Useful terms

Translation vs. Interpretation

In most South Asian languages, we do not differentiate between the terms ‘translation’ and ‘interpretation’. However, in coordinating language access, it is practical to differentiate between the written and spoken word:

  • Translation is the communication of a message between two or more languages in the written text form. 

  • Interpretation uses the spoken language, including sign language, and is the communication of a spoken message, while maintaining the register between two or more languages.

Both arts require skills in addition to linguistic knowledge. Interpreting requires memory, multi-tasking, speed, public-speaking skills, and spoken fluency. Translating requires knowledge of written genres, and reading and writing skills.

Though the SASI focuses mainly on interpreting, translation is also essential for inclusive multilingual spaces.  Comprehensive written translation entails translation of all documents, materials, flyers, PowerPoint presentations, event programmes, signage etc. in such a way that participants can navigate the space with ease, is very important for fully accessibility for all languages present. However, this is a different skill set than interpretation.

It is valuable to note that translation of material from dominant to non-dominant languages should not be the aim, and this should be balanced out with translation from non-dominant languages to dominant languages as well.


Modes of interpreting

Interpreting can broadly be divided into two modes, simultaneous and consecutive, which can be used in different combinations.  In movement spaces, we adapt our mode of interpreting to the situation.

  •  In simultaneous interpreting, an interpreter works close to the speed of the conversation in the room. The beauty of simultaneous interpreting is that conversations can flow in real time, without any pauses, and people can communicate with each other at the speed of their words and thoughts. This often requires special audio equipment.

  • In consecutive interpreting, the speaker takes breaks every few minutes to allow the interpreter to communicate with the audience in other languages. This kind of interpretation requires note-taking to trigger a sharpened memory, a skill that is acquired during trainings and practice sessions.

Other modalities of interpretation that might be useful in different contexts are:

“Chuchotage” or whispering is a mode of simultaneous without equipment, where the interpretation is whispered to the listener(s) while the speaker is speaking. It is very useful when the majority of the group speaks/understands the same language, and can be a cost-effective solution as it does not require equipment. The interpreter will be in close quarters with the listeners in this mode.

Liaison interpreting facilitates a more intimate interaction between two individuals or small groups, in which a single interpreter provides oral translation in both directions. This is used often in exchanges or decision-making that involve just two parties. In these situations, the interpreter does not have time for comprehensive note-taking.

Relay interpreting is the process that often takes place in a large group of multiple language combinations, where every interpreter cannot know every language. An initial interpreter first interprets into a common intermediary language (pivot), which is used by others to interpret into secondary languages.

For example: At a meeting, interpretation is arranged for Kannada, Gujarati and Punjabi. English functions as the Pivot. When your source language is being spoken, you will interpret into English and provide the pivot for the others. Conversely, you will use the English pivot provided by the corresponding booth to work into your target language.

Typed relay interpretation is a mode of simultaneous interpretation. Instead of speaking into audio equipment or whispering, the interpreter types the conversation simultaneously onto a common document, serving as a pivot. At times, a translated text of a pre-written document can be displayed on a screen as the speaker reads it out in another language. At other times, the interpreter types (or uses voice-to-text applications) to write-up on a projected surface the meaning of the discussion.