical jargon of the subject at hand, improvising is not an option. Translation leaves no room for error, especially when a legal or academic document is involved. At Dialectica we have skilled interpreters and translators, ready to help with any of your needs.