Interpreter Job Aid – Brief Scripts for Unknown Words or Concepts Page 1 © 2011 CyraCom International, Inc. (rev. 10.19.11)

Interpreter Job Aid

Brief Scripts for Unknown Terms or Concepts

Summary

When an interpreter encounters unfamiliar terms or concepts and cannot provide an accurate interpretation, they should adhere to the following procedures depending

upon the situation. In any of these situations, be sure to notify the English speaker and LEP person about what you are doing so that everyone understands what is happening (See Roles of the Interpreter).

1. Dictionary Check. If the term is not understood, request a moment to look up a word. If the term is understood, then a meaning-for-meaning interpretation can generally be provided:

“[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter needs a moment to look up a word.”

2. Repetition. If the interpreter is unsure if they understood what was said, they may ask the English speaker or the LEP person to repeat a word or phrase:

“[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter requires a repetition, could you please repeat

the last word/phrase?” [Be as specific as possible when asking what is to be repeated].

3. Verification. If the interpreter is unsure if they understood what was said, they may ask for verification:

“The interpreter would like to verify, “[Ma’am, Sir] did you say [word or phrase]?”

4. Clarification/Explanation of Terms. If the interpreter is unsure of the word or phrase, and needs a clarification or explanation in other terms, they may say:

“[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter is unfamiliar with a term used; to remain

accurate, the interpreter will need a clarification.”

Important Note

When requesting any type of clarification, please keep in mind that a pleasant

tone of voice and proper delivery will reduce client frustration considerably. Conversely, a monotone or unpleasant tone will rapidly increase client frustration.

Interpreter Job Aid – Brief Scripts for Unknown Words or Concepts Page 2 © 2011 CyraCom International, Inc. (rev. 10.19.11)

Brief Scripts for Unknown Terms or Concepts

Dictionary Check:

“[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter needs a moment to look up a word.”

Repetition:

“[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter requires a repetition, could you please repeat the last word/phrase?” [Be as specific as possible when asking what is to be repeated].

Verification:

“The interpreter would like to verify, “[Ma’am, Sir] did you say [word or phrase]?”

Clarification/Explanation of Terms: “[Ma’am, Sir] the interpreter is unfamiliar with a term used; to remain accurate, the interpreter will need a

clarification.”