Category Archives: Best practices

Breaking the AI Myth: Why Human Translators Will Always Be Essential

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This article will take a deep dive into the misconception that AI will replace human translators. It will provide data and insights into why AI can never fully replace the nuanced understanding and cultural knowledge that only humans bring to translation.

Breaking the AI Myth: Why Human Translators Will Always Be Essential

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to a widespread belief that human translators are on their way out, destined to be replaced by intelligent algorithms. But is this really the case? 

In this article, we’re going to debunk this myth, explaining why human translators are still and always will be essential. We’ll explore the nuances of translation that require a human touch. You’ll also see how AI is enhancing the role of professional linguists instead of replacing them.

The rise of AI in translation

AI translation technology has advanced from simple rule-based systems to sophisticated Neural Machine Translation (NMT), making translation faster and more accessible. Tools like Google Translate and DeepL offer quick, often accurate translations across many languages.

Despite these improvements, AI still falls short in understanding context, cultural nuance, and emotion. As Rachelle, Head of AI at Tomedes, says, “AI has transformed translation but can’t replace the cultural and contextual insights humans bring.” Human translators remain essential for adding the depth that AI alone cannot achieve.

AI and human translators’ collaboration can enhance the quality

Many think AI and human translators are in competition, but the best results happen when they work together. Picture AI as the rhythm in an orchestra, setting the basics, while human translators are the soloists, adding depth and nuance.

In translation, AI can handle repetitive tasks like drafting translations or processing large volumes of text, freeing human translators to focus on creativity, context, and emotional tone. For instance, AI might translate a technical manual, while a human ensures that safety warnings are adapted to each culture’s urgency and seriousness.

This partnership boosts efficiency for freelancers and in-house teams. It lets translators concentrate on making language vibrant and meaningful.

The Case for Free AI Tools in Translation

Free AI tools are transforming the translation industry by providing advanced technology at no cost, enabling smaller players to compete with larger Language Service Providers (LSPs).

Benefits of Free AI Tools:

  • Cost Savings: Freelancers and small businesses can reduce expenses by using free tools like MachineTranslation.com, allowing them to be more productive without the high costs of traditional software.
  • Accessibility: These tools provide small players with the same technology as large LSPs, enabling them to deliver high-quality translations and compete effectively.
  • Efficiency: Free AI tools automate repetitive tasks, letting translators focus on complex aspects of translation, increasing both productivity and quality.
  • Scalability: Small businesses can easily expand their capacity, using AI for first drafts and humans for refinement, managing higher demand without compromising quality.
  • Inclusivity: Free AI tools remove financial barriers, making advanced technology accessible to all and fostering a more inclusive industry.

How Tomedes is leading the way in free AI translation tools

Tomedes is setting a new standard with free AI-powered translation tools that boost efficiency without financial strain. Tools like MachineTranslation.com and AITranslator.com streamline repetitive tasks, letting translators focus on high-quality refinement. Freelancers and small translation companies now have the tech to compete with large Language Service Providers (LSPs), efficiently handling high-volume projects and serving global clients.

Our free AI translation tools empower freelancers and small companies to produce initial drafts quickly, especially for large projects like website translations, while human review ensures cultural accuracy and quality. However, while AI is valuable for routine tasks, human oversight remains essential for specialized or nuanced content. Translators should use AI tools as aids, not replacements, especially for complex projects that demand cultural and emotional precision.

As AI technology evolves, free tools will offer even more sophisticated support. By balancing AI’s speed with human expertise, translators can deliver accurate and resonant work, ensuring the best outcomes for clients and pushing industry standards forward.

How AI improves translation efficiency and reduces operational bottlenecks

Translation projects often face bottlenecks, especially in high-volume, multilingual tasks. Here, AI can greatly improve efficiency. By automating initial drafts, AI reduces timelines from days to minutes, giving translators more time to refine accuracy. Project managers can quickly assign drafts, speeding up workflow and ensuring consistency.

Corporate localization teams also rely on AI for efficiency, especially when translating large volumes like product descriptions across many languages. AI handles the initial translation, allowing human translators to refine it for cultural fit and brand tone. This blend of AI speed and human skill results in faster, more accurate, and cost-effective translations that meet deadlines without compromising quality.

The unmatched value of human cultural insight and emotional understanding

Human translators stand out for their cultural insight and ability to convey emotion. Language reflects culture and history, and while machines can translate words, they often miss the emotional depth. For example, “It’s raining cats and dogs” means heavy rain, something a human understands while AI might misinterpret without context.

Human translators excel at capturing the right tone and adapting content for cultural relevance. In business emails or customer support, they ensure the tone is suitable—professional yet empathetic. In literature, translators bring creativity to make the work resonate, capturing nuances that AI cannot. For ads, human translators adjust humor and references to fit regional norms, ensuring messages land appropriately without offending.

Why human oversight is critical in addressing AI’s limitations

AI translation tools have undeniably advanced, but they still have significant limitations that necessitate human oversight. Here are some of the most critical challenges of AI in translation:

1. Mistranslations with serious consequences

AI tools can create mistranslations with serious consequences, especially in healthcare and law. Accurate translation of patient info, dosage instructions, or legal terms is vital. Mistakes here could lead to incorrect treatments, legal issues, or regulatory problems, risking lives and businesses. Human oversight is crucial for accuracy and safety.

2. Inability to understand evolving language trends

Language is always changing, with new slang and expressions constantly emerging, especially from social media. Human translators adapt to these shifts faster than AI, which often lags behind. This quick adaptation is crucial in fields like marketing and media, where relevance is key. AI struggles with evolving language, so its translations may not connect well with modern audiences.

3. Difficulty with ambiguity

Many languages have words with multiple meanings, and AI often struggles to pick the right one without context. For example, “bank” can mean a financial institution or a river’s edge. Without context, AI might choose the wrong meaning, leading to confusion. Human translators use intuition and context to ensure accurate and clear translations, avoiding costly mistakes.

4. Lack of cultural sensitivity

AI can’t grasp cultural nuances, which are essential in content like marketing, literature, and PR. Human translators ensure content is culturally appropriate, resonating with audiences and avoiding offense. For example, an ad slogan might work well in one culture but be confusing or offensive in another. Only human translators can adapt content to be effective and respectful across cultures.

5. Limited ability to convey emotional tone

Language conveys emotions, intent, and tone, not just words. AI tools may translate words accurately but often miss the original emotional tone, especially in literature, poetry, and marketing. A heartfelt message might come across as robotic, losing its impact. Human translators capture the intended emotion, ensuring the message resonates with the audience.

6. Challenges with specialized terminology

In fields like law, medicine, engineering, and finance, precise translation of specialized terms is essential. AI tools may struggle with complex, industry-specific vocabulary. While AI can help with initial drafts, only expert human translators ensure correct, consistent terminology. Misinterpreting a technical term could lead to misunderstandings, compliance problems, or safety risks.

7. Contextual awareness

AI lacks true contextual understanding. While it has improved through machine learning, it still can’t match human comprehension. Context is crucial for translating idioms, metaphors, and unique phrases. Human translators use their experience, cultural knowledge, and context to ensure translations capture the original message accurately.

8. Ethical considerations and bias

AI systems, trained on large datasets, can sometimes learn and reflect biases, leading to biased or inappropriate translations on sensitive topics like gender, race, or culture. Human translators can spot and correct these biases, ensuring translations are fair and sensitive. Relying only on AI risks perpetuating stereotypes or causing unintentional harm.

Conclusion

AI has transformed translation, making it faster and more cost-effective, especially for basic tasks and large volumes of text. However, human translators remain essential, bringing cultural understanding, emotional intelligence, and the ability to convey the true essence of the original message. At Tomedes, we combine AI’s efficiency with human expertise to offer tailored language solutions that meet unique needs. 

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Empowering Interpreters: The Courage and Stamina Behind the Job

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Interpreters deserve compliments
What every interpreter should tell themselves
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I’ve just completed a four-day interpreting assignment for the WIKIMANIA 2024 event in Katowice, Poland, organized by FOSSASIA. I had the honor of interpreting via streaming at the Ohrid Spanish room. The event was magnificent covering many interesting topics from technology, community health, research, legal & advocacy, governance & strategy, and so on. Useful information related to all the project pages on MetaWiki such as Wikimedia, Meta, MediaWiki, Wikimedia Commons, Wikipedia, Wiktionary, Wikinews, Wikiquote, Wikibooks, Wikiversity, Wikisource, Wikivoyage, Wikijunior, Wikispecies, Wikifunctions, Incubator, and Sep11wiki.

After the four-day interpreting experience I shared with one of my closest friends, Sole, and with Diego, a professional young colleague from Chile, I could not help but wonder how we managed to do that.

I never get tired of telling people that interpreters are gifted people who do an extraordinary job. Diverse skills and qualities required for the job: it takes courage to sometimes face the unknown. It takes stamina to keep up with the speakers’ pace. It takes determination to do it right. It takes perseverance to keep doing it no matter what goes around. It takes hard work and preparation to reduce the occurrence of surprises. It takes resilience to overcome the challenges ahead. It takes so many skills and traits that each of us should remind ourselves over and over again that we are f* awesome!

My fellow interpreters, bravo!

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Bridging Language Barriers: The Art and Humor of Translation and Attestation

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Professional translation agency in Türkiye
How to have your documents translated and attested for Dubai.

[Sponsor’s guest post]

In a world where language can be as tricky as deciphering ancient hieroglyphs, Professional translation agencies stand as your linguistic Rosetta Stone. From translating medical jargon to legalese, they’ve got you covered—and they do it with a smile!

The Serious Business of Translation

Imagine you’re at a Turkish bazaar, trying to buy a rug but ending up with a goat. Miscommunication can lead to hilarious yet frustrating situations. Turkish Translation Agency ensures you get the right rug (or whatever you’re after) by providing precise translations. Their certified translators work with languages as diverse as Turkish and Swahili, adhering to the highest standards to ensure your documents are spot-on.

The Magic of Attestation

Need your diploma validated in Dubai? Or perhaps your marriage certificate authenticated in Saudi Arabia? Think of attestation as the international stamp of approval, including apostille in Turkey. Turkish Translation & Attestation Agency makes this process as smooth as a perfectly brewed Turkish coffee. They handle the nitty-gritty of embassy requirements, so you don’t have to sweat the details.

Notarized and Certified Translations: No Joke!

Here’s a little joke: Why did the document go to the notary? To get stamped, of course! But in all seriousness, certified and notarized translations are crucial for legal and official documents. Turkish Translation & Attestation Agency ensures these translations meet global standards, whether it’s for an Apostille or consulate verification.

Fast and Furious (But in a Good Way)

Speed is essential when you need a translation yesterday. Turkish Translation & Attestation Agency offers a lightning-fast turnaround without compromising on quality. Their efficient process, including multiple stages of proofreading, guarantees that your translations are delivered error-free and on time.

Why Trust Turkish Translation Agency?

  1. Certified Professionals: Accredited and experienced.
  2. Affordability: High-quality services that won’t break the bank.
  3. Speedy Delivery: Quick, reliable, and accurate.
  4. Multilingual Mastery: Expertise in numerous languages.

In the end, navigating the world of translation and attestation doesn’t have to be like translating an alien language. With Turkish Translation & Attestation Agency, you can rest assured your documents are in capable hands. So, whether you’re translating a love letter or a legal document, remember: they’ve got your back, one word at a time.

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Unveiling the Power of Certified Translations: A Guide for Businesses

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In today’s interconnected global marketplace, effective communication is the key to success. For businesses navigating international waters, the importance of accurate and reliable translations cannot be overstated. This is where certified translations come into play, serving as the linchpin for seamless global interactions.

Understanding the Need for Certification:

Certified translations go beyond mere linguistic conversion; they bear the stamp of approval from a qualified professional attesting to their accuracy. This becomes especially crucial in legal, business, and official documentation where precision is paramount. From contracts and patents to regulatory filings, the consequences of inaccuracies can be far-reaching.

Ensuring Accuracy in Global Ventures:

Imagine the scenario: your company is on the verge of a major international deal, and contracts are being translated. A slight error in translation could lead to misunderstandings, legal complications, and financial losses. Certified translations act as a safety net, providing businesses the assurance that their documents are accurately translated and free from any errors that could jeopardize their ventures.

Navigating Regulatory Compliance:

Different countries have distinct regulatory requirements, and compliance is non-negotiable. Whether you’re expanding your business overseas or dealing with international clients, certified translations ensure that your documents meet the necessary legal standards. This is particularly crucial in industries such as healthcare, finance, and law, where the stakes are high, and adherence to regulations is paramount.

Global Expansion Made Seamless:

For businesses eyeing global expansion, language barriers are a common stumbling block. Certified translations pave the way for a smoother expansion process by ensuring that your marketing materials, product documentation, and other business collateral are accurately translated while maintaining the intended message and brand integrity.

Conclusion:

As businesses continue to explore new horizons, the power of certified translations emerges as a critical factor in their success. By investing in professional translation services backed by certifications, businesses can unlock the full potential of global collaboration, confident that their messages are accurately conveyed across linguistic and cultural boundaries.

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Horoscope for translators and interpreters: Aquarius

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horoscope for trnaslators and interpreters
Traits of Aquarian translators and interpreters

Aquarius (January 21st – February 19th)

Aquarian people are assertive to the core, they will not change their minds unless contrasted with evidence. They are quite original and unique. They are independent, humanitarian, and invested in campaigns related to social justice.

Aquarius translator: You are clever and direct. You enjoy the solitude of being a freelance translator because you like being on your own. You are independent and love flying solo. You have a soft spot for topics related to politics, social justice, and journalism.

Aquarius interpreter: You are an outdoor person, and you love traveling, so interpreting in unconventional settings is a turn-on for you. You adore being called on for interpreting jobs related to protecting the environment and saving the world.

Are you an Aquarius translator or interpreter? Do you know one? Buy and send this card to your colleagues to recognize their unique traits.

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The Art of Translation: Navigating Cultural Nuances and Beyond

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Professional translators are a powerful tool
Translation breaks down cultural barriers

[Guest Post]

Beyond the literal conversion of words, professional translators are entrusted with the delicate task of navigating cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and linguistic subtleties. Join us as we unravel the intricate world of translation, exploring its role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and transcending linguistic boundaries.

The Complex Dance of Cultural Nuances: A Symphony of Understanding

Translation is an intricate dance, that transcends linguistic borders to reveal the underlying harmony of cultural nuances. It’s more than transcribing words; it involves deciphering the cultural context that encapsulates those words. Idiomatic expressions, cultural references, and even humor are deeply embedded in the fabric of languages. Understanding and accurately conveying these nuances require not only linguistic proficiency, but also cultural fluency – the ability to interpret the unspoken layers of meaning unique to each culture.

The Impact of Cultural Accuracy on Global Communication: Bridging Worlds

In a world where businesses operate on a global scale, the importance of cultural accuracy cannot be overstated. Misinterpretation of cultural nuances can lead to misunderstandings, inadvertently offending audiences, and damaging relationships. Conversely, when handled adeptly, translation becomes a powerful tool for developing positive connections, breaking down cultural barriers, and opening doors to international collaboration. 

The Challenge of Idiomatic Expressions: Walking the Linguistic Tightrope

Idioms, proverbs, and colloquialisms are linguistic treasures that encapsulate the essence of a culture. However, they pose a unique challenge for translators. A direct translation may not capture the intended meaning, and attempting to translate word-for-word can result in confusion. Professional translators, armed with a deep understanding of both source and target cultures, navigate this linguistic tightrope, ensuring that the essence of the message remains intact. 

Strategies for Businesses: Navigating the Cultural Mosaic

For businesses aiming for global success, integrating cultural awareness into their translation strategy is paramount. 

Choose Accredited and Specialized Translators:

Opt for translators with recognized certifications in the languages relevant to your business needs.

Seek out specialists in your industry, ensuring they have a deep understanding of sector-specific terminology and nuances.

Prioritize Cultural Fluency:

Look for translators who are not only bilingual but also culturally fluent in both the source and target languages.

Assess their understanding of cultural nuances, idioms, and local customs to ensure accurate and culturally sensitive translations.

Establish Clear Communication Channels:

Foster open communication between your team and translators. Clarify project’s objectives, target audience, and any specific cultural considerations.

Create a feedback loop to address questions promptly and refine translations to meet evolving needs.

Provide Comprehensive Context:

Offer translators detailed background information about your business, products, and services.

Share the context of the translation project, including its purpose, target audience, and any cultural nuances that should be considered.

Build Long-Term Relationships:

Cultivate ongoing relationships with a select group of translators to ensure continuity and consistency in your communications.

Working with a dedicated team fosters a deeper understanding of your brand, industry, and specific translation requirements.

Embrace Localization Practices:

Understand the importance of localization to reach diverse markets. Tailor content to suit cultural preferences, regional variations, and linguistic nuances.

Localization goes beyond translation, considering factors such as date formats, units of measurement, and cultural references.

Stay Informed About Cultural Trends:

Stay abreast of cultural trends, social nuances, and evolving language usage in the regions where your business operates.

This awareness ensures that your translations remain relevant and resonate with your target audience.

Incorporate Diversity in Your Translation Team:

Foster diversity within your translation team to reflect the cultural richness of your target markets.

A diverse team can provide unique insights and perspectives that contribute to more nuanced and culturally sensitive translations.

By implementing these practical tips and strategies, businesses can not only choose the right translation partners but also facilitate effective collaboration that goes beyond language proficiency, ensuring culturally synergistic and impactful global communication.

Conclusion: Crafting a Global Narrative Through Culturally Proficient Translation

As businesses embark on their global journeys, the art of translation is poised to weave a tapestry of connection, ensuring that messages resonate authentically across linguistic and cultural landscapes. In the vast expanse of global communication, cultural proficiency becomes the compass guiding businesses toward successful collaborations, building bridges that transcend language to create a shared narrative of understanding and unity. Join us in celebrating the art of translation, where precision and cultural sensitivity converge to shape a future of interconnected possibilities.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Online Translation Service Provider

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How to choose a good translation provider
Helpful tips for choosing the right translation provider

[Guest Post]

In today’s globalized world, effective communication across language barriers is essential for businesses and individuals alike. Online professional translation providers offer a convenient and efficient solution to bridge these linguistic gaps. However, with numerous options available, selecting the right online translation service provider can be a daunting task. In this guest post, we will explore key tips to consider when choosing the right online translation service provider, ensuring accurate and reliable translations that meet your specific needs. 

1- Determine Your Translation Requirements:

    Clearly define the languages you need translation for, the volume of content, and the subject matter. Are you looking for general translation services or specialized expertise in technical, legal, medical, or marketing fields? Knowing your specific needs will help you find a provider with relevant experience and expertise.

    2- Look for an Expert Translation Team:

      Behind every successful online translation service provider is an expert translation team.  Ensure that the provider has a team of professional translators who are not only fluent in both source and target languages but also possess subject matter expertise in your specific industry. This expertise ensures accurate and contextually appropriate translations that capture the nuances and technicalities of your content. Look for certifications such as ISO 9001 or ISO 17100, which demonstrate their commitment to quality. Additionally, inquire about their proofreading and editing procedures, as well as the measures taken to ensure consistency and accuracy across multiple projects.

      3- Specialized Services:

      Consider the range of specialized services offered by the online translation service provider. For example, if you require a sworn document translation, or even localization services ensure that the provider can accommodate your specific needs. Medical, legal, technical, and marketing translations often require a deep understanding of the subject matter and industry-specific terminology. Choosing a provider with expertise in your field ensures accurate translations and avoids potential misunderstandings.

      4- Technology and Tools:

      Advancements in translation technology have revolutionized the industry, improving efficiency and accuracy. When selecting an online translation service provider, inquire about the technology and tools they utilize. Advanced translation tools, such as translation memory and terminology management systems, can enhance efficiency and consistency. Additionally, ensure that the provider has robust security protocols to protect your confidential information. Encryption, secure file transfer protocols, and non-disclosure agreements are essential aspects to consider when it comes to data security.

      5- Pricing and Turnaround Times:

      While cost and turnaround times should not be the sole deciding factors, they are important considerations. Compare pricing models among different online translation service providers, ensuring that the pricing structure aligns with your budget and requirements.

      6- Customer Reviews and Testimonials:

      Reading customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the reputation and reliability of an online translation service provider. Search for reviews on independent platforms or ask the provider for references from previous clients. Positive feedback and recommendations from satisfied customers are strong indicators of a reputable and trustworthy provider. 

      7- Confidentiality and Data Security:

      When sharing sensitive or confidential information for translation, it is vital to choose a provider that prioritizes data security. Inquire about their data protection policies, encryption practices, and confidentiality agreements. A reputable provider will have stringent security measures in place to safeguard your documents and ensure confidentiality throughout the translation process.

      Choosing the right online translation service provider is a critical decision that can significantly impact your communication efforts and business outcomes. Remember that a trusted translation partner can become a valuable asset, facilitating smooth communication across languages and contributing to your global success. By embracing innovative technologies, focusing on industry expertise, and providing comprehensive localization solutions, these services are breaking down language barriers and facilitating global connections. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and find a provider that delivers accurate, reliable, and high-quality translations.

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      Podcasts for interpreters: The Complete Interpreter by Sophie Llewellyn Smith

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      Resources for interpreters
      Tools for interpreters: podcasts

      The Complete Interpreter by Sophie Llewellyn Smith is a podcast to help spoken language conference or public service interpreters stand out in a competitive market by improving their skills, mindset, and marketing.

      The different episodes of the podcast include tips for avoiding procrastination, being concise in simultaneous interpretation, refreshing simultaneous interpreting skills, co-working, and improving your performance in the booth.

      Check out this fantastic resource here.

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      Season’s greetings for translators

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      Christmas card for translators 2023
      Season’s greetings for translators. Christmas tree 2023

      Season’s greetings for translators. Christmas tree 2023

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      Christmas is around the corner, and it’s time to exchange greetings with your friends, family, colleagues, and clients. What could top this Christmas tree for translators? You can send this card to your clients and friends to wish them a merry Christmas and remind them you are open for business in 2023.

      This Christmas card is a customized marketing tool that can help you promote your services for the upcoming year and share your love while doing so.

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      Why are interpreters the best of friends?

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      Interpreters pay close attention
      Interpreters pay close attention to what speakers say.
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      Listening is the first step in the actual interpreting process. The interpreter must hear and understand what the speaker is saying to deliver the equivalent message in the target language. So, the first question you should ask yourself if you consider interpreting as a professional career would be, “Am I a good listener?”.

      Being a good listener is not an easy task. It is not just about understanding the actual words, but rather the idea the speaker is trying to convey. This cartoon is a fun way to highlight the many superpowers that, in my opinion, interpreters have. I’m in awe every time I see them in action, and having the opportunity to do that for a living is just a dream come true.

      If you admire your fellow interpreters or your interpreting service provider, send them this cartoon to let them know.

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      If you need interpreters for your upcoming conference, meeting, or workshop, contact @tiendadeingles on Instagram or email tiendadeingles @ gmail.com