What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interpreter
Example
The interpreter helped the tourists communicate with the locals. [interpreter: noun]
Example
She is interpreting the conversation between the two businessmen. [interpreting: present participle]
translator
Example
The translator worked on translating the novel into Spanish. [translator: noun]
Example
He is translating the document from French to English. [translating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Translator is more commonly used than interpreter in everyday language. Translator is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while interpreter is less common and refers to specific situations where real-time language interpretation is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interpreter and translator?
Both interpreter and translator can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and the level of formality required.
