Transcription is turning spoken words into written words. Translation is changing words from one language to another. They are two different skills often used in language and media work.
What Does Transcription Mean?
Transcription means writing down what someone says. It changes audio or video into text. People use it for interviews, meetings, or podcasts.
What Is an Example of Transcription?
If you listen to a video in English and type exactly what the speaker says in English, that is transcription. The words do not change language. You just write what you hear.
What Does Translation Mean?
Translation means changing words from one language to another. For example, turning a book written in Spanish into English. It helps people understand texts they can’t read in the original language.
What Is an Example of Translation?
If someone says something in French and you write it in English, that’s translation. You must know both languages to do it well. The meaning must stay the same in both.
How Are Transcription and Translation Used?
Transcription is used in legal work, schools, or TV shows with subtitles.
Translation helps in books, travel, and global business. Sometimes, people use both in one project.
Can a Person Do Both Transcription and Translation?
Yes, but they are different jobs. A transcriptionist needs good listening and typing skills. A translator must understand two or more languages well.
Tools for Transcription and Translation
There are many tools to help with both. Transcription tools include Otter.ai and VOMO.
Translation tools include Google Translate and DeepL.
Some AI tools do both jobs.
Why Is It Important to Know the Difference?
Knowing the difference helps you choose the right service. If you need spoken words typed, choose transcription. If you need language changed, choose translation.
Who Uses Transcription and Translation?
Transcription is used by teachers, students, doctors, and journalists.
Translation is used by travelers, writers, companies, and language learners. These services help people work across languages and media.
Are There Jobs in Transcription and Translation?
Yes, both can be full-time or freelance jobs. Transcriptionists are needed in healthcare, law, and media. Translators are needed in publishing, business, and online content.
Final Thoughts: Transcription vs. Translation
Transcription is writing down words in the same language. Translation is changing words into a new language. Both help people understand and share information.
