Interpreting

/ɪnˈtɜːrprɪtɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The act of explaining the meaning of something or translating spoken language from one language to another in real time.

Etymology

From Latin 'interpretari' meaning 'to explain, expound, understand', derived from 'interpres' (agent, negotiator, interpreter). The word originally implied acting as a go-between or mediator.

Kelly Says

Simultaneous interpreters at the UN can process and translate speech at 150+ words per minute while maintaining accuracy - a cognitive feat that requires splitting attention between listening, processing, and speaking in different languages simultaneously. This skill is so demanding that interpreters work in pairs, switching every 20-30 minutes to prevent mental fatigue.

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