BEI Language Comprehension & Expression 2

Question 1

A BEI interpreter hears a witness say 'I seen him leave.' How should this be rendered?

Accepted Answer

Render it exactly as 'I seen him leave'

Answer

Interpreters must render the speaker's exact register and grammar, including non-standard usage, to preserve credibility assessments.

Question 2

Which term describes the ability to switch fluently between two languages depending on context?

Accepted Answer

Code-switching

Answer

Code-switching is the practice of alternating between two languages within a conversation or utterance.

Question 3

A deponent uses highly technical medical jargon. The interpreter does not know a specific term. What is the best immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Request clarification by stating 'The interpreter is not familiar with that term'

Answer

Interpreters must alert the court when they encounter unknown terminology rather than guess or omit.

Question 4

What does 'source language' refer to in interpretation?

Accepted Answer

The language from which a message originates

Answer

The source language is the language in which the original message is delivered before interpretation.

Question 5

When an interpreter renders a speech with more words than the original without adding meaning, this is called:

Accepted Answer

Expansion

Answer

Expansion occurs when an interpreter uses more words than necessary, often to clarify, but may distort the original register.

(BEI) Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Practice Test