Why is it crucial for interpreters to have a strong command of both English and ASL?

Having a strong command of both English and American Sign Language (ASL) is essential for interpreters primarily to ensure accurate and effective interpretation. The interpreter’s role is to facilitate communication between individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who use spoken language. Mastery of both languages enables interpreters to convey the intended message, tone, and nuances of the conversation accurately.

This skill set facilitates not only the correct lexical choices but also the appropriate use of grammar, cultural references, and contextual meaning inherent in both languages. Interpreters must also be able to navigate the subtleties of each language to provide an equivalent message that maintains the original intent and emotional content. Without this proficiency, messages can be misinterpreted or lost altogether, which could impair communication and result in misunderstandings.

The other options, while they may involve aspects of an interpreter’s professional life, are not the primary focus of why language proficiency is critical in the interpreting process. For instance, negotiating contracts or performing administrative tasks are important for managing an interpreting business but do not directly relate to the core roles of interpretation.