Which of the following is NOT a sight translation guideline?

Which of the following is NOT a sight translation guideline?

• A. Read the document all the way through.
• B. Ask for clarification.
• C. Translate exactly what is written.
• D. Provide only a written translation in addition to oral.

Answer: (D)

In sight translation, the goal is to convey the meaning of a written document aloud in real time. You read enough to grasp the overall content, then render a natural, accurate oral version in the target language, focusing on meaning and readability rather than a perfect word-for-word copy. It’s common to skim the document first, pause to clarify any confusing parts, and adjust terminology to fit the listener’s understanding. Translating exactly what is written isn’t the aim, because direct word-for-word rendering can mislead when idioms, legal terms, or cultural nuances don’t map cleanly between languages; the emphasis is on clear communication of intent and essential details. The option stating to provide only a written translation in addition to the oral conflicts with this approach. Sight translation centers on an immediate oral rendering, not on producing a separate, on-the-spot written translation. A written translation can be produced later if needed, but it isn’t the standard expectation for sight translation.

In sight translation, the goal is to convey the meaning of a written document aloud in real time. You read enough to grasp the overall content, then render a natural, accurate oral version in the target language, focusing on meaning and readability rather than a perfect word-for-word copy. It’s common to skim the document first, pause to clarify any confusing parts, and adjust terminology to fit the listener’s understanding. Translating exactly what is written isn’t the aim, because direct word-for-word rendering can mislead when idioms, legal terms, or cultural nuances don’t map cleanly between languages; the emphasis is on clear communication of intent and essential details.

The option stating to provide only a written translation in addition to the oral conflicts with this approach. Sight translation centers on an immediate oral rendering, not on producing a separate, on-the-spot written translation. A written translation can be produced later if needed, but it isn’t the standard expectation for sight translation.