How is a translator different from an interpreter?
Although they both deal with bridging the communication gap between two languages, there is a difference between what a translator does and what an interpreter does. Simply put, a translator works with the written word, and an interpreter works with the spoken word. Translators work with pre-existing materials such as legal documents, scientific and medical reports, literary works, and other written texts. They usually work in an office setting with a computer and a library of subject-specific reference materials. The translator’s end-product is tangible. A written translation is delivered to the client, either on paper or in electronic form. An interpreter works before a live audience, most often in courtrooms, hospitals, at conferences and meetings, and on the telephone. They may use microphones, headphones, and other sound equipment. The interpreter’s end-product is intangible. There might be an audio recording or a written transcript, but this is generally done by someone else.
