CHI key terms

A mode in which the interpreter speaks after the speaker pauses, relying on notes and memory to render the full message in the target language. It is common in interviews, exams, and settings without equipment.

Rendering speech into the target language in real time while the speaker continues talking, with only a brief lag. It requires divided attention and is used in longer or multi-person healthcare encounters.

Reading a written text in one language and speaking it aloud in another language on the spot, without prior preparation. It is used for forms, instructions, and consent documents during an encounter.

A hybrid task in which the interpreter reads a document silently and then renders it orally in the target language, often with brief preparation time. It differs from sight translation mainly by the amount of advance review allowed.

A structured system of symbols, abbreviations, and layout used to capture the meaning and structure of a message during consecutive interpreting. Notes support memory rather than replace it.

The interpreter's decision about where to break a speaker's utterance into manageable chunks for consecutive rendering. Good segmentation preserves complete ideas and avoids distorting meaning.

The delay between hearing a speaker's words and delivering them in the target language during simultaneous interpreting. Managing lag keeps the interpretation accurate without falling too far behind.

Whispered simultaneous interpreting delivered quietly to one or two listeners without equipment. It is used in small settings such as a bedside exam or a brief consultation.

The mental capacity to hold and manipulate information briefly while performing a task. Interpreters rely on it heavily to retain meaning across languages during both consecutive and simultaneous work.

The interpreter's ability to recall the content, tone, and intent of a message after hearing it. Techniques such as visualization and chunking strengthen retention without relying on verbatim recall.

The level of formality and specialized vocabulary a speaker uses, ranging from casual to technical. Interpreters must match register so the message sounds natural to the listener.

The goal of producing a target message that has the same impact and meaning on the listener as the source had on its audience. It prioritizes meaning and intent over word-for-word matching.

A translation approach that conveys the meaning and function of the source in natural target-language phrasing rather than literal structure. It contrasts with formal, word-for-word correspondence.

Rendering text word for word or structure for structure with little adjustment for target-language norms. It often produces awkward or misleading output and is generally avoided unless precision requires it.

The specialized vocabulary of a field, including preferred equivalents for concepts such as symptoms, procedures, and medications. Consistent terminology supports accuracy and patient safety.

A prepared list of terms with their approved translations, often built for a specific assignment or specialty. Interpreters and translators use glossaries to keep terminology consistent across a document or encounter.

A set of written rules governing formatting, capitalization, punctuation, and terminology for translated documents. Following one ensures consistency, especially across multi-part or recurring materials.

A word that looks or sounds similar in two languages but has a different meaning, such as a term that misleads if translated literally. Recognizing these prevents serious errors.

Translating a finished target text back into the source language to check accuracy. It is a quality-assurance step used in document translation, not a substitute for review by a qualified editor.

Checking a translated document for errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting before delivery. It is distinct from substantive review of meaning and terminology.

The planned checks and reviews a translator or interpreter applies to confirm accuracy, completeness, and readability. It may include terminology review, editing, and comparison against the source.

Preserving the layout, headings, tables, and visual structure of a source document in the translated version. It affects usability, especially for forms and patient instructions.

Replicating the visual arrangement of a source document, such as columns, boxes, and checklists, in the target version. It helps readers locate information in the same place as the original.

A patient's voluntary agreement to a procedure or treatment after receiving and understanding information about risks, benefits, and alternatives. Interpreters must convey this information completely and neutrally.

A person who helps bridge cultural differences in understanding, beliefs, and expectations between patient and provider. The interpreter may flag cultural issues but should not substitute personal opinion for the patient's voice.

Action taken by an interpreter to address a barrier that threatens patient safety or understanding, such as a missing service or a communication breakdown. It is limited and disclosed, not a shift into the provider role.

The limits that keep an interpreter neutral and focused on communication rather than advising, treating, or making decisions. Clear boundaries protect accuracy and the patient's autonomy.

Speaking as though the interpreter were the patient or provider, using "I" and preserving the speaker's voice. This convention keeps the exchange direct and avoids third-person summaries.

Rendering a speaker's words in the first person without adding framing such as "she says." It maintains the original tone and keeps the interpreter transparent.

Reporting a speaker's words using phrases like "he said that," which distances the listener from the message. It is generally discouraged because it can alter tone and add interpretation.

A request for the speaker to repeat, rephrase, or explain something the interpreter did not fully understand. Asking for it protects accuracy and is preferable to guessing.

The degree to which the interpreted message conveys the full meaning, tone, and intent of the source without additions or omissions. It is a core standard of accurate interpreting.

The interpreter's practice of making their actions and any communication problems visible to both parties. It includes disclosing when clarification, advocacy, or a brief pause is needed.

A professional set of principles guiding conduct, such as confidentiality, accuracy, impartiality, and professional boundaries. Interpreters follow it to protect patients and the integrity of the encounter.

The duty to keep patient information private and not disclose it outside the interpreting assignment. It applies to all encounters and continues after the assignment ends.

The interpreter's obligation to remain neutral and avoid favoritism, personal opinion, or conflict of interest. It supports trust and accurate communication between all parties.

Dosages, times, dates, and measurements that must be rendered exactly and in the correct unit system. Errors here are high-risk, so interpreters repeat and confirm them when needed.

Shortened forms such as lab names, medication schedules, or organizational titles that often appear in healthcare documents. Translators expand or adapt them so the target reader understands them.