Q. What is the difference between a translator and interpreter / translation and interpretation?
For example, if you have a business contract that needs to be written in another language, you will need a translator; whereas if you are holding a conference with speeches and presentations that need to be presented simultaneously in a second language, you will need an interpreter (and a very good one!). That’s the basic difference.
Additionally, some translators can only work in one direction – from one language (this is called the source language) into another language (the target language) due to fluency in only the target language. Conversely, interpreters typically need to be fluent in both working languages and be able to interpret in both directions e.g. back and forth between people communicating in either language.
There are different modes of interpreting such as simultaneous, consecutive, whispering, etc. Please refer to Services on my website for more info.
Q. How are translation / interpretation project costs estimated?
Translators usually offer translation rates per thousand words. Rates will vary based on the complexity of the source text (and formatting) requiring translation. For example, legal and medical documents requiring more technically knowledge and accuracy are more complex than general marketing materials – the rate would reflect this. For short texts with less than 1,000 words, translators typically have a minimum flat rate for translation.
Interpreters typically have hourly or daily rates for interpretation services. As with translators, the rate will vary according to the type and complexity of the assignment, where interpreting for an international conference on renewable energy would be a lot more demanding than a sightseeing tour. Again, for shorter assignments such as meetings and calls there would typically be a minimum rate. Further factors may also involve travel time and travel expenses.
For advice and an estimate for your upcoming project please submit a quote request with as much detail as possible.
Q. What type of translation / interpreting service do I need for my upcoming project?
For example, you may simply require an interpreter for the day of a meeting – or alternatively you may want the meeting documents translated in advance for your participants. If time is priority, you might also want to consider using simultaneous interpreting rather than consecutive interpreting – to save time without compromising accuracy and quality.
To see more information about the different types of interpreting and translation please visit the Services pages. Alternatively, get in touch with me directly and I will be able to recommend a solution based upon your situation.
Q. Are you available for interpretation / translation immediately? When can you start a project?
For translation work I can be available at relatively short notice or for urgent turnarounds, though an additional charge may apply for an expedited service when a fast turnaround for tight deadlines is required at late notice.
Q. Our project requires assistance slightly different from the services listed on this website, are you able to take on different work?
I would be happy to discuss the requirements of your project and suggest a suitable solution. The best way to reach me is directly by email, or by requesting a quote if you would like to attach additional documentation.
Q. I will be needing an Interpreter / Translator for part of a longer term engagement, are you available for this type of work?
Q. Can you provide a team of Interpreters / Translators to work on a large project?
Q. Are you available to work at locations outside London / the UK?
Small charges for travel days may apply in certain cases. Please get in touch with me to discuss your international project.