Interpreting Skills Flashcards

The interpreter converts speech in one language into speech in another language.

Answer: True

Explanation: An interpreter converts speech in one language into speech in another language. Interpreters are skilled professionals who listen to a speaker in one language and then convey the message in another language orally. They play a crucial role in facilitating communication between individuals who speak different languages, whether it be in business meetings, conferences, or other settings. Interpreters need to have excellent language skills, cultural knowledge, and the ability to think quickly and accurately in order to convey the speaker's message effectively.

An interpreter should remain neutral.

Answer: True

Explanation: An interpreter should remain neutral because their role is to facilitate communication between parties who speak different languages or have different cultural backgrounds. By remaining neutral, the interpreter ensures that they do not influence or bias the conversation in any way. Their main objective is to accurately convey the message from one party to another without adding their own opinions or personal beliefs. This allows for effective and unbiased communication between the parties involved.

Typically, bilingual speakers speak both their languages equally well.

Answer: False

Explanation: Bilingual speakers do not necessarily speak both their languages equally well. Proficiency in each language can vary depending on factors such as exposure, use, and education. Some bilingual speakers may be more fluent in one language than the other, while others may have a balanced proficiency in both languages. Therefore, it is not accurate to assume that bilingual speakers always speak both their languages equally well.

The interpreter is your voice and your ears.

Answer: True

Explanation: The interpreter is responsible for both speaking and listening, which is represented by "your voice and your ears". This implies that the interpreter not only translates spoken words but also actively engages in communication by speaking and listening to facilitate understanding between different parties.

In consecutive interpreting, the interpreter interprets while the speaker is still talking.

Answer: False

Explanation: In consecutive interpreting, the speaker pauses and waits for the interpreter to interpret. This is because consecutive interpreting involves the speaker delivering a segment of speech, then pausing to allow the interpreter to convey the message in the target language. The interpreter then relays the interpretation to the audience. This method allows for a more accurate and coherent interpretation as it gives the interpreter time to fully understand and convey the message.

When communicating via an interpreter, speak directly to your interpreter.

Answer: True

Explanation: When communicating via an interpreter, it is important to speak directly to the interpreter because they are the ones who will be conveying your message to the other person. By speaking directly to the interpreter, you ensure that your message is accurately and effectively communicated. Speaking directly to the interpreter also allows for clarification or further explanation if needed, ensuring that there is no miscommunication or misunderstanding.

Bilingual speakers may not know specialized vocabulary in one or both languages.

Answer: True

Explanation: Bilingual speakers may not know specialized vocabulary in one or both languages because they may have learned the languages in different contexts or may not have had exposure to certain topics or fields in either language. This can result in a limited knowledge of technical or specific terms in either language.

It's best to position the interpreter wherever you want.

Answer: False

Explanation: The best position to have your interpreter is next to you. This allows for clear communication and easy exchange of information between you and the interpreter. Being next to you also ensures that the interpreter can easily hear and see any non-verbal cues or gestures that may be important for accurate interpretation. Additionally, having the interpreter next to you enables a smoother flow of conversation and minimizes any potential confusion or miscommunication that may arise if the interpreter is positioned elsewhere.

The titles "interpreter" and "translator" really mean the same.

Answer: False

Explanation: The titles "interpreter" and "translator" do not mean the same thing. While both involve the conversion of one language to another, an interpreter works with spoken language in real time, while a translator works with written text. Interpreters must have excellent listening and speaking skills, as they need to convey messages accurately and quickly, while translators focus on written accuracy and cultural nuances.

An interpreter who has a broad knowledge of criminal law may give legal advice because he/she is an officer of the court.

Answer: False

Explanation: Interpreters, regardless of their knowledge of the subject matter, should never provide legal advice. Their role is strictly to interpret and facilitate communication between parties. Providing legal advice could lead to serious consequences, as interpreters are not licensed legal professionals and should refrain from offering legal opinions or guidance.

Interpreters should always strive for word-for-word accuracy when interpreting between languages.

Answer: False

Explanation: While it might seem logical to aim for word-for-word accuracy in interpretation, it's not always the most effective approach. Interpreters need to convey the meaning and intent of the speaker accurately rather than focusing solely on individual words. This means they may need to paraphrase or adjust the wording to ensure that the message is clear and culturally appropriate for the target audience. Striving for meaning-based accuracy rather than word-for-word translation is a fundamental principle of professional interpreting.