At the most basic level, the difference between a translator and an interpreter is simple: one works with the written word while the other deals with spoken language; however, while each is well-versed in both a source and a target language, a good translator does not necessarily make for a good interpreter and vice versa. Vast differences exist among the skill sets, training, and talents required for each job.
The following are key skills for a translator: 1) the capacity to understand the source language and the cultural nuances of the country where the material originated; and 2) the ability to render the text clearly, accurately and naturally into the target language. Though many translators work under the pressure of tight deadlines, time is often not as critical a factor in translation as it is in interpretation. In addition, translators have the advantage of working with reference materials and other resources at hand. While solid linguistic and cultural knowledge are of utmost importance, a translator’s most critical skill is the ability to write well in the target language.
A translator’s linguistic counterpart, an interpreter, must possess the following skills: 1) the ability to render the speaker’s message on the fly, without the aid of dictionaries or other reference materials; 2) excellent listening abilities, particularly for simultaneous interpreting; and 3) exceptional public speaking skills, including the capacity to instantly convert idiomatic expressions, colloquial language and other culture-specific references into analogous statements in the target language. An interpreter must come up with linguistic solutions on the spot; therefore, the pressure of interpreting can be rather intense.
Since a translator generally has time to revise and reconsider the text before delivering it to the client, a high degree of accuracy is expected. In contrast, an interpreter may be held to a different standard of accuracy than a translator. While an interpreter aims for complete accuracy at all times, details of the source speech may be omitted when converted into the target language.
Although translators and interpreters utilize differing approaches for communicating ideas, they both serve as a linguistic bridge that unifies people of varying backgrounds and promotes international understanding.
I have always been amazed at that very special skill that interpreters have. They seem to be able to split their brains in a way that allows them to listen and process in one language on one side and speak coherently in another language on the other side.
As a translator, I love to paw through my dictionaries and mull over this turn of phrase or that, and then go back and polish and edit. I know interpreters, on the other hand, who love the fast pace of the challenge and being able to get in, do the job, and get out… Two very different approaches to turning one language into another!