What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
translation
Example
I need a translation of this document from English to Spanish. [translation: noun]
Example
She translated the article from French to English. [translated: past tense verb]
interpretation
Example
The interpreter translated the speaker's words from Spanish to English. [interpreter: noun]
Example
He interpreted the meaning of the poem for the audience. [interpreted: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Translation is more commonly used than interpretation in everyday language. Translation is necessary for various purposes, such as business, education, and literature. Interpretation is more commonly used in situations where real-time communication is needed, such as conferences, meetings, and interviews.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between translation and interpretation?
Translation and interpretation can both be used in formal and informal contexts. However, translation is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, while interpretation is typically associated with a formal tone due to its use in professional settings.
