The job of an interpreter and a translator though hardly differentiated as they are both linguistic disciplines, has some distinctions nonetheless.
Their skillset, diverse language knowledge, training and methods of discharge are so essential that only a number can function in both offices professionally with success. The primary difference in the two disciplines is the medium of divulging necessary information; the translator interpreting written texts and the interpreter translating orally.
The Skill Requirements of Translators
The translator is considered an expert when he can transcribe accurately in the targeted language. Recognizing the originating language of a text, understanding their cultural values and being capable of exposing it to the target audience succinctly via reference materials and dictionary consultation is an essential skill of the translator to enable you to translate well. This is essential for translators in areas like those providing translation service for Silom(รับแปลเอกสาร สีลม, which is the term in Thai).
The interpreters, on the other hand, are skilled for instantaneous and simultaneous actions(keen listening and translating), having no time to consult dictionaries or search out the origin of texts.
A good interpreter is skilled and proficient in public speaking, is capable of memorizing the words of the source language speaker for a period of 5 to 10 seconds, while concurrently processing the words, transcribing idioms, proverbs, colloquialisms and culturally inclined statements into regular words, yet, giving accurate interpretation for the understanding of the audience.
Qualifications of an Interpreter
A crucial qualifier for an interpreter is the ability to listen keenly, the vastness in the source language culture, and a deep love for diverse languages.
Without understanding and mastery of the source language and cultural systems in operation, an interpreters job becomes difficult and challenging in giving an accurate translation to the audience.
The interpretation put is a rephrasing of the source language speakers words in context, along analogous lines and applying the right cultural tools of the targeted language to convey the speaker’s mind to his/her audience.