A language interpreter is a conduit for 2 or more people who do not speak
the same language. The primary role of the interpreter involves the oral
rendering of meaning from one language into another without changing
content, register or tone
An interpreter:
• Is a language assistant
• Is fluent in two or more languages
• Understands their limitations
• Does not advocate for either party in an interpreting session
• Does not let personal opinions enter into their work
• Maintains a current knowledge of vocabulary and terminology
• Is not a “friend” to the client
• Does not offer counseling nor advice
Interpreting Techniques and Modes Interpreting is conducted according to
established techniques and modes.
Different settings call for different techniques. It is important to use the
appropriate technique for the setting.
There are two main interpreting modes. These are simultaneous and
consecutive.
There are also other modes, such as summarizing, descriptive, etc., but these
are not typical and are used discriminately in select situations.
Simultaneous and consecutive are the primary and standards
modes.
Simultaneous Mode The interpreter begins to interpret the
message while the speaker is still talking. The interpreter keeps a
few words behind the speaker.
Consecutive Mode The interpreter waits for the speaker to pause
and then accurately interpreters what the speaker has said.
Usually allows for a few sentences of information to be spoken
before pausing
Settings and Styles for Interpreting. Interpreting happens in a variety of different settings.
Below is a listing of different settings and styles for interpreting.
1. Conference Interpreting
• Conference setting involves specialized equipment and interpreters skilled in
simultaneous mode
2. Court Interpreting
• Court/legal setting - may involve specialized equipment. In more and more situations,
court interpreting is conducted in simultaneous mode.
3. Diplomatic Interpreting
• Interpreters for this setting are usually citizens of the country for which they interpreting
and must know a range of subjects and work specifically for the diplomat to which they are
assigned
4. Business Interpreting
• Business meeting/conference setting - may involve special equipment.
• Interpreters for this setting may have specialized knowledge and may also act as a
cultural chaperone.
5. Community Interpreting
• Community level - involves social services, education, health care, police or any
service that is community
based
The Primary Description of an Interpreter
The main purpose of interpreting is to facilitate understanding in
communication between people who speak different languages.
Key Purpose
• Facilitate implies the interpreter has an active, rather than a
passive, role.
• Understanding means that the interpreter is clear on the message
in all of its forms.
• Communication means that the interpreter has the ability and
capacity for effective communication
• And speaking is understood
Communication and Interpreting
Interpreting is communication.
Without a good understanding of communication, an interpreter cannot
appreciate the full scope of the work that they do, and the challenges that they
have in interpreting from one language to another – across cultures, values,
and communication styles.
Barriers to Communication in Interpreting
As human beings, our communication styles are a part of who we are, where we come, what
are values are, where we fit on the socio-economic ladder, in addition to so many other
variables.
Below is a list of potential barriers that face everyone, but might have additional significance
for community interpreters:
• Linguistic Barriers
• Socio-Economic Barriers
• Cultural Barriers
• Systemic Barrier
