Difference Between Translator and Interpreter with Proper Definition and Brief Explanation

Main Difference – Translator vs Interpreter

Translation is the conversion of material from one language to another without distorting its original meaning and value. There are two basic forms of translation: translation of written material and translation of spoken words. Translator and interpreter are two jobs that participate in these two forms of translation. Translators convert written material from one language to another, while interpreters convert spoken material from one language to another . This is the main difference between translator and interpreter.

Who is a translator                      Difference Between Translator and Interpreter

The profession of translating involves converting written material from one language to another. In the field of translation, the language of the original document is known as the source language and the language to which it must be translated is known as the target language. Therefore, a translator translates a text from the source language into the target language. A translation is believed to be more successful if the target language is the native language of the translator.

Translators work in a variety of fields and translate various types of documents, including business, legal, scientific, technical, and literary documents. The key skills of a translator include the ability to understand the source language, the ability to write well and clearly in the target language. A translator can use dictionaries, thesauri, and other reference material to produce a successful translation.

Who is an interpreter

Interpretation is the translation of the spoken words. An interpreter is a person who converts spoken material from one language to another. An interpreter must be equally skilled in both the source and target languages, as they have to translate in both directions spontaneously. Interpreters are mainly used in conferences and meetings.

There are two types of interpreting: Consecutive interpreting and Simultaneous interpreting. In consecutive interpreting , the speaker often pauses between sentences or ideas and gives the interpreter time to translate his message little by little. In simultaneous interpretation , the translator and the original speaker speak at the same time. Time is an essential factor in these two types. To deliver the original message with fidelity and precision, an interpreter must have a good knowledge of both languages. You must also have a good memory and the ability to think on your feet. One of the main differences between translation and interpretation is that the interpreter cannot use any dictionary or reference material to better understand the source language.

Difference between translator and interpreter

Paper

Translators convert written material from one language to another language.

Interpreters convert spoken material from one language to another language.

Hour

Translators Have considerable time to translate a text.

Interpreters Have a very limited time to convert a text to another language.

Making reference

Translators You can use dictionaries, thesauri, and other reference materials.

Interpreters may not use dictionaries, thesauri, or other reference materials.

Two languages

Translators You may not need to translate into both languages.

Interpreters must be able to translate into both languages.

Abilities

Translators use the skills of reading and writing one after the other.

Interpreters use the skills of listening and speaking at the same time.