Translator vs. interpreter: what’s the difference?

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem, English.me team · 9 November 2024

The short answer

A translator typically works with written text, converting documents from one language to another, while an interpreter works with spoken language in real-time, facilitating verbal communication between people speaking different languages.

What they have in common

Both translators and interpreters are professionals who help facilitate communication between people who speak different languages.

Examples

translator

The translator carefully converted the novel from Japanese to English.
As a professional translator, she specializes in legal documents.
He used a translator app to understand the foreign instructions.

interpreter

The interpreter facilitated the conversation between the French and English delegates.
During the conference, an interpreter assisted the non-English speakers.
She works as a simultaneous interpreter at international events.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for “translator” and “interpreter”

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