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Frequently Asked Questions |
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What is the difference between interpretation and translation?
Interpretation involves oral speech and translation involves with written text. Interpreters express meaning orally from one language to another, while translators express meaning from one language to another in written form. The term translation is used loosely to refer to either interpretation or translation. Since the skills are different, they are not interchangeable. Interpreters and translators both work with language, but their training and work experience may vary greatly. top... |
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Is there a statutory or constitutional right to an interpreter?
See 28 USC 1827, which pertains to all federal criminal cases or for any civil case in which the government is a party. Many states as well have statutes governing the use of interpreters. top... |
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What’s the difference between consecutive and simultaneous interpreting?
Consecutive interpreting, the more popular of the two, where one person speaks and then pauses; one or many people listen whilst the consecutive interpreter repeats what has been said in the target language.
Simultaneous interpreters provide high end interpreting services for international conferences. One person speaks and many listen through headphones. Simultaneous interpreters sit in a sound-proof booth and interpret in real-time. top...
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Do those automated on line translation programs you see on the web work?
No, those programs are not accurate to say the least. They give you a translated document that has Spanish words, but it does not make sense. Basically, the program picks from lists of words programmed into them, randomly picking out a word that might have been intended. Accurate translation is not that easy. People are generally not able to read and understand the results of an automated translation program. top... |
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Why can't just anyone translate my documents?
It takes specialized skill to translate. Because both the English language and the Spanish language are filled with rich and dynamic words and phrases. It takes skill to understand the writer’s intent and then translate that same equal intent from Spanish to English or English to Spanish. There are indeed lots of people who can do a simple exchange of Spanish and English words, as could a computer program, but only a skilled translator can translate the correct tone and intent in a grammatically correct way. top... |
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How do you control the quality of your interpreters?
All of our interpreters are carefully assessed for language skills their working languages, interpretation skills, terminology and concepts, and demonstrated understanding of the ethics and practices of interpreting. In addition, we follow up with a detailed evaluation survey after each assignment is completed to assure complete customer satisfaction, and interpreter quality.top... |
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Will your translation company sign a Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement?
Yes, we will. Confidentiality is essential to our clients. Our corporate translation company is open to signing a Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement of your choice before examining your English or foreign language documents. top... |
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Are your interpreters certified?
Some are. Certified interpreters are required for a small, very specialized set of appointments (usually legal in nature). Our interpreters are qualified to perform a wide variety of appointments.
What makes Interpreters Unlimited different from the hundreds of other services I’ve found?
We offer experience few others can match. We have been in business over 30 years, serving a wide variety of clients. top... |
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What if I need an interpreter right NOW?
We can obtain the services of a telephone interpreter for emergency situations. For those appointments that require an interpreter in person, we ask that you call and schedule the request with our staff. top... |
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Can I get a report from the interpreter as to what happened at the appointment?
Our interpreters just interpret-they are the “third voice” in the room that repeat what one person is saying exactly into a different language. For privacy reasons, interpreters are not allowed to keep records of what transpired at appointments. top... |
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How do you address privacy concerns and sensitive issues?
Your confidentiality is guaranteed. For medical appointments, we follow the requirements under the Health Insurance Portability and Protection Act (HIPPA). top... |
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What if I can’t speak the person’s language and need to make an appointment?
Our interpreters can certainly assist you with this. Call and speak to our staff, and we will walk you through the process. top... |
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