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interpreter
/ɪnˈtɜːrprɪtər/
person translating speech
The interpreter translated the diplomat's speech into three languages.
The interpreter converted the diplomat's spoken words into multiple languages for the audience.
formal
A person who translates spoken language from one language to another, typically during conversations or speeches.
At the UN conference, the interpreter conveyed the president's remarks in real time.
The interpreter rendered the president's speech into the delegates' languages simultaneously.
She works as a freelance interpreter for international business meetings.
She provides oral translation services for professionals during cross-border negotiations.
Interpreters work with spoken or signed language, unlike translators who work with written text. They may specialize in conference, legal, medical, or sign language interpreting.
Technology
technical
A computer program that translates high-level programming code into machine code or another programming language.
The Python interpreter executes the script line by line.
The Python interpreter converts the human-readable code into instructions the computer can run.
Common in programming contexts, e.g., Python interpreter, Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Collocations
conference interpretertranslator for meetingssimultaneous interpretertranslator working in real timecourt interpreterlegal translator for trials
Synonyms
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Distinguish interpreter vs. translator
Remember: Interpreters work with spoken/signed language in real time, while translators work with written text.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Always clarify whether 'interpreter' refers to a language professional or a software tool to avoid confusion.
Word Origin
From Latin 'interpres' (meaning 'negotiator' or 'explainer'), combining 'inter-' (between) and 'pretium' (price, value). The word evolved to mean someone who explains or translates between parties.
Usage Notes
Use 'interpreter' for spoken or signed language translation. For written texts, use 'translator.' In computing, it refers to software that executes code directly.
Word Breakdown
inter-
between
prefix-pret-
price/value/explain
root-er
person who does
suffixEnglish Dictionary