Language is an important aspect of our everyday lives. Currently, there are more than 7,000 languages in the world and over 1000 new words are presumably created every year. The Oxford English Dictionary has reported an update entailing the addition of more than 1,400 new English words in the past month. Evidently, the evolution of languages has seen a significant shift in the global scene. With the rise of globalization, language services have become crucial now more than ever. Over the last decade, the global language services industry has seen tremendous growth and its market size is predicted to rise to more than fifty billion U.S dollars by 2021. The popularity and demand for language services is influenced by the increasing need for brands to communicate with their unique clients. Moreover, language diversity has propelled businesses to pursue different strategies that allow them to accommodate a multilingual market.

Market size of the global language services industry from 2009 to 2021 (in billion U.S Dollars) via statista.com

Translation and Interpretation at a glance

Translation and interpretation are arguably two of the most sought-after language services. The two crafts have been in existence for centuries following various historical timelines and eras. In the past, long-distance traders, explorers, Christian missionaries, and, notable political and social leaders over history have been known to use translators and interpreters to aid communication. Translation and interpretation share a few similarities and are often used interchangeably. Both translators and interpreters require professional qualifications and work with relaying information from one language to another. To better understand and cater to your needs as an individual, brand, or business, it is key to observe that each serves a unique purpose.

 Key differences between translation and interpretation

System / Method: Simply put, translation involves text whereas interpretation involves speech. Translators often work on writing projects involving websites and software, video subtitles, print material, etc. . Interpreters, on the other hand, deliver messages in real-time (on the spot) at conferences, concerts, legal proceedings, etc..

Direction: Translation takes place in one direction – a translator is required to work into their local language. For instance, a French native will translate material from English to French; he/she does not necessarily have to possess mastery in English since they work into their local language. Interpretation, however, demands fluency in both the source language and the target language. In this case, a French native will relay messages from French to English, and, from English to French. 

Expertise: Interpretation does not just demand one to possess exceptional communication skills. It also requires good memory, flexibility, cultural awareness, professionalism, public speaking, and the ability to work under pressure. An interpreter often works his or her way through idiomatic expression, jokes, slang, accents, and industry–specific vocabulary to deliver a message(s) to the target audience while still maintaining its original meaning or content. Similarly, translation requires industry professionals to command a precise skillset. Translation calls for attention to detail, swiftness, proofreading, adaptability, proficient writing skills, specialization, and reliable computer skills. 

Resources: The translation process entails the use of resources such as dictionaries, computer-aided tools (CAT), and other reference material to achieve accuracy. Interpretation is a different ball game because the different styles of interpretation will determine the type of equipment to be used.

Knowledge base: Translators have to establish most of their study on the basis of understanding the cultural practices of their target audience. This enables them to achieve accurate translation that maintains cultural sensitivity while avoiding the implications of unintended meaning. Interpreters, however, center their knowledge on the mastery of various terminologies in their languages of specialization. Identifying the main differences between translation and interpretation helps you to explore the available options for your upcoming project and achieve a clear comprehension of the language service that will be the best fit for you. It will also save you money and time because you’ll be able to have more defined goals and reach out to the right team of experts that will bridge the communication gap between you and your clients.