The difference between translation and interpreting
If you’re new to language solutions, you may be wondering what translation and interpreting is and what’s the difference. We look at what each of them are, and why they provide a different service depending on your needs.
What is the difference between translation and interpreting?
When it comes to navigating global markets and multicultural audiences, precise and accurate language solutions are essential. NRL regularly provides responsive translation and interpreting services in over 135 languages, ensuring that all communication barriers are effectively overcome. But what exactly sets translation apart from interpreting, and how can each be utilised to support your business needs?
Deciphering translation
Translation pertains to the process of converting written content from one language to another. It’s an essential tool for global communication, involving a deep understanding of both the source and target languages.
Translation isn’t just a direct linguistic conversion; it requires the translator to interpret context, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances to ensure the message is accurately transferred to the target language.
Our team here at NRL, for example, support clients with a range of comprehensive translation services for a diverse range of documents and materials, such as:
- Legal contracts
- Technical documents and manuals
- Marketing brochures
- Educational and training material
- Websites and digital content
Every written word is important, and our team of expert translators are trained to craft translations that retain the original message whilst ensuring text in the new target language is culturally appropriate.
The role of interpreting
Interpreting, unlike translation, is the oral conveyance of language from one speaker to another. NRL’s interpreters are adept at facilitating real-time communication, assisting people to help them understand conversations in their own languages and ensuring effective and productive two-way communication.
Ways to access interpreting services
- In-person interpreting: Ideal for situations where a personal touch is crucial, like in negotiations, conferences, business events, medical consultations, court cases and government meetings.
- Remote interpreting: Provides flexibility to support various scenarios, such as virtual meetings, webinars, online conferences, and emergency response situations.
When do you need interpreting or translation?
The services of an interpreter are essential when there is a need for real-time communication, where meaning must be conveyed immediately and accurately.
Translation services, on the other hand, are invaluable when dealing with written mediums that must be tailored for a new linguistic audience while ensuring their original intent, style, and legislative compliance are replicated in the output.
Choosing a trusted language solutions provider
A reputable language solutions provider is the linchpin to overcoming the challenges of cross-cultural communication. Businesses should partner with providers that not only have a wealth of experience but also hold reputable accreditations that provide reassurance that language projects will be delivered to the highest accuracy.
NRL’s long-standing corporate membership of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting exemplifies our commitment to industry standards and professional excellence. We undertake rigorous checks on all translators and interpreters before we work with them and closely monitor client feedback to ensure the quality of the work we produce.
When choosing a new provider, consider the breadth of language offerings, the company’s reputation for quality, and their demonstrated experience for linguistics in your industry sector.
Need support with translation or interpreting?
Our team are always on hand if you need support with an important document or a crucial meeting.
You can request a quote for translation support here, or submit an interpreting booking form here.