Any translation is always approximate in nature, because the translated text or speech can never say exactly the same as the original message. This is due to the fact that different cultures have different schemes to describe reality, so words to identify an entity often do not match. However, this does not mean that the other culture cannot even conceive the idea expressed by the term in the original language. The duty of the translator or interpreter, thus, is to convey the idea rather than the exact word. This can be done by paraphrasing or explaining the concept, or by finding different parts of the speech that convey the same message in the target language.
Another problem, especially for interpreters, is how to translate the emotional tone of the speech. Sometimes this can be very hard, especially when the feelings of the interpreter do not match the ones of the speaker.
Moreover, there are some untranslatable genres. An example of text that is usually not translated is the opera, because words are entwined with music to create the perfect acoustic effect.
Keeping in mind that ideas can be conveyed even when words do not exist in a target language is essential for the work of a professional interpreter and translator.
An important skill for interpreters is the ability to understand which phrases can be moved to a different place in the period, without disrupting the meaning of the period itself. This is true, for example, of general adverbial clauses. General adverbial clauses modify the main verb of the sentence and often provide the setting for the events that are described in the rest of the period.
General adverbial clauses can change place in the period without changing its meaning, so the interpreter can take advantage of this particular feature of these clauses, by inserting them wherever there is a pause in the speech long enough to let the interpreter breath and insert the clause. When a speech is very fast, the interpreter can save the general adverbial clause for the end of the period, when the interpreter has more time to deliver it. How to recognize a general adverbial clause in English? A cue may be a structure beginning with “as” or “in”.
The ability to recognize general adverbial clauses can be essential for the perfect delivery of the interpreter’s speech.
Bibliography: James Nolan, Interpretation Techniques and Exercises.
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