Last night I had the privilege of attending one of the four Chinese Language Workshops that were being presented as professional development for our Chinese Interpreters. I wasn’t attending due to my proficiency in Cantonese or Mandarin (I barely speak English), I was there in a production capacity. The courses are being held in Wellington, but through the magic of technology, we also had a virtual attendee; one of our Invercargill interpreters. My job was to ensure that she could view the presentation and lecture given by our Training Manager, as well as ensuring that she could participate in group discussions with the other participants.
You might think that being an English speaker at a Chinese language workshop might get a bit tedious and boring, but I found it completely fascinating!
As I am an immigrant to NZ, there are many phrases and idioms that I was not familiar with at first:
“Shout you a drink.”
“Sweet as”
“Pork pies” (I just learned this one a couple days ago)
…and don’t get me started on “Bring a Plate!” It was difficult enough for me understanding these things, and I speak English! Now add to this the complication of coming at it from a completely different, non-Latin based, language, where their culture played just as strong a role in the development of their language as NZ culture played in the development of its language. This is what I find amazing.
During the workshop, there were many spirited discussions about best methods for interpreting from English to Mandarin/Cantonese:
…the interpretation can change the emphasis from the noun to the verb.
…you wouldn’t say it that way in Cantonese.
…we already have a phrase for that.
…don’t focus on interpreting word for word. Instead, say it the Chinese way.
Luckily, almost all of the discussions that were taking place were in English, so it gave me some insight into the challenges and difficulties that occur when interpreting from one language to another. It also gave me insight into the interpreters themselves. Others who may have been listening to some of these animated discussions may have thought that some of interpreter’s arguments were merely pedantic. But it occurred to me that the reason that these debates are taking place is because of the value placed on ensuring that interpreting is complete and accurate as is possible; ensuring that not only the words are interpreted properly, but also the meaning behind the words.
All-in-all, I was captivated by the evening’s proceedings and look forward to attending the remaining two workshops.
