The immediate oral rendition of a written text into another language defines a specific form of translation. An interpreter reads a document in a source language and speaks it aloud in a target language, often without the aid of dictionaries or other reference materials. For example, a medical professional might provide an explanation in Spanish to a patient after reading their medical report written in English.
This method serves as a critical tool in various settings, including legal proceedings, medical consultations, and business negotiations. Its real-time nature facilitates communication where written translation is impractical or time-sensitive, bridging linguistic gaps and fostering understanding. Historically, its use has been essential in scenarios requiring rapid information dissemination, such as during international conferences or emergency situations.