Interpretation and translation are the two main services when it comes to language services. Whereas both require the translator/interpreter to have excellent language skills each profession requires their own set of sub-skills. The main difference is that translators work with written text and interpreters with spoken words.

1. Translations aren’t immediate

A translator has time to research vocabulary, technical background and reference materials of the document they are translating. They have a variety of dictionaries and materials available they can consult to get the translation perfectly right. Also, a translator has time to review their translation and if necessary, revise and correct it. Accordingly, translations demand greater accuracy.

An interpreter needs to translate on the spot and has only very little time to think. Instead of thorough research on the spot translation is required, which also includes dealing with idioms and nuanced language. Nevertheless, that does not mean an interpreter does no research. They must familiarize themselves with the field of a job beforehand and research important vocabulary and terms that could come up.

2. Translators and interpreters use different tools

Translators will mostly work with dictionaries and reference material whether it be digital or analogue. For translators, there also is a wide variety of translation assistance tools that can speed up the translation process.

An interpreter hardly has time to look at dictionaries when interpreting. They are expected to memorize important keywords beforehand. An interpreter doesn’t necessarily need special tools for interpreting. A pen and paper or other means for taking notes can be enough.

3. Interpreters interact directly with their clients

A translator usually works in an office or from home and is mostly focused on the text to translate. Sometimes they might contact clients directly or visit events for networking but most of the time a translator is working on their own. As an interpreter you directly work with your clients, therefore, soft skills are an important part of the job. When interpreters register with transeuro they need to pass an examination where we also check their soft skills.

4. A translator might not speak their second language fluently

A translator only works with written text; therefore, they are not required to speak a second language fluently. A lot of the translators at transeuro are remarkably good in writing foreign languages but have difficulties when it comes to talking. As an interpreter you usually interpret two ways, therefore, it is required to be fluent in two languages.

5. Interpretation services should be ordered ahead of time

Ordering a translation is quite simple and straightforward. You send the document to be translated, receive a quotation and if you agree the translator will start working on the translation. This process can be dealt with in less than an hour.

Requesting interpretation involves different cost factors and shouldn’t be done last minute. Good interpreters have a busy schedule, so it is important to reserve well in advance. Also, the interpreter needs some time to prepare for the job. Depending on the job transportation and accommodation needs to be arranged and paid for as well. We recommend contacting us early if you are looking for interpretation services.

At transeuro, we take both services seriously and make sure our clients receive a translation/interpretation they are satisfied with. If you have need for interpretation or translation in Japanese, English or German we would be glad to assist you.

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