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Interpreters
by Elka Jones
a
Defining the profession
L
inguaphiles of the 21st into which they interpret or translate, and
century can choose from an Interpreters and translators convert one their passive language is one of which
language into another. But they do more they have near-perfect knowledge.
expanding selection of
than simply translate words—they relay Although some people do both,
occupations. Among them are concepts and ideas between languages. interpretation and translation are
interpreters of spoken and signed They must thoroughly understand the different professions. Each requires a
language and translators of written subject matters in which they work so distinct set of skills and aptitudes, and
language. These highly skilled they are able to convert information most people are better suited for one or
workers enable the cross-cultural from one language, known as the source the other. While interpreters often work
language, into another, the target into and from both languages, translators
communication necessary in
language. And they must remain generally work only into their active
today’s society. sensitive to the cultures associated with language.
What skills do interpreters and their languages of expertise. Interpreters. Interpreters convert one
translators need? For starters, knowing at spoken language into another—or, in the
least two languages is a prerequisite. But Same goal, different methods case of sign language interpreters,
it takes more than bilingualism to Interpreters and translators are often between spoken communication and
succeed in these occupations. On the discussed together, as they are in this signed language. This requires interpret-
following pages, you’ll learn about the article, because they share some com- ers to pay attention carefully, understand
work of interpreters and translators, mon traits. For example, both need a what is communicated in both languages,
including what they do, where they special ability, known as language and express thoughts and ideas clearly.
work, how much they earn, and how combination. This ability enables them Strong research and analytical skills,
they prepare for these careers. to be fluent in at least two languages: a mental dexterity, and an exceptional
Elka Jones is an economist in the Office of native, or active, language and a second- memory also are important.
Occupational Statistics and Employment ary, or passive, language. Their active The first part of an interpreter’s work
Projections, BLS, (202) 691-5719. language is the one they know best and begins before he or she arrives at the
nd Translators
jobsite. The interpreter must become speaker’s sentence. Because they need a need good editing skills.
familiar with the subject matter the high degree of concentration, simulta- Translators’ assignments may vary in
speakers will cover, a task that may neous interpreters work in pairs, with length, writing style, and subject matter.
involve research to create a list of each interpreting for 20- to 30-minute When they first receive text to convert
common words and phrases associated segments. This type of interpretation is into another language, translators usually
with the topic. Next, the interpreter required at international conferences and read it in its entirety to get an idea of the
usually travels to the location where his is sometimes used in the courts. subject. Next, they identify and look up
or her services are needed. Physical In contrast to simultaneous any unfamiliar words. Translators also
presence may not be required for some interpretation’s immediacy, consecutive might do additional reading on the
work, such as telephone interpretation. interpretation begins only after the subject matter if they are unclear about
But it is usually important that the speaker has verbalized a group of words anything in the text. However, they also
interpreter sees the communicators in or sentences. Consecutive interpreters consult with the text’s originator or
order to hear and observe the person often take notes while listening to the issuing agency to clarify unclear or
speaking and to relay the message to the speakers, so they must develop some unfamiliar ideas, words, or acronyms.
other party. type of note-taking or shorthand system. Translating involves more than
There are two types of interpretation: This form of interpretation is used most replacing a word with its equivalent in
simultaneous and consecutive. Simulta- often for person-to-person communica- another language: sentences and ideas
neous interpretation requires interpreters tion, during which the interpreter sits must be manipulated to flow with the
to listen and speak (or sign) at the same near both parties. same coherence as the source document
time. In simultaneous interpretation, the Translators. Translators convert written so that the translation reads as though it
interpreter begins to convey a sentence materials from one language into originated in the target language. In
being spoken while the speaker is still another. They must have excellent addition, translators also must bear in
talking. Ideally, simultaneous interpreters writing and analytical ability. And mind any cultural references that may
should be so familiar with a subject that because the documents they translate need to be explained to the intended
they are able to anticipate the end of the must be as flawless as possible, they also audience, such as colloquialisms, slang,
“Simultaneous
interpretation requires
interpreters to speak and
listen at the same time.”