interpreter
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interpreter
A person whose job is to translate spoken texts orally and immediately from one language into another.
Bei der internationalen Konferenz war für jeden Redner ein Dolmetscher anwesend.
At the international conference, an interpreter was present for each speaker.
The noun 'der Dolmetscher' (the interpreter) belongs to the verb 'dolmetschen' (to interpret). When a person interprets, they translate spoken language orally from one language into another.
Er arbeitet seit zehn Jahren als Dolmetscher für die Vereinten Nationen.
He has worked as an interpreter for the United Nations for ten years.
Common verbs used with 'Dolmetscher' (interpreter) are 'brauchen' (to need), 'engagieren' (to hire), or 'hinzuziehen' (to call in / consult). You often need one in specific situations, for example 'bei einer Konferenz' (at a conference) or 'vor Gericht' (in court).
Für die Gerichtsverhandlung mussten wir einen Dolmetscher engagieren.
We had to hire an interpreter for the court hearing.
This meaning is figurative and is often used in a literary or philosophical context. A 'Dolmetscher' (interpreter) here does not mediate between languages, but rather conveys complex ideas, feelings, or moods.
Der Künstler sieht sich als Dolmetscher der menschlichen Ängste.
The artist sees himself as an interpreter of human fears.
translator
'der Übersetzer' and 'der Dolmetscher' both refer to people who mediate between languages. The most important difference is the form of language. An 'Übersetzer' usually works with written texts, for example contracts, letters, or books. A 'Dolmetscher' translates spoken language directly and orally, for example in a conversation, at a doctor's appointment, or at a conference. The words are often confused because both have to do with translation. Memory aid: written language is usually handled by the 'Übersetzer'; spoken language by the 'Dolmetscher'.
Beim Arzttermin brauchen wir einen Dolmetscher, weil der Patient kaum Deutsch spricht.
We need an interpreter at the doctor's appointment because the patient speaks hardly any German.
Am Montag hat der Übersetzer die Bewerbungsunterlagen ins Deutsche übertragen.
On Monday, the translator translated the application documents into German.