Translation vs interpretation

Both translation and interpretation involve expressing something in another language. While translation and interpretation share similarities, there are also differences too.

For both, it is necessary to be able to take something expressed in one language and accurately express it in another language. Therefore, the baseline for both is to be proficient in the source and target languages. Yet being proficient in both the source and target languages does not mean a person can be able to translate or interpret properly.

In translation, the meaning of the source text has to be expressed fully with words. The right choice of words is therefore key to ensure an accurate translation. It is necessary to choose the most appropriate word from many synonyms. Luckily, translation work usually involves more time flexibility when compared to interpretation. Time can therefore be taken to choose the right words.

In interpretation, it is necessary to express meanings in the target language in real-time (or close to that). Compared to translation, this means there is almost no time to spend pondering on the choice of words. Given the limited time, words are chosen as long as they somehow fit the meaning, even if it is a rough fit. However, the interpreter has other tools that can be used, such as voice tone and sometimes even facial expressions and body language. The key is thus how to use these other tools to complement the rough choice of words to accurately convey the original meaning.

Given these circumstances, what are the qualities needed in a translator and an interpreter?

A translator is required to be able to research and learn (understand) within a limited period of time. This is because a translator will need to research on a topic and understand it while doing translation work so as to be able to accurately translate the source text into the target language.

Meanwhile, an interpreter must be able to learn beforehand. Before going into the actual interpretation session, the interpreter will need to prepare by researching the topic being discussed to learn special terminology and concepts. Only with an understanding of the topic, acquired through prior learning, will the interpreter be able to choose the right words within a limited period of time. This is then complemented by the interpreter's ability to use other tools (tone, facial expressions, etc.).

So while translation and interpretation may look similar, I hope this helps you understand there is more than language skills involved in these similar but also different tasks.