Vocabulary for Describing Translation and Interpreting

Here are some terms related to translation and interpreting:

• Translation – The process of converting text from one language into another language.
• Interpreting – The process of converting speech from one language into another language in real-time, either simultaneously or consecutively.
• Bilingualism – The ability to speak two languages fluently.
• Multilingualism – The ability to speak multiple languages fluently.
• Source Language – The language being translated from.
• Target Language – The language being translated into.
• Literal Translation – A translation that closely follows the words and grammar of the source language, often resulting in a translation that sounds unnatural in the target language.
• Dynamic Equivalence – A translation approach that seeks to convey the meaning and cultural context of the source language in a way that is appropriate and meaningful to the target audience.
• Formal Equivalence – A translation approach that seeks to preserve the form and structure of the source language as closely as possible in the target language.
• Localization – The process of adapting a product or service for use in a specific local market, including the translation of the product’s text, images, and other content.
• Cultural Adaptation – The process of adapting a product or service for use in a specific cultural context, including the translation of cultural references and idioms.
• Interpretation Techniques – The methods used by interpreters to convert speech from one language into another, including simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, and sight translation.
• Interpretation Equipment – The technology used by interpreters, such as soundproof booths, headphones, and microphones, to enable effective interpretation.
• Interpreter Certification – The process of certifying interpreters based on their language skills, experience, and professional conduct.
• Interpretation Ethics – The professional and ethical standards that interpreters must follow, including the principles of impartiality, confidentiality, and accuracy.
• Translation Memory – A database of previously translated text segments, used to speed up and standardize the translation process.
• CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) Tools – Software tools used by translators to assist with the translation process, including translation memory systems, terminology management tools, and machine translation tools.
• Translation Quality Assessment – The process of evaluating the quality of a translation, including its accuracy, fluency, and cultural appropriateness.
• Terminology Management – The process of maintaining a database of specialized terms and their translations, used to ensure consistency and accuracy in translation.
• Machine Translation – The use of computer algorithms to translate text from one language into another, often with the assistance of human translators.
• Post-Editing – The process of reviewing and correcting machine-generated translations to improve their accuracy and fluency.
• Interpretation Modes – The different ways in which interpreters can provide interpretation services, including simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, whisper interpretation, and telephone interpretation.
• Sight Translation – The process of reading and interpreting a written text on the spot, without the assistance of prepared notes or memorization.
• Escort Interpreting – The provision of interpreting services for individuals who are traveling or participating in a meeting or event.
• Consecutive Interpreting – A mode of interpretation in which the interpreter speaks after the speaker has finished a section of their speech.
• Whisper Interpretation – A mode of interpretation in which the interpreter whispers the interpretation into the ear of the listener, rather than speaking aloud.
• Remote Interpreting – The provision of interpreting services via telephone, video conferencing, or other remote communication technologies.