If you’ve read our blog on the difference between interpreting and translation in spoken languages, you know there’s more to these terms than meets the eye. Thanks to your fantastic feedback, many of you asked how these concepts apply to sign languages. Before we explore the unique nuances of interpreting and translating in sign language, let’s first debunk two common myths.
Sign Languages Are Not Universal
The belief that a single, universal sign language is shared by the Deaf and hard of hearing community worldwide is a common misconception. In reality, sign languages are as diverse as spoken languages, each shaped by its unique region and culture. For example:
- American Sign Language (ASL) is primarily used in the United States.
- British Sign Language (BSL) is unique to the UK and differs significantly from ASL.
- French Sign Language (langue des signes française, LSF) is native to France.
- Quebec Sign Language (Langue des signes Québécoise, LSQ) is widely used in parts of Canada.
The key takeaway is that every sign language has its own grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances, making each a fully developed language in its own right.
American Sign Language Is Not “English on the Hands”
Another myth is that sign languages mirror their spoken counterparts. This isn’t true. For example, ASL has its own grammar, making it a distinct language from English. Beyond grammar, sign languages rely on facial expressions, body movements, and spatial relationships to convey meaning. Non-manual markers, such as raised eyebrows, can signal questions, while changes in movement, handshapes, and orientation can alter a sign’s meaning, similar to verb conjugations in spoken languages.
These elements highlight the complexity of sign languages and the skill required of interpreters and translators to ensure communication is accurate and culturally respectful. In recognizing sign language as its own language, we begin to comprehend the vital importance of interpreting and translation services.
What Is Sign Language Interpreting?
Sign language interpreters bridge communication between spoken and signed languages in real time. For instance, in a conversation between a hearing person and a Deaf person, the interpreter:
- Converts spoken words into signs for the Deaf individual.
- Voices the Deaf individual’s signed language for the hearing person.
This real-time process can occur in person or virtually. If you’re planning a live event and require language services, hiring an interpreter ensures seamless communication for Deaf and hard of hearing attendees.
Interpreting Between Different Sign Languages
Interpreting between two distinct sign languages is a highly specialized skill that requires fluency in both languages and deep cultural competency within the communities they represent. For instance, an interpreter may facilitate communication between a Deaf individual using American Sign Language (ASL) and another using British Sign Language (BSL). This process often involves the expertise of a Deaf Interpreter, who expertly navigates differences in grammar, syntax, and regional expressions to ensure the message is conveyed accurately and respectfully.
What Is Sign Language Translation?
Translation traditionally focuses on converting written text into sign language. Unlike interpreting, this process is not conducted in real-time. For example, a Deaf person might request a legal document be translated into ASL to better understand its complex contents.
Translation in the realm of sign languages isn’t limited to written text — it can extend to other forms of media. For example, at popular attractions like museums, audio guide tours are often inaccessible to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. To address this, the content of an audio tour can be translated into sign language and accessed through a QR code that links to a video on a smartphone or distributed device. While this example involves spoken content rather than written text, it remains a translation process since it doesn’t occur in real-time.
Why Video is Key for Sign Language Translations
Unlike written translations between spoken languages, sign language translations are inherently visual and require a different delivery format — video. These video translations can be customized and integrated in various ways to accommodate the needs of your audience.
For example, when translating a training video for onboarding new employees, a sign language video translation can be added via an inset window known as Picture-in-Picture (PIP). This allows a Deaf hire to simultaneously follow the company policies displayed on-screen and the ASL translation in the PIP window, creating a seamless and accessible learning experience.
At Inclusive Communication Services, we use the term Sign Language Video Translation for this service — and now you know why! The visual nature of sign languages means translations are delivered via video. Moreover, sign language translation extends beyond written text. Consider the range of digital content available today, from podcasts to webinars. While these materials are easily accessible to hearing audiences in their native languages, they often exclude native sign language users. Sign language video translation bridges this gap, ensuring inclusive access to educational and professional content.
Understanding the Differences Between Interpreting and Translation
Sign language interpreting and translation serve distinct purposes, yet both are vital for effective communication within Deaf and hard of hearing communities. The table below highlights the key differences between these two accessibility services.
| Topic of Comparison | Interpreting | Translation |
| Definition | Real-time conversion of spoken language to signed language and vice versa. | Conversion of written or audio content into signed language, delivered via video. |
| Timing | Happens in real time during conversations, events, or meetings. | Not completed in real time. |
| Focus | Facilitates live communication between individuals. | Ensures accessibility to written, audio, or digital content. |
| Output Format | In-person or virtual interpreting during the event. | Video format, often integrated into existing content. |
| Complexity | Demands instant decision-making and fluency in grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances of both languages. | Allows time for research and refinement to ensure accuracy and accessibility. |
| Examples of Use | A Deaf individual interacting with a hearing person in a meeting. | Translating a legal document written in English to American Sign Language. |
| Examples of Use | Live events such as webinars or conferences. | Adding sign language translations to an orientation training video. |
Accessibility Matters!
Access to information and communication is a fundamental human right. If you’re ready to make your organization more inclusive, we’re here to help! Our Accessible Media Services team is dedicated to supporting your translation needs, and we also provide interpreting services for both live and virtual events in any language — spoken or signed.
Reach out today, and let’s begin the year by working toward greater accessibility and inclusivity.
