Translation and Interpretation Definitions (Translator, Interpreter …)
A translator is a person who takes written text in one language and converts it into
written text with the same meaning in another language.
An interpreter is a person who listens to a spoken message in one language and converts
it into a spoken message with the same meaning in another language.
To translate, a verb, is the action of taking written text in one language and converting it
into written text with the same meaning in another language.
To interpret, a verb, is the action of listening to a spoken message in one language and
converting it into a spoken message with the same meaning in another language.
Of course, there are multiple forms of these verbs:
He was asked to translate the document. She was asked to interpret the
conversation.
She is translating a book. He is interpreting the speech.
He translated the web site. She interpreted a group discussion.
Translation, a noun, is the process of taking written text in one language and converting
it into written text with the same meaning in another language.
Translation can also refer to the end result of this process.
Translating can also be used as a noun meaning the same as translation.
Interpretation, a noun, is the process of listening to a spoken message in one language
and converting it into a spoken message with the same meaning in another language.
Interpretation can also refer to the end result of this process.
Interpreting can also be used as a noun meaning the same as interpretation.
Here are some examples:
The translation is in progress. The interpretation will be done by professionals.
This translation is excellent. The interpretation of the presentation was done very
well.
Translating requires good writing skills. Interpreting requires good speaking
skills.