What is the best way to translate orally Spanish to English?

Question

Hi, So I learned many languages at school. I have to translate for a big audience from Spanish to English. My mother tongue is Spanish, I'm pretty good with English too, but feel a little afraid to translate from Spanish to English because of the difference of the languages, and all of that. I'm more of a Spanish speaker Can anyone help me with some advice, tips or something, I don't wanna look like an idiot.

thanks!

Answer 1

The best free online translator I know is Babelfish:

http://babelfish.yahoo.com/  

Answer 2

The conditions are in your favor, Seya, because one of the most important things to consider when translating is (1) understanding the message in the original language clearly. Also please pay special attention to the following:

2. (After understanding the message clearly...) Your translation is an interpretation, not a word-for-word translation and sometimes not even a sentence-for-sentence translation. Sometimes you'll translate a couple of sentences as only one, while keeping the original message, of course.

3. The timing is important, that is, when and how fast you can start to translate (Not how fast you talk!), to make it seem more natural to the audience. To make it more manageable, talk to the person who will make the speech (the speaker) and agree on how often he/she will pause so that you can start translating.

4. Know both the speaker and the audience. It is important to know as much as you can about their backgrounds (countries of origin, political/sports interests, religions, ... culture). Some words would seem offensive as they're translated depending on the culture of your audience.

5. Try no to use slang words or expressions, regardless of how much the speaker uses them in his language (Spanish, in this case). Use standard English as much as possible so that everyone understands the message.

5. Sometimes -Well, seldom- you won't translate, but explain what the speaker is talking about. For example, when the speaker tells a joke based on his own culture or current event of his country/state of origin, it may not make sense or be funny for most of your audience. You might need to say "He's telling a joke". The audience will decide whether to laugh or not to show respect.

6. Last -but not least- if possible, do something funny right before the speech begins so that you get your audience to smile or laugh. It will make you and your audience feel more relaxed. For example, if the speaker says "Good evening!", translate it and say something else and suddenly stop, apologize and tell the audience that you're so nervous that you could even read his mind and translate in advance. Well, this may not work, but you do think about something funny.

Good luck!!!

Answer 3

http://www.freetranslation.com