Interpretation Reviewed



Note: You would do well to heed my advice about learning vocabulary in context: poor translation is a waste of your time and energy.

Translation focuses on transferring the significance of a given term into another language in order to be more easily understood. All dictionaries and translating software by definition translate. Translation within the same language family and between micro cultures definitely facilitates explanation. When crossing macro cultures and major language families, interpretation takes into account an advanced level of knowledge in both languages and cultures to arrive at not just how to say a particular phrase in another language, but more importantly, how would a native speaker of that language say something in a specific context and situation.

It’s raining cats and dogs.
Ello está lloviendo gatos y perros.
它是下雨猫和狗。
إنها تمطر قطط و كلاب

It’s raining cats and dogs.
Está lloviendo a cántaros.
正在下着倾盆大雨。
إنها تمطر بشدة





Note: Students are encouraged to take notes throughout this section. Although the main idea is to focus on your teacher's voice, take advantage of the opportunity to improve your lexical development skills. Review, reorganize, and study your notes as much as your schedule allows.